Planting an herb garden is the perfect way to relax, connect with nature, enjoy time with your children and preserve a tradition that humans have practiced for thousands of years. While gardening may be a new undertaking for you, over time you will notice you develop an intuitive sense about your plant companions as you experience the joy and satisfaction which is gained form having our hands in the earth, tending to nature and interacting and harmonising with the natural world.
What's fascinating is that there is an abundance of scientific evidence supporting the health benefits of gardening. Data shows that tending to flowers and simply cohabitating with nature can calm anxiety, lift symptoms of depression, and lower blood pressure. The subtle aromas from plants create an atmosphere of ease, while the meditative act of working outside in nature offers numerous physical and mental benefits.
Additionally, the fresh herbs from your garden provide the additional benefit of bringing flavour and healing nutrients to every meal. If you are feeling inspired to start planting a garden, here are five healing herbs that are easy to grow, no matter where you live.
1. Peppermint (Mentha x piperita)
Peppermint is an absolute must-have in the garden and in daily life. It's an amazing ally during flu season, known to break fevers, soothe pain, and calm stomach aches quickly. Peppermint is incredibly low maintenance, thriving with minimal attention. It grows rapidly, especially when you regularly pluck its abundant leaves for teas or culinary uses. Just remember to cut gently at the stem and not take too much too soon to avoid damaging the plant.
Growing Conditions: Peppermint prefers gritty, moist soil and partial sunlight. It’s hardy and adaptable, making it perfect for beginner gardeners.
Medicinal Uses: Peppermint tea can relieve headaches, indigestion, and menstrual cramps. Peppermint oil can be applied to the temples to alleviate migraines or inhaled to clear respiratory passages.
Other Uses: Fresh peppermint leaves can be used in teas, salads, and desserts. The essential oils can be used for respiratory relief, digestive issues, and even as a natural insect repellent. Crushed peppermint leaves can be rubbed on the skin to soothe insect bites and stings.
2. Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
Calendula, with its vibrant golden and orange flowers, is a powerful topical healer. It can be used for any skin type to heal rashes, acne, minor scratches, and bug bites. When taken as a tea, calendula petals help stimulate detoxification by promoting the proper movement of lymphatic fluid.
Growing Conditions: Plant calendula seeds in the spring, giving each seed about 12-18 square inches of space. Bury the seeds a 1/4 inch into loamy, well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist but not drenched.
Medicinal Uses: Calendula can be made into salves and creams to treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. It also has antifungal properties, making it useful for treating athlete's foot.
Other Uses: Calendula petals can be used in teas to soothe sore throats and ulcers. The flowers can also be added to salads for a pop of colour and a boost of nutrition. Calendula oil can be used in massage therapy to promote relaxation and reduce inflammation.
3. Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)
Chamomile is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. Its small white petals spark joy, and its pleasant aroma is calming. Chamomile tea can soothe anxious stomach aches, bring comfort to sick children, and relax tense muscles. Chamomile grows well in almost any climate and is easier to start from a plant than from seed.
Growing Conditions: Chamomile is drought-tolerant and doesn’t need much attention once established. Its strong aroma makes it an ideal companion plant for vegetable gardens, warding off pests.
Medicinal Uses: Chamomile tea can aid in sleep, reduce menstrual pain, and treat cold symptoms. It can also be used as a mouthwash to treat mouth ulcers and gum disease.
Other Uses: Chamomile can be used in skin creams to reduce redness and irritation. The dried flowers can be added to potpourri for a pleasant scent. Chamomile can also be used to lighten hair naturally when used as a rinse.
4. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Lavender is often the first herb that comes to mind when thinking of calming plants. Its scent is known to reduce cortisol levels, the hormone behind the fight-or-flight response. Lavender oil is a powerful muscle relaxant and wound healer. Its legendary use, however, is to promote deep sleep and vivid dreams.
Growing Conditions: Lavender is best grown from cuttings of a mature plant. It thrives in well-drained soil and needs plenty of space—plant each one at least 2 feet apart. It grows best in drier soils, so adding mulch can help with drainage in wetter climates.
Medicinal Uses: Lavender oil can be used to treat anxiety, insomnia, depression, and restlessness. It also has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help heal minor burns and bug bites.
Other Uses: Lavender can be used in sachets for sleep aid, in oils for relaxation and skin treatments, and as a fragrant addition to culinary dishes. Dried lavender can also be used to make decorative wreaths and potpourri.
5. Dandelions (Taraxacum officinale)
Every part of a dandelion is medicinal. Widely respected as a premier detox herb and supports liver function. Fresh dandelion leaves are a flavourful addition to salads, pesto, and sauces.
Growing Conditions: Dandelions are resilient and can grow almost anywhere. They require minimal care, making them perfect for a low-maintenance garden.
Medicinal Uses: Dandelion root tea can support liver health, improve digestion, and act as a mild diuretic. The leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals such as iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
Other Uses: Dandelion leaves can be used in salads and teas. The roots can be roasted and ground as a coffee substitute. The flowers can be used to make dandelion wine or infused in oil to make dandelion salve.
By cultivating these five easy-to-grow herbs, you'll have a living medicine store in your backyard, providing natural remedies and culinary delights right at your fingertips.
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