Now that we’ve looked at the history of herbs and how to design your own herb garden, let’s take a look at some easy to grow herbs and their medicinal properties.

Herbal remedies are not a cure for disease or ailments but rather help the body heal itself. Herbs help the body by encouraging the elimination of toxins and by stimulating or calming the various organs or systems.
Here are some common, easy to grow herbs for your herb garden and their therapeutic benefits.

Garlic

Garlic has been used throughout the ages to ward disease. It is antibacterial and can neutralise ‘unfriendly’ bacteria in the gastro-intestinal tract. Garlic provides protection against colds and flu and strengthens the chest for asthma and bronchitis sufferers. Garlic improves the circulation, lowers blood pressure and reduces cholesterol levels. Scientific studies have also shown that garlic also offers some degree of protection against cancer. Garlic has also been shown to possess both antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Calendula

Calendula heals wounds, as well as internal and external ulcers. It is an antiseptic and improves blood flow to the affected area. Calendula is also an antifungal and can be used for the treatment of athlete’s foot, ringworm, candida and cold sores. Calendula is a mild bitter tonic and soothes the digestive tract.

Echinacea

Echinacea has anti-inflammatory properties and at the first stage of a cold or infection boosts the immune system and helps stop infection. The main function of Echinacea is to assist the immune system in fighting all manner of ailments from less serious to the more life threatening such as cancer.

Chamomile

Chamomile, best known as a soothing tea is also effective as a healing agent for the skin. It is also useful as a soothing remedy for babies and young children in treating restlessness, colic and teething. Chamomile has anti-histamine and anti-inflammatory properties, which also makes it useful in treating allergic conditions and digestive problems. Chamomile also has healing properties and will speed up the healing of wounds and burns.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a warming and stimulating herb and works on the circulation as well as the nervous system. It eases rheumatism and arthritis when used internally and externally for joints. Rosemary also improves digestion and is an excellent tonic for the weak and aged.

Thyme

Thyme is beneficial for stiff joints and sore muscles and an infusion of thyme is an excellent treatment for asthma, whooping cough and bronchitis. Thyme is also an antiseptic for the skin and good for the digestive system.

These are just a few easy to grow herbs that will benefit your health, there are many others for you to discover and creatively incorporate into your herb garden design.

About Us

Living Colour Landscapes is all about creating inspirational garden designs. Our Sydney-based landscape designers can help you transform any outdoor space, whether you own a garden, a patio, a veranda or a rooftop space.

Reference
The Illustrated Book of Herbs by Barbara Hey