As the spring approaches, it is time to think about what you will do with your home garden. Many herbs can be easily grown at home that have medicinal benefits. These may be worth testing out your green thumb this year.
Basil is a popular herb used in Italian dishes, sauces, and, in some instances, ice cream. Cleveland Clinic confirms that basil has numerous health benefits, including its high vitamin K content, which helps strengthen bones. Basil is high in antioxidants, which help protect cells. It also helps maintain blood sugar levels. Basil easily grows from seeds indoors due to temperature, and can be set outside during warmer weather at the beginning of the summer. It can be grown in pots or in the ground.
Parsley is simple to grow. Plants can be bought in early May, or seeds can be purchased in March. It may take up to four weeks to germinate. The plant can grow large, so don’t let it overgrow in pots. When transferring to the ground, don’t disturb the roots. The National Institutes of Health reports that parsley has been used in traditional medicine for its diverse health benefits, including renal health, for which studies have shown modest improvements in urinary composition and renal health markers.
Peppermint tastes good, and has the benefit of medicinal properties. The Blue Cross Blue Shield News Center identifies health benefits that include improvements in memory and alertness, as well as aiding in headache and stress relief. To grow peppermint, buy a potted starter plant from a garden center or otherwise obtain a cutting. It is an invasive plant, so it is essential to place it in a garden space that will allow it to grow freely. A distant relative to peppermint is lemon balm. Lemon balm seeds need a fairly warm soil to sprout like in early spring, however it is not as invasive as peppermint.
Sage is a simple potted plant. A sage transplant can be purchased and planted in a container. Why a container? Sage plants will die in the winter but return in the same pot each spring. The American Association of Naturopathic Physicians lists the health benefits of sage inclusive of oral health benefits, antioxidant-rich properties, and reduced hot flashes.
When starting any new diet or supplement routine, please consult with your chosen medical professional to prevent any possible drug/herb interactions.
