From stomach aches to insomnia, botanical cures used to be the go-to remedy in the earlier century. Synthetic medicines is what we all use now, but the botanical remedies still remain the most effective cures. But you don’t need a green thumb or even a backyard to grow your own set of healing herbs- all you need is a little space by a window, a pot, and some soil.
ALOE VERA
Aloe Vera is that wonderful cactus looking plant that can be grown in your garden or a pot on your porch. It is perfect to have on hand for burns, sunburn, bruises, bug bites, and anything that burns or irritates the skin. Just cut off one of the long fleshy leaves, wash it, cut it right down the centre and scoop out the gel and put it directly on the irritated skin.
THYME
Easy to grow, the aromatic plant has been used for millennia to treat anything from foot fungus to melancholia. The antiseptic qualities of thyme make it the perfect addition to a bacteria-killing morning mouthwash. Boil a few sprigs in a cup of water with a dash of sea salt. Let everything cool, then strain the leaves, and you’ve got yourself a natural (and fresh!) mouthwash.
PEPPERMINT
Mint plant is something every home will have growing peacefully in a pot. It does not need special care at all, just water them frequently. Mint is a great caffeine alternative. It gets the blood moving and clears the head. Peppermint is high in volatile oils, so you can get an energy boost from the steam rising from a cup of home-grown tea.
GINGER ROOT
Take the root and break it into pieces and plant the sections that look like they have one or two bumpy nodes on them. It will then shoot up green leaves and the roots will grow into bigger clumps. Ginger is good for stomach issues. If you suffer from nausea, gas, menstrual cramps or bloating, ginger tea is a soothing remedy that works pretty quickly. Take a piece of root about the size of half of your thumb and cut off the tough skin. Then cut it up into pieces and simmer it in water for about 15 minutes. Strain the tea into a cup and add honey or stevia, and drink it down!
CAYENNE PEPPER
Did you know that cayenne is easy to grow, and can be made into a tincture? Tinctures can preserve the herb and extend the shelf life and potency for several years. Internally, it encourages circulation and increases digestive secretions. It will increase sweating to help break a fever. Externally, it reduces pain, stops bleeding, and can be used as a counter-irritant to bring blood to an area, thereby helping the body to reduce inflammation and speed recuperation from an injury.
GARLIC
Garlic is one of the most valuable and versatile foods on the planet. Garlic promotes the well-being of the heart and immune systems with antioxidant properties and helps maintain healthy blood circulation. One of garlic’s most potent health benefits includes the ability to enhance the body’s immune cell activity. Include this in your home garden and you will be healthy all year round!