Grew the herbs then tried to mash'em, dice'em, slice'em - arrrrghhh. Got this Marble Mortar and Pestle; pulled the leaves off the plant, tossed them into the Mortar and BAM - the result was amazing! Much better flavor, use less than the dehydrated bottle spices... Well packed [it's heavy] quick ship. If you cook, highly recommend this inexpensive difference maker.