Raising an herb garden at home not only saves you money, since you don’t have to buy herbs when you need them, but you can also get numerous health benefits from it. Herbs are not only used for cooking but can also be used to make tea. You can simply harvest a few leaves here and there to add to your dishes or drinks and you’ll still have ample supply left for your next meal.
So what herbs should you add in your garden? Here are 10 healthy herbs that you might want to consider.
1. Rosemary
This aromatic herb needs full sunshine and frequent watering to grow properly. It contains carnosic acid which is a compound that can help combat cancer cells. Also, the aroma of this herb is known to help improve one’s memory.
2. Lavender
This pretty plant packs a lot of health benefits. One, its scent can make you feel more relaxed while the antioxidants found in the plant are known to combat bloat. Lavender is a large plant and is best planted outside. If you want to make it an indoor plant, see to it that it gets adequate amount of sunlight, preferably up to eight hours of sunlight, plus the pot that you will use should have several holes for proper drainage.
3. Thyme
If someone in your family is prone to suffering from bronchitis or other respiratory illness, planting thyme is a must. You can use this herb in salads, soups, and other types of recipes. The best thing about thyme is that you can keep it indoors for easy access when cooking. Just make sure that it’s getting plenty of sunshine so it will grow properly.
4. Basil
Basil packs a lot of fiber, not only that, but it is also known for its detoxifying effect on the liver as well as calming properties. The best thing about this herbal plant is that it can be planted both indoors and outdoors without any effect. It doesn’t need to be watered all the time. Just water it every other day to keep it healthy.
5. Sage
Sage is often used in most beauty products because of its antioxidant and antiseptic properties. Also, this herb is often used to treat fatigue and anxiety. It is also believed to boost memory. You need to pay attention to this plant because it requires constant maintenance. It should have good soil, plenty of sunlight, and water.
6. Parsley
Another herbal plant that you should be including in your herb garden, parsley is filled with nutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K. As a matter of fact, one tablespoon of parsley is equivalent to half of the recommended daily intake of vitamin K which helps in keeping your blood healthy.
7. Cilantro
This herb is a staple in most Asian and Mexican dishes because it is a good source of iron and fiber. It is also known for its ability to flush any toxic metals in the body such as lead and mercury and remove them from the tissues of your body. Since cilantro requires deep soil due to its root system, it is one of the toughest to grow but it’s worth the effort once you see it thrive.
8. Dill
Dill is believed to treat hiccups and is worth adding to your herbal garden because it contains high amounts of antioxidants. If you have the hiccups, add a teaspoon of dill to a cup of hot water, strain the leaves, and drink your dill concoction slowly. This herb is best planted outdoors, but if you’re going to move it indoors, look for a big pot to accommodate the entire plant.
9. Chive
If you’re looking for an herbal plant that can help improve your immune system then your best bet is to plant chives. This herb belongs to the onion family and can help combat certain cancer development such as in the breast, stomach, and prostate. You won’t have a hard time growing chives since they can thrive indoors too.
10. Mint
Two tablespoons of mint will give you half of the recommended daily intake of vitamin A which goes to show that adding this herbal plant to your garden is a must. What’s more, mint is handy when it comes to your digestion, breath, asthma, and even cavities. The best way to grow mint is outdoors and on a raised bed.
