Sustainable living advocates recommend growing a medicinal herb garden to help provide some of the necessities you and your family may need to survive. One woman’s journey from city dweller to country farmer and medicinal herb grower was recently chronicled on Mother Earth News if you are interested in reading more on the subject.
Medicinal herbs have been used in many cultures and for thousands of years. They are reputed to boost the immune system, increase resistance to infections, aid in treating allergies and much more.
If you are looking to start slowly then you can try the following 4 healing plants and branch out from there.
- Thyme is strong natural antibiotic and boosts immunity. It is also an effective decongestant and can help with fight bronchitis, whooping cough, and upper respiratory tract inflammation. Additionally, it can help fight parasites and acts as anti-fungal. Used in tea, it relieves headaches and menstrual pain.
- Garlic contains several ingredients which make it a powerful antibiotic, antiviral, and fungicidal agent. It can reduce blood pressure, boost immunity and help level out your cholesterol. High in anti-oxidants including Vitamin C, garlic can prevent cardiovascular system inflammation and oxidative stress and protect blood vessels. It aids in digestion and helps remove toxins and metals from your body.
- Mint minimizes stomach upset and helps digestion. It can be used in teas or added to salads. It can help those with irritable bowel syndrome and help control harmful bacteria in the stomach. Some use it to help with congestion in the nose and throat.
- Cilantro is useful in removing toxins and heavy metals from the body. Imbued with antioxidants and dietary fiber, cilantro can help reduce LDL or bad cholesterol and increase HDL or the good cholesterol. It acts as an anti-inflammatory and supports cell survival and cell growth.
Once you see how these herbs can help improve your overall health, look for others to add to your medicinal herb garden.
Be sure to check out Theresa's other columns:
Self-Sustained Living Examiner
Southern Illinois Day Trips Examiner
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