Health Benefits of Herbs in the Home Garden

3 REASONS TO GROW HERBS IN YOUR GARDEN

1. Good for you! Using herbs daily in cooking as well as using them in other home remedies (teas, tinctures, etc.) promotes well rounded nutrition. There is an herb for nearly every ailment. Using herbs as preventive healthcare can decrease/eliminate future health complications and diseases. 
2. A lot of them are perennial and easy to grow! There is less succession planting (turn-over) then there is with most vegetable plants. 
3. The vast majority of them will keep bad bugs out of your garden, such as mosquitoes/ticks- a lot of them even attract beneficial pollinators! Most of them go undisturbed by hungry critters and insects. 

     

   Herb/Growing Key

   P = Perennial (First year they sleep, second year they creep, third year they LEAP!)

   A = Annual

   B = Biannual 

   W = WIld Herb (grows naturally/wild in our region)

   G = Garden Herb (will grow/thrive when planted/tended to in our region)

    

    

   WHAT HERBS CAN I GROW? 

   “CULINARY HERBS” 

   Many herbs you have in your garden/kitchen have incredible medicinal properties that are often overlooked. 

   Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)- P, G. 

   Pungent, warming, digestive, enhances immunity, rejuvenative, supports circulation, nervine. 

   Use in moderate/seasoning doses. Has improved memory recall in elderly. Smell/taste awakens, improves memory. 

   Thyme (Thymus vulgare)- P, G. 

   Pungent, warming, respiratory & immune support, opens lungs, calms coughs/sneezing. Increases digestive juices. Especially great for kids/animals. 

   Oregano (Origanum vulgare)- P, G. 

   Antimicrobial and antiseptic. Aid in respiratory issues/digestive issues- similar to thyme although mainly targets the gut. Especially great for kids/animals. 

   Sage (Salvia officinalis)- P, G.

   Use in moderate/seasoning doses. Studies have shown this herb helps in test scores. Generally uplifting and beneficial to brain functioning. 

   Garlic (Allium sativum)- A, G.

   A favorite stinking beauty! Raw garlic improves the immune system. Garlic infused in honey is an incredible folk remedy for chest coughs/congestion. Great for cardiovascular health and improves digestive functioning. 

   
   

   HERBS SPECIFICALLY known for their MEDICINAL QUALITIES

   
   

   IMMUNE BOOSTING HERBS

   Elder (Sambucus nigra)- P, G, W. Use: Flower/Berry. 

   15’+ tall. Tolerates different soils, from wet to poor to chalky. Prefers moist, rich humus. 

   The white flowers put on in spring aid in lower respiratory health and support healthy immune response. They berries put on in mid-late summer soothe coughs and also supports healthy immune response when made into a syrup. Only ingest berries after cooking them down. In raw form they may not be directly toxic but are not meant to be digested.

   Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea/ E. Angustifolia) - P, G, W.

   Use: Root (2+ years old), leaf, flower (cone and petals) 2’-4’ tall. Full-partial sun. can tolerate rocky soil, must be well drained. 

   Popular immune booster. Studies show if taken at the onset of cold/flu symptoms, this herb can reduce the intensity/duration of cold by 50%. In this scenario it is BEST if taken a low dose often- even hourly. Antiviral and antimicrobial. 

   Calendula (Calendula officinalis)- A, G. Use: Flower 

   2’-3’ ft. full sun-part shade. Mediterranean plant, is perennial in that climate. 

   Lymph mover, digestive aid, 100x more carotenoids than sweet potatoes in weight- aiding in eye health, immune support. Anti-inflammatory, slightly antimicrobial, vulnary, soothing properties to the gut (similar properties topically). 

   Greek Mullen (Verbascum olympicus, V. thapsus)- B, G, W. Use: Leaf/Flower. 

   5’+ tall! Part shade-full sun. Tolerates poor soils as long as they are well drained. 

   Demulcent, expectorant, lymphatic, enhances immunity. Mucilaginous, anti inflammatory, antiviral. Used for chest colds, bronchitis and asthma. Replaces lung tissue, aids us in breathing deeper. Can make an oil with the flower and use drops in ear to relieve inflammation, pain and wax accumulation. *Hairs on leaves can irritate sensitive skin and should be strained thoroughly from all preparations. Harvest leaves before it blooms. 

   
   

   NERVINES (RELAXES NERVOUS SYSTEM) 

   Skullcap (Scutellaria Lateriflora)- P, G. Use: Leaves, flowers. 

   1’-3’ tall. Can appear elusive until mature. Leave shape and color vary through development. Part shade-full sun. Keep moist, well drained soil. 

   A calming herb that works in the body immediately to relax the nervous system. Can use in daytime although may be too strong of a sedative for some. Shown to be particularly helpful in cases of insomnia, anxiety, hyperactivity, agitation and any kind of sensory overload. I never leave the home without a skullcap tincture and find relief when taking it during mild-moderate bouts of anxiety. A tea preparation could be brewed quite strong for someone moving through a panic attack. Check for contraindications with pharmaceuticals. 

   Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)- P, G. Flowers/leaves.  

   5’ tall. Very hardy! Full sun- light shade. Grows well in most soils.

   A beautiful plant and powerful heart tonic that is safe for daily use. Motherwort can help to regulate a healthy heartbeat. I have taken it as a tincture for arrhythmia with incredible success. I cannot recommend this enough for mild heart conditions or as a light sedative for the mother in us all- continuously caring with unbalanced acknowledgment/return. 

   
   

   Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)- P, G. Use: Flowers, mainly roots (2+ years old- harvest in spring when ground softens).

   4’ + tall. Grows in most soils, airing on moist side.  

   Smelly! Warming, pain relieving! When taken orally this herb helps to relax the muscles and promotes deep, long sleep. 

   Passionflower (Passiflora Incarnata)- P, G, W. Use: Flower/Leaves.

   Vine of 20’- needs a trellis to thrive! Well drained soil. Full sun/tropical plant. Although a perennial, this plant could suffer our winter and would enjoy being warmed by other plants spaced close by or even potted and brought inside. Notoriously hard to start from seed, but what gardener doesn’t like a good challenge!

   Passionflower is a sedative with effects akin to skullcap. Some studies have shown it may be particularly helpful in decreasing cyclical thought patterns (!!). Pair with cardio herbs to address stress induced hypertension. Pair with respiratory herbs to reduce stress induced asthma. 

   Lemon Balm (Melissa Officinalis)- P, G. Use: Leaves.  

   1’ tall. Full sun- part shade. Grow in sandy loam. 

   An herb garden is only as strong as its lemon balm! Pairs well with most herbs and adds uplifting, soothing flavor to tea. Calms without sedating. Useful for all ages. Aids with mild mood stability, restlessness, mental decline, anxiety, digestion, and has antiviral properties. Studies have shown lemon balm inhibits an overdrive of thyroid hormone in hyperthyroid disease. Lemony flavor and scent! 

   Chamomile, German (Matricaria Chamomilla) - A, G. Use: Flowers. 

   1’-3’ tall. Part shade or full sun. Cooler conditions, dryer soil. 

   One of my all time favorite things to grow. Make sure to get the German variety (not Roman). Can sow in early spring OR early fall (just long enough before frost to get established) and allow to overwinter for an earlier spring harvest. This is everything with chamomile as the humid barrelling sun of full summer can be too much for the petite flowers. Picking these fresh flowers to use in tea is a flavor game changer compared to the dried herb we’re used to. 

    

   ADAPTOGENIC (ADAPT TO STRESS/ BALANCE HORMONES)

   “Russian scientists say that adaptogen herbs increase the resistance within the body to a wide range of stressors and normalize functions. Western researchers look at how adaptogens regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.”

   -David Winston, Herbalist and Author. 

   Tulsi/Holy Basil (Ocimum Sanctum, O. Tenuiflorum)- A, G. Use: Flowering tops, leaf. 

   4’ tall. Treat it like culinary basil in the garden. Bees go crazy for it!

   Tulsi is a sacred plant native to India. There, a tulsi plant grows inside many homes and courtyards. The tulsi plant is the focal point of prayer every morning. Light, sweet and aromatic. The fresh herb can smell reminiscent of bubblegum! 

   A prolific plant, it grows quickly and can be harvested multiple times in a season. Highly recommended for beginning herb gardeners. Balances cortisol and blood sugar levels. Aids in anxiety and grief. Blend makes an incredible tea for anytime of day. 

   Ashwagandha (Withania Somniforta) - A, G. Use: Root only- harvest before first frost. 

   3’ tall. Grow it like a tomato. 

   An ayurvedic herb, also from India. The name of this plant translates to “smell and strength of a horse”, if that tells you anything about what it can do for you medically.  This is a nightshade with toxic berries that develop in late summer. It is also maybe the only herb I have grown consistently that suffers flea beetle damage. It is best to cover this plant with row cover, although if you leave it exposed it will still produce a fine root, just not it’s full potential. 

   
   

   DIGESTIVE (AIDS IN DIGESTION/GUT HEALTH)

   Marshmallow (Althaea Officinalis)- P, G. Use: Root, leaves. 

   1’-4’ tall, wet soil. 

   Mucilaginous, demulcent. Coats and soothes damaged tissue by creating a temporary mucous lining that promotes healing. Gently stimulates immune function  

   Peppermint (Mentha Piperita)- P, G. Use: Leaves. 

   1’ tall. Spreads in the garden.

   A classic carminative. The menthol in the oil of the leaves is a powerful antispasmodic. There is no better simultaneously soothing and clarifying after-dinner tea in my opinion. Also a great option for a morning beverage to replace caffeine. 

