When you think of Italian cuisine, you probably picture bowls of pasta tossed in fragrant sauces, crispy roasted vegetables, or bread dipped in olive oil and herbs. At the heart of many of these dishes lies one pantry staple: Italian seasoning. But what exactly is in Italian seasoning, and how can we view it through both a traditional and Ayurvedic lens? Let’s take a closer look.
A Brief History of Italian Seasoning
Interestingly, Italian seasoning isn’t actually a product of Italy. In fact, it was created in the United States as a convenient way to bring together the classic Mediterranean herbs often used in Italian cooking. While Italians tend to season dishes fresh with what’s available, like basil picked from the garden or sprigs of rosemary, American cooks wanted a shelf-stable blend that captured that flavor profile.
So, Italian seasoning was born as a dried herb mix inspired by Italian flavors, designed to add depth and balance to everyday cooking.
What Spices Are in Italian Seasoning?
Though blends vary by brand, the typical Italian seasoning includes a combination of Basil, Oregano, Thyme, Marjoram, Rosemary, and Sage.
These herbs work together to create the recognizable “Italian” flavor that pairs beautifully with tomato sauces, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, soups, and breads.
How to Use Italian Seasoning
One of the best things about Italian seasoning is its versatility. A pinch can:
• Elevate pasta sauces and pizzas
• Flavor roasted or grilled vegetables
• Season poultry, fish, or plant-based proteins
• Infuse soups, stews, and casseroles
• Enhance breads, focaccia, and dressings
It’s truly a go-to blend when you want to add warmth and Mediterranean flair to your dishes.
An Ayurvedic Perspective on Italian Herbs
From an Ayurvedic lens, these Mediterranean herbs are more than flavorful—they carry unique energetics that can support balance in the body:
When combined, they create harmony in taste and energetics, just as they do in flavor.
Spotlight on IrieVeda’s Old World Roast
At IrieVeda, we take inspiration from Italian seasoning and elevate it with a mindful twist. Our handcrafted blend, Old World Roast, includes Basil, Marjoram, Sage, Thyme, Orange Zest, Fennel, Rosemary, Curry Leaf and White Pepper
Why Old World Roast Stands Out
• Allergen-Free & Mindful: Crafted in a top 23 allergen-free, gluten-free certified, FODMAP-friendly facility.
• Ayurvedic Benefits:
• Basil & Marjoram – Cooling and calming for digestion, easing Pitta irritation.
• Sage & Rosemary – Clarifying and invigorating, supporting memory and Kapha balance.
• Thyme – Warming, aids respiratory health and supports digestion.
• Orange Zest – Uplifting and bright, reduces heaviness and stagnation in Kapha.
• Fennel – Sweet and cooling, soothing to the gut, calming to Vata and Pitta.
• Curry Leaf – Nourishing, gently detoxifying, and supportive of healthy digestion.
• White Pepper – Light heat that stimulates Agni (digestive fire) without overwhelming Pitta.
• Versatility in the Kitchen:
Perfect for roasted vegetables, marinades, soups, breads, olive oil dips, and hearty stews. Its citrusy, savory, and peppery notes make it a well-rounded replacement for traditional Italian seasoning.
In Ayurveda, this blend is especially supportive during the fall and winter seasons, when the body benefits from grounding, warming spices that keep digestion strong and mood uplifted.
Bringing It All Together
Italian seasoning may have American roots, but it draws from ancient Mediterranean herbs that have been treasured for centuries. By layering in Ayurvedic wisdom, we see how these herbs not only taste delicious but also bring balance to mind and body.
Whether you reach for a traditional Italian seasoning mix or elevate your meals with IrieVeda’s Old World Roast, you’re choosing a path that celebrates flavor, wellness, and mindful cooking.
✨ Try Old World Roast today and experience the timeless flavors of the Mediterranean—crafted for modern wellness.