Jewish Herbalism For Farmers with Naomi Spector

Class 1

Garlic is considered an aphrodisiac, but is also a symbol of love and is believed to remove jealousy. It was a common ingredient in Jewish charm sachets. It protects against the Evil Eye as well- or, for general protection, garlic strung on red string was used (especially in charm bags, as bracelets, or as necklaces; blue string was also sometimes used). Or it was just carried on its own, in a pocket. Hanging from windows, doors, or ceilings for protection, or planted in the 4 corners of a room. The braids hung in windows, though, were also considered a symbol of Jewish faith. There is also the phrase "Let the bad energy go to the Garlic".

The first Hebrew Sonnet was about Garlic, Onion, and Leek; it's believed that Shabbat should be welcomed in with Beets, Garlic, and Fish.

Garlic was a marker of Jewishness. The use of Garlic was enough to convict someone of Jewry. Jews were consistently called "Garlic Eaters" as a pejorative. Garlic marked the major dishes as being Jewish for much of Jewish history.

Garlic, Ginger, and Honey tea is a common rememdy. Chicken Soup with Onions and Garlic was also considered a Remedy my Maimonedes; 1 clove a day was eatten for immunity.

Eggplant is also associated heavily with Jews and Muslims. It was considered a food of celebration.

Christians were frequently serious about Eating pork, and eschewing Eggplant, Garlic, spices, soap, and "intellectual activities" as being "Jewish perversities". they considered Eggplant in particular poisonous, and considered anyone who ate it evil.

Potatos became available around 1500 to 1800, but they weren't immediately accessible after introduction. Still, Potato Soup on Friday afternoons became heavily associated with poor Jews in particular.

Class 2

Class 3