   Artichoke (Cynara Scolymus) - A, G. Use: Leaves. 

   4’ tall. Full sun. Needs a lot of space- 4’-6’ in diameter, although I've seen decent plants come out of a little closer spacing.

   A classic, basic bitter. Stimulates all aspects of digestive function and liver detoxification. Useful in cases of weak digestive function/heartburn, reflux, Crone's disease, indigestion, IBS. Also a plus if you enjoy eating artichokes. 

   Anise Hyssop (Agastache Foeniculum) - 

   Grow Facts: Perennial, 2’-4’ tall. Full sun- part shade. 

   A pollinator favorite. Licorice flavor. Digestive aid, delicious tea. 

   Medicinal Properties: Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory making it useful to relieve congestion from coughs and colds. Slight sedative, relieving aches in chest from coughing or congestion. Effective in treating lung/respiratory infections as well as bronchitis. Diaphoretic for fevers, induces sweating. As a tincture it is especially effective for colds, sore throats, flu and respiratory problems. 

   
   
   

   MEDICINALS WITH OTHER BENEFITS 

   Spilanthes (Acmella Oleracea) - A, G. Use: Flower, leaves. 

   1’ tall. Full sun- part shade. A perennial in the tropics. 

   Commonly known as the toothache plant. Feels like pop rocks in your mouth! Prompts the mouth to salivate, clearing and cleaning any sores, or bacteria build up.  

   Yarrow (Achillea Millefolium) - P, G, W. Use: FLowers, leaves.

   2’-4’ tall. Full sun- part shade. Well drained soil. Thrives in hot, dry conditions. 

   Intelligent plant with a multitude of uses, reflected in its name “millefolium” which translates to ``thousand leafed”. It can stimulate stagnant blood or quell it depending on what your body needs. Flowers are dried, ground and applied to cut to stop bleeding. Strengthens the lining of blood vessels/capillaries. Antimicrobial for coughs, flu, UTI’s. Taken internally to drive out a fever, or as digestive aid. Fresh plant tea with ¼ teaspoon salt per cup can be used as an eyewash. For most ailments, yarrow can offer help. A must for the herbalist’s garden. 

   St John’s Wort (Hypericum Perforatum)- P, G, W

   2’-3’ tall. Grows well in sandy, rocky, poorer soil. Adapting to moist and dry.  Often found by roadsides for this reason- although do not harvest it from here! There are many varieties, the medicinal one’s yellow flowers release red pigment when smeared, ground or infused in liquid.  

   Studies have shown that St. John’s Wort may be supportive in cases of mood disorders, depression, seasonal affective disorder, and the general sads. Has an effect similar to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Potential like prozac without the side effects. Used internal and topically for nerve damage, pain and healing. 

   MAY increase sensitivity to sunlight, although this statement is mainly based on albino cattle who graze on large amount of it. There have been a couple of accounts of folks who have experienced photosensitivity while on St. John’s Wort. Check for contraindications with pharmaceuticals.  

   Hibiscus (Hibiscus Sabdariffa) - A, G

   3’ tall. Full sun, tropical plant. Moist, well drained soil. 

   Antioxidants! Anti-inflammatory! Studies show 3 cups of hibiscus tea a day is as effective as blood pressure medications- with no side effects! The calyces (pod the flower grows out of) on these beautiful flowers are what you use to make tea. You can harvest them while the flowers in bloom or after it has died back. 

   Bee Balm (Monarda Fistilosa, M. Didima) - P, G, W. Use: Flowers, leaves.

   4’ tall. Full sun- partial shade. Very susceptible to powdery mildew, although some say a little of it might strengthen the medicinal compounds of the herb!

   Completely unique in aesthetic, aroma and flavor- a darling of the garden. Pollinators love it! Antiviral. Soothing for colds and coughs. A favorite extracted in maple syrup and added to teas during cold/flu season, or taken after a meal as it also makes a great digestive aid. 

   Goldenrod (Solidago) - P, G, W. Use: Flowers, leaves.

   5 ft. Full sun. Bitter and drying. Perfect for cleaning up any extra mucus after a bout of sickness. Folxs often mistake this plant for giving them allergies, but it’s actually ragweed which blooms at the same time with similar color that is usually the culprit. Quite the antithesis, goldenrod is actually used to curb allergy side effects, like runny nose and itchy eyes. This must be why it was made the state flower, for those of us with terrible ohio river valley allergies! It is also used to treat UTIs, kidney stones and gout.  

    Written by Madeline Marchal

   IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: The information here is not intended to be used to self diagnose or treat any condition. Home remedies can be a good start, but additional testing and diagnosing can aid in choosing the right remedy and dosage. Before starting any herb regime, check with a practitioner who is knowledgeable in herbal medicine.