Herb Cultivation & Medicinal Uses

Echinacea

Echinacea, also known as purple coneflower, has gained popularity as a cold remedy. It is a blood purifier and helps to stimulate the immune system. It is considered a natural antibiotic. These tall flowers should be planted in a flower bed which gets plenty of sun. Light shade is okay, and the plants tolerate heat well. They grow similar to daisies but have large purple petals. When full grown (about 3 feet), the flowers should be cut and dried by hanging upside down. The dried herbs can then be used in herbal teas, or ground and put into gelatin capsules.

Feverfew is commonly used for migraines. It is a mild sedative and reduces inflammation. Although in the chrysanthemum family, the flowers resemble small daisies which grow in bushes. Feverfew should be planted in a flower bed with full sun exposure, and grows in just about any soil. The ground should not be too moist or prone to mold or mildew. When full grown, the flowers may be cut and dried upside down. They can be added to herbal tea with a little peppermint and used for headaches or other mild aches and pains.

Lavender is very prolific and easy to grow. Its flowers are very fragrant and add color to landscaping. Lavender can even be grown in planters or pots indoors. It should have ample exposure to sunlight and well-drained soil. It has many uses, including to reduce stress, alleviate headaches and even to treat insomnia. Lavender oil can be used for sore muscles and joints. It is commonly used in herbal teas for headaches and relaxation. Full-grown flowers should be cut and dried for teas, but used sparingly, as lavender has a very strong flavor.

Peppermint will grow just about anywhere. It can be used as a ground cover, or to fill in space within an existing flower bed, but needs to be pruned regularly as it can quickly take over. It can also be grown indoors in small pots and planters. Peppermint is very versatile and can be used to ease upset stomachs, eliminate heartburn and indigestion, calm a cough and to treat the common cold. The oil is also used externally for arthritis. Mature leaves can be used fresh in salads or herbal teas. No drying is required.

Thyme is a well-known culinary herb that also has medicinal properties. It is antiseptic and antifungal. It is used in herbal teas to treat sinus infections and respiratory infections. It can be dried and made into herbal tea or used fresh in your favorite recipe. Thyme can easily be grown indoors in small pots or as part of a countertop herb garden. When grown outdoors, it acts as a ground cover and can fill in spaces between pavers and in rock gardens. It does require plenty of sunlight and well-drained or sandy soil. There are different varieties to choose from, including garden thyme, lemon thyme and creeping thyme.

Valerian is flowering plant that is used to treat insomnia and alleviate stress. It has mild sedative and tranquilizing properties. It should not be taken with alcohol, as this can exacerbate its effects. Valerian grows best in damp, rocky areas. It is native to North America and Europe. It is actually the root or the rhizome which has the medicinal properties. As the plant grows, it should be trimmed to encourage growth of the roots. The roots can then be harvested, dried and used in herbal teas or ground and put into gelatin capsules.