Medicinal herbs you can grow right in your backyard
Not only will you have a fresh supply of herbs, but they’ll add some serious beauty to your garden. By Candy Rose.
Growing medicinal herbs in your backyard can be simple and rewarding. Not only will you have a fresh supply of herbs, but they’ll add beauty to your garden. You can use them to help treat all sorts of ailments. Here are my favourites and their purported health benefits.
1. Aloe vera: This little guy is perfect for treating cuts, burns and even pesky bug bites. Did you know that aloe vera can also be used as a natural hair conditioner?
2. Lavender: Feeling stressed? Lavender’s got your back! It’'s excellent for reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality.
3. Marigold: This bright orange flower has anti-inflammatory properties and can help with minor skin conditions, like rashes and eczema. The ancient Greeks and Romans used marigold flowers for medicinal purposes.
4. Basil: This herb smells fantastic, but it’s also a great source of antioxidants and is said to help with digestion and headaches. In some cultures, it’s a symbol of love.
5. Nettle: Watch out for the sting, but this herb is popular in Western herbal medicine for its potential benefits in reducing inflammation and hay fever symptoms, and in lowering blood sugar.
6. Garlic: It’s good for the heart, great for colds and perfect for infections. Plus, it's got some serious antibacterial properties. Garlic was used in ancient times as a natural antibiotic.
7. Onions: These guys are versatile, high in vitamin C and can help boost immunity and prevent infections. They were so special that they were used as currency in ancient Egypt.
8. Stevia: This natural sweetener is an excellent alternative to sugar. It’s native to Paraguay and has been used as a sweetener for centuries.
9. Lemon balm: Feeling anxious or stressed? Lemon balm has your back! It’s said to be excellent for relaxation and improving sleep quality. Lemon balm leaves can also make a refreshing tea.
10. Sage: Feeling forgetful? Sage can help with that. As well as possibly helping with brain function, some people swear by it for relieving sore throats.
11. Thyme: Feeling under the weather? Thyme can help with respiratory issues like coughs and bronchitis. It also has some antibacterial properties and can improve digestion. Thyme was used in ancient Egypt for embalming.
12. Parsley: This herb, possibly the most used in the world, is a source of vitamin C and can help improve heart health, freshen breath and aid digestion. In ancient Greece, parsley was used to make wreaths for athletic competition winners.
13. Ginger: This spicy little root can help with nausea. It can also help treat headaches and improve digestion, and it’s often recommended as a natural remedy for motion sickness.
14. Dandelion: This common weed is excellent for digestion and is said to promote liver health. Some use it for treating acne and eczema. The flowers can also be used to make dandelion syrup. Did you know that dandelions are a good source of vitamins A and C?
15. Rosemary: This fragrant herb has a reputation for improving memory and concentration. Some say it also relieves muscle pain and reduces inflammation.
16. Lemongrass: A popular ingredient in Thai cuisine that treats digestive issues and reduces inflammation. It can also relieve stress and improve sleep quality.
17. Chamomile: Feeling stressed? Chamomile’s got your back. It’s lovely for promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality. The flowers can attract beneficial insects that can help with pollination and pest control.
18. Hibiscus: This plant’s flower is known for lowering blood pressure and improving heart health. It can also treat respiratory infections. Hibiscus tea is a popular beverage in many countries
19. Peppermint: Feeling bloated? Peppermint’s got you covered. Some find it helps alleviate headaches and it also has the reputation for reducing stress and promoting relaxation; hence, it is an aromatherapy favourite.
20. Wheatgrass: This grass is excellent for aiding digestion, boosting immunity and reducing inflammation. It’s easy to grow and is a trendy health drink when juiced.
21. Chives: This flavourful herb can help boost immunity and aid digestion.
In the kitchen, chives are a popular ingredient in many dishes, including soups, salads and omelettes.
22. Oregano: This aromatic herb, a member of the mint family, has been used to treat infections, reduce inflammation and is said to improve digestion.
23. Marjoram: Ancient Greeks and Romans used marjoram for medicinal purposes? They thought it was excellent for enhancing digestion, reducing inflammation, relieving stress and promoting relaxation.
24. Evening primrose: This essential oil is popularly used for treating skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and acne due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It is also known to reduce symptoms of PMS and menopause. Evening primrose flowers bloom only in the evening.
There are many options for herbs that you can grow in your garden. They add beauty and fragrance to your outdoor space and are often useful in cooking. What a bonus if they are also good for your health. What’s more, these plants are known to attract beneficial insects, which can help create a thriving ecosystem.