1. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm has calming effects, which can reduce anxiety and sleep problems. It is also used for digestive problems like upset stomach, intestinal gas, vomiting and colic. This useful plant tends to be naturally pest and disease resistant, and all it really needs is some decent soil, protection from punishing heat and a regular watering schedule. This herb can be used for making homemade tea or as a yummy salad addition.
2. Thyme
Thyme is a powerful herb that can help you with many types of breast and colon cancer, bacterial infections and skin problems. It is commonly used for treating diarrhea, stomachache, arthritis, sore throat and bronchitis. The plant is very hardy and easy to grow, as well as safe to harvest without constant fear of it dying. It is best used in deep stews and meat marinades.
3. Sage
Sage is used in medicine to help alleviate symptoms of mental disorders such as Alzheimer’s and depression. It can also be used to solve digestive problems, improve memory and help type 2 diabetes patients with lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels. A sage plant requires plenty of sunshine, good drainage and good air circulation. Sage is most often used with poultry and pork but can also be used to flavor cheese.
4. Rosemary
A good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin B6, rosemary has been found to be helpful with enhancing memory and concentration, as well as providing neurological protection. It is perfect to grow in a pot, but not in direct sunlight, so you don’t even need to have a garden. Use dry or fresh rosemary to add great taste to pizzas or baked potatoes.
5. Parsley
Parsley contains more vitamin C and K than basically anything else you eat, so it works wonders for people with kidney stones, gastrointestinal disorders, constipation, diabetes, cough, and asthma. If you plan on planting some parsley seeds in your garden do so in moist, rich soil and plant each seed about 7 inches (18 cm) apart. Chop parsley and sprinkle it on any dish you want to add a little life and color to. It is mild on the palate and yet very refreshing.
6. Chives
Chives are nutrient-dense herbs, with a low amount of calories and high levels of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Chives contain choline, an important nutrient that helps with sleep, muscle movement, learning and memory. It has no problems growing indoors or outdoors, but it prefers full sunlight. It is also important to give chives consistent watering in the growing season, to ensure high yields. Add chives to salads or other dishes spiced with herbs to give them an unexpected twist.
7. Mint
Best grown in a pot, as it grows to fill whatever space you give it, mint is a very useful herb to have around the house. It can be used as a simple answer to allergies, colds, Irritable Bowel Syndrome and abdominal pains. Use mint to make home-made natural tea, salads, or even just crush a few leaves and add to water with some lemon juice for a great healthy drink.
8. Oregano
This plant will strive at ground level but won’t spread too aggressively, which means it’s best grown outdoors or in large containers. Not only does this herb provide food flavor and an amazing smell, it’s also high on potent antioxidants and anti-bacterial ingredients. Water the oregano only when the soil is dry, as they are native to arid regions and don’t like too much water. Use it when making home-made pizza, mix it in with your pasta sauce or even try adding a bit to your morning’s scrambled eggs.
9. Tarragon
Tarragon has been used as a traditional remedy to stimulate appetite and alleviate symptoms of anorexia. It is a rich source of vitamins such as C, A and B, and other minerals like calcium, manganese, iron and magnesium. Keep tarragon in a spot of the garden that enjoys full sun in the morning with dappled light in the afternoon. It can tolerate full afternoon sun in locations that don’t get too hot, but it should be kept well-watered. Tarragon is a tasty spice for any dish with rice or chicken and can also add a refreshing, but not overpowering, taste to fish dishes.
10. Basil
Consider planting this herb in your garden and house just for the smell, if not for its many possible health benefits. Rich in antioxidants and anti-aging properties, basil is a good source of vitamins A, K and C, as well as magnesium, iron and potassium. During dry periods, water the plants freely, as basil loves moist ground. Also, be sure to pick the leaves regularly to encourage growth throughout the summer. Commonly used in Italian cooking, basil combines wonderfully with anything that includes tomatoes and cheese.
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By training, I am a American Board Certified Pediatrician. But in my younger years I grew up with natural alternatives. As a mom I have tried to incorporate both for my kids and it has worked wonders. And finally, as I am studying natural & alternative medicines, I realize the beauty and wisdom of living closer to earth. Hence in my practice I integrate both...for acute ailments I follow American Academy of Pediatrics recommendation but for simple and/or chronic conditions I prefer natural alternatives.
In western training we were raised to think that "health is the absence of symptoms and problems". But eastern sensibilities has educated me that "Health is state that allows one to use the full capabilities of their body, mind and intellect. Therefore, healthy living is a balanced state of well being: physically, mentally, socially and spiritually." This implies that healing is not a "one-pill-fits-all", but a personalized experience.
