Herb of the Week: Pandan

Pandan (Pandanus amaryllifolius) is a tropical plant known for its vanilla-like scented leaves. If you've never tried this herb before, I'd describe its flavor as a grassy vanilla taste that's very soft. It's also a nutritional powerhouse rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Not only is this yummy, it's also great to help regulate blood sugar (by regulating glucose metabolism), soothe joint pain, support heart health, and improve digestion. As an ingredient in aromatherapy it can help calm anxiety and sooth stress and to improve concentration.

In witchcraft and folklore, it's used to help shift energy and attract positive outcomes. It's used in Western traditions but it's definitely more significant in Southeast Asian practices. It's great to bring forth luck and prosperity along with happiness and joy. Use it for purification and protection rituals as well.