YOUR GARDEN

Your garden is an abundant pharmacy in waiting – and you don’t have to do much to grow some simple plants that can provide some real health benefits

BRITONS have traditionally used their gardens to grow medicines. In Shakespeare’s day, so-called physic gardens, where people grew herbs for medicinal remedies, were common.

Clearly, I’m not suggesting you stop using proper medicine or seeing your doctor in favour of home produce. But you can explore simple herbal treatments like mint and chamomile tea infusions, growing your own garlic and using lavender to help keep clothes fresh and scent your baths.

Connecting with nature improves health, making us feel rejuvenated. So try these healthy contenders.

HAVING a garden where the plants can benefit your health is a real plus.

But it’s not just the plants, the very act of gardening benefits mental and physical wellbeing.

From planting and digging to watering, gardening tones and strengthens a multitude of muscles. Plus, being outside gives you vitamin D from the sun, which helps your body absorb calcium for strong bones and teeth. The sound of the birds, bees and natural world also has a calming effect.

MINT, when consumed in mint tea, helps your digestive system and can relieve bloating. In addition, you can use it for a homemade sunburn remedy.

Pour boiling water over three cupfuls of fresh mint leaves, then allow “phytochemicals” (biological compounds) from the mint to infuse with the water. Strain the mint leaves out, leave to cool in the fridge, and then apply it to your sunburn.