1. Basil
Basil: The Herb of Love for Valentine’s Day

When you think of Valentine’s Day, roses and chocolates probably come to mind, but have you ever considered Valentine’s Day Herbs? Well, did you know that basil is a symbol of love? This humble herb is more than just a kitchen staple; it’s steeped in romantic history. It is even regarded by many cultures as an aphrodisiac!
Basil’s reputation as a love-enhancer isn’t new. Its bright, invigorating aroma is believed to awaken the senses and stimulate feelings of passion. In Roman times, basil was considered a symbol of love. Beyond its use in cooking, basil’s scent was thought to unite the body and spirit in harmony.
In Moldavian folklore, basil plays a starring role in matters of the heart. Legend has it that if a young man accepts a gift of basil from a young woman, he is destined to fall in love with her. So be careful walking past the herb section in the supermarket guys!
Even in modern times, basil retains its symbolic connection to love and fertility. Its presence in the herb world is more than culinary; it’s a nod to the timeless allure of romance. So, this Valentine’s Day, consider incorporating basil into your celebrations. Whether it’s a lovingly prepared pesto dish or a bouquet garnished with fresh sprigs, basil might just set the mood for love.
2. Oregano
Oregano: The Herb of Love and Prosperity

While oregano might be best known today as a star ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, its roots in romance and mysticism stretch back centuries. This humble herb carries a legacy of love, joy, and good fortune, making it an ideal addition to your Valentine’s Day traditions.
In Ancient Greece, oregano held a sacred place in the realm of love. It was said to be the herb of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. According to legend, Aphrodite created oregano to infuse her garden with joy and happiness. Greeks often used oregano in wedding ceremonies, weaving it into garlands and crowns to bless newlyweds with love and harmony.
Oregano’s reputation didn’t stop there. By Elizabethan times, it had become a symbol of good luck and prosperity. People believed that carrying or growing oregano could ward off negative energy and attract abundance. Some even tucked sprigs of oregano under their pillows to inspire happy dreams and strengthen bonds of affection.
Beyond its enchanting history, oregano’s warm, earthy aroma is said to promote feelings of comfort and connection. Its use in cooking today could be seen as a continuation of its ancient purpose: bringing people together around a table, creating joy and unity.
This Valentine’s Day, why not honor oregano’s legacy? Add it to your favorite dishes or use it as a fragrant garnish to your romantic meal. You could even include a small sprig in a bouquet or gift as a subtle nod to its symbolic meaning. With oregano in the mix, your celebration of love might just take on an extra layer of charm and history.
3. Thyme
Thyme: The Herb of Courage and Devotion

This is more than just a flavorful herb; it’s a plant steeped in rich symbolism and history, making it a perfect addition to your Valentine’s Day celebrations. From its ancient roots to its role in romantic traditions, thyme has long been associated with courage, affection, and devotion.
The name “thyme” originates from the Greek word ‘thymus,’ which translates to ‘courage.’ In Ancient Greece, thyme was revered as a symbol of elegance and classic style. It was often burned as an offering to the gods and used to scent temples, reflecting its esteemed status in Greek culture.
As history unfolded, thyme took on new meanings. During medieval times, it became a symbol of chivalry and bravery. Knights carried sprigs of thyme as a token of protection and courage in battle, believing it would inspire valor. Beyond the battlefield, thyme also symbolized romantic affection. In the language of flowers, thyme conveyed messages of devotion and lasting love.
In modern times, thyme’s romantic associations live on. It is often included in bouquets to express unwavering affection and loyalty. Its delicate leaves and soothing aroma make it a meaningful and versatile addition to any romantic gesture.
This Valentine’s Day, consider incorporating thyme into your celebrations. Use it as a garnish for a lovingly prepared meal, or include a sprig in a bouquet as a subtle symbol of your devotion. Whether it’s shared through food or flowers, thyme’s timeless charm is sure to leave a lasting impression on the one you love.
4. Rosemary
Rosemary: The Herb of Love and Remembrance

This is more than a fragrant culinary herb as it holds a cherished place in history as a symbol of love, fidelity, and remembrance. Its romantic associations make it a perfect choice to celebrate Valentine’s Day with both meaning and elegance.
Often called the “herb of love,” rosemary has been woven into wedding traditions for centuries. In some cultures, brides would wear wreaths made with rosemary sprigs, symbolizing their fidelity and the hope for a loving marriage. It was also believed to bring good luck and ensure happiness in the union. Beyond weddings, rosemary has long been used in romantic rituals and celebrations as a token of devotion.
Rosemary’s romantic reputation was further immortalized in the folk song ‘Scarborough Fair,’ popularized by Simon and Garfunkel. The lyrics ‘parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme’ poetically reference the Medieval Scarborough Fair, where the songwriter reflects on love and loss while searching for a lost lover. This connection to timeless romance and yearning has only deepened rosemary’s symbolic meaning.
But rosemary is more than symbolic; its invigorating aroma is said to boost memory and strengthen emotional connections. Its role as a symbol of remembrance pairs beautifully with its romantic history, making it an herb of enduring affection.
This Valentine’s Day, let rosemary add a touch of tradition and romance to your celebration. Use it in your cooking, whether in a roast or a delicate infused oil, or incorporate fresh sprigs into a bouquet or table setting. With rosemary, your Valentine’s celebration will carry a heartfelt connection to love’s enduring power.
5. Lavender
Lavender: The Herb of Romance and Tranquility

No list of romantic herbs would be complete without lavender. Revered for centuries, this fragrant herb has earned its place as a symbol of love, devotion, and serenity. This makes it an ideal addition to Valentine’s Day celebrations.
Lavender’s impact on culture and romance is undeniable, often immortalized in poems, songs, and folklore. One of the most beloved examples is the lullaby ‘Lavender’s Blue,’ a timeless song that links lavender to affection and enduring love. Its association with purity and devotion has further solidified its status as an herb of romance.
With its soothing aroma and stunning purple blooms, lavender has long been a favorite for expressing love and tranquility. In the Victorian era, lavender was included in tussie-mussies—small bouquets exchanged as tokens of affection. Its scent is believed to calm the mind and heart, fostering a sense of peace and connection, making it a perfect symbol for romantic occasions.
Lavender’s versatility extends beyond its symbolism. Whether infused into teas, baked into sweet treats, or used to scent a room, its presence creates an atmosphere of warmth and intimacy. A sprig of lavender tucked into a bouquet or tied around a gift adds a thoughtful, romantic touch that speaks volumes.
This Valentine’s Day, let lavender set the mood. Incorporate it into your celebrations through floral arrangements, fragrant candles, or homemade lavender-infused treats. With its rich history and undeniable charm, lavender will bring an air of romance and tranquility to your day of love.
So as you can see, herbs have long been entwined with love, romance, and devotion, making them a perfect addition to Valentine’s Day. Whether it’s basil’s passion-invoking aroma, oregano’s joyful energy, thyme’s symbol of unwavering affection, rosemary’s timeless connection to love and remembrance, or lavender’s soothing embrace, each herb carries a special meaning. By incorporating these botanical treasures into your celebrations – whether through cooking, floral arrangements, or just simple heartfelt gestures – you can add a touch of history, symbolism, and natural charm to your day.
This Valentine’s, let the power of herbs enhance your expressions of love in the most meaningful way.