Backyard Medicinal Herbs

Medicinal herbs have been grown and used for centuries. The Chinese  have been practicing the use of herbs 
since the dawn of their civilization. The native Americans have incorporated various herbs in their medicines and rituals and many of those herbs and plants are used today with the same lasting natural effects they provided the Indian tribes in years gone by. Today we can grow various herbs in our home gardens that can supply us with the benefits for our health that will be more natural and safe for everyday consumption plus provide lasting garden beauty and sustainable food sources for butterflies and other wildlife. I will share some of the best known and easy to grow medicinal herbs that may help you with your everyday maladies and possibly increase your energy level and mental focus. I am not a licensed doctor and do not claim to be and I encourage all who read this blog and consider it's contents for their own personal use to use common sense and check with your physician to see if using these listed herbs are safe for you and your family. By doing this first, you can rest assured that however you use the listed herbs, a professional opinion has been administered.

1. One of the best known medicinal herbs and easiest to grow is Aloe Vera.  The plant originates from tropical Africa and is used to treat wounds,burns,sunburn,poor digestion, and bronchial  congestion. A very water wise plant you can grow one plant in a vase,pot or sunny space in your front or back yard garden. *

2. Chamomile has been used to treat insomnia,anxiety,and stress. Used as an ointment it is a great for insect bites,itching,and wounds.  The flowers from the Chamomile is the valuable part of the plant. A full sun exposure in a nice classy pot or special sunny spot in the garden will add the bonus of beauty and sustainability as this plant also is a great water thrifty choice. *

3. Lavender is a special and widely used medicinal herb shrub that has many various species and they all provide generous amounts of essential oils to help relieve tension headaches,tonic for the nervous system,antiseptic,treat lice,and help with insect bites. The flowers also provide a cool, clean scent to those sock and underware drawers. Another water wise star in the landscape and a overall beautiful plant that loves full sun and a good drainage. *

4. Thyme has been used since the Roman Empire. Thyme is  good as a antiseptic, soothes coughs,heals wounds,and is good for respiratory and digestive challenges.  Essential oil and infusions make this water thrifty shrub a winner in the medicinal herb world. A full sun lover and container garden favorite, makes thyme a must in every home garden. *

5. Rosemary  is a Mediterranean shrub that has strong oils and is a effective antiseptic,antidepressant,circulatory stimulant and is useful for headaches.  It is also a perfect cooking herb. Rosemary is another water wise shrub that can be used as a ground cover or a stand alone accent shrub that adds height and texture to one's landscape. Great in pots flowing over the sides or in a narrow planter bed to add class to a native landscape design. Rosemary is a smart choice.*

* The suggested herbs and the suggested uses were from The Complete Medicinal Herbal by Penelope Ody