Conditions for Eating Garden Produce
This question and answer were automatically translated using our trained AI and have not yet been reviewed by a qualified rabbi. Please treat this translation with caution.
go to original →
Question
Hello, My neighbor brought me za'atar, sage, and rosemary from his garden. My question is, can I use this after washing (regarding worms and tithes...)?
Answer
Hello,
Regarding tithes:
Tithes - Spices that are used only for flavor and are not consumed themselves are exempt from tithes, but types of spices that are eaten themselves are obligated in tithes.
Since it depends on reality, if people eat them or they are only given for flavor, one should separate tithes from all spices without a blessing.
You can use the Beit HaHoraa line [0733260800, extension 45], where all the laws of separation without a blessing are detailed.
Regarding worms, I am copying for you the inspection instructions from the book of the renowned expert Rabbi Moshe Vaya, shlita:
Za'atar and rosemary: Shake the stems vigorously over a white surface and observe if insects fall. If insects are found, it is advisable not to use the leaves. If no insects are found, soak in water for about three minutes with a little cleaning liquid and scrub with a sponge dipped in cleaning solution and rinse thoroughly through a sieve with large holes, such as a pasta strainer.
Sage: Considered highly infested and very difficult to ensure the leaves are clean, therefore, the leaves can be used in two ways: Method A: Extract. Wash the leaves thoroughly and cook them separately, strain through a dense cloth, filter paper, or cotton wool, and use the extract.
Method B: Wrapped. Wash the leaves thoroughly and cook them with the dish, placing them in a tightly closed fabric pouch or wrapping in non-woven fabric, tightly tied.