Over thousands of years, people have grown herbs for basic sustenance and medicinal cures. Many plants are referred to as herbs when they are used to provide flavour, scent, essential oils and medicinal benefits. Today, herbs are gaining popularity through kitchen garden and back to nature medical treatment.

Herbs contribute odours, fragrance and flavour making food more delicious and palatable. They can be used in a variety of ways and are added to a wide range of food and consumer products. Herbs are also known for their traditional medicinal uses and beliefs which for most still needed to be scientifically proven. When used fresh and raw they contribute significant nutrients especially dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals.

In Sarawak, the different communities have been using local herbs as food, in cooking and flavouring. Some of these common herbs and their preparations and uses are included in this booklet. Most of these herbs can be easily grown in backyard garden or in pots. Having fresh herbs on hand can add a unique and pungent taste to food while helping to nourish one's mental and physical health. In addition, these herbs can be especially helpful to people who are on restricted salt or sugar diets, adding flavour and palatability to what might otherwise be a bland diet.

Finally, this booklet aims to bring greater awareness to readers on a range of local and popular herbs that they can easily grow at home and used to enhance their meals without adding fat or calories content.