Remedy plants: let you garden heal you

A beautiful garden is nice to look at but wouldn’t it be great if it could heal you or help you when you were sick? It’s easy to grow healing plants in your garden so that you can save money on expensive medications.

Here’s 10 of our favourites:

1. Calendula

Calendula (or marigold) is an antiseptic, anti-fungal wound healer! This cheery yellow flower can soothe your skin, so it’s no surprise it’s found in many cosmetics.

When to grow: all year round, in a sunny spot

2. Cilantro/Coriander

Coriander is a unique plant with an interesting flavour that you either love or hate (thanks to your genes), but it is a digestive aid that cleanses your body of heavy metals and toxicity.

When to grow: during colder months

3. Lemon balm

Sometimes mistaken for mint, lemon balm is a calming plant with fragrant leaves. Your nervous system will thank you for giving it some relaxing lemon balm! It is especially good when used on the skin as it can help get rid of cold sores without using nasty chemicals.

When to grow: in warmer months (use fresh!)

4. Peppermint

Peppermint is a familiar flavour – it’s in toothpaste, chewing gum and even chocolate – but it’s strong medicinal properties are lesser known. If you have a stomach bug or cramps, peppermint works wonders.

When to grow: year-round in the shade

5. Aloe vera

Aloe vera has long been known for it’s healing and soothing properties. Put aloe vera on cuts, scrapes, rashes or any skin irritation and feel instantly cooled down.

When to grow: in warmer months in full sun

6. Rosemary

If you need energy, pop into your garden and grab some rosemary! This herb is a stimulant that sharpens memory and concentration by bringing more oxygen to your brain. If you’re not much of a coffee drinker or you’re on a health kick, rosemary tea is a great alternative.

When to grow: year-round

7. Thyme

Diarrhea and stomach cramps can be very uncomfortable but if you have thyme in your garden, it could relieve it. Also, if you or your grandkids are having bad dreams, some sweet thyme tea could ward off nightmares!

When to grow: year-round, in full sun

8. Lavender

The smell of lavender is very recognisable but it is filled to the brim with health benefits. Lavender alleviates stress, tension, and insomnia. It’s also used in creams to treat sunburns and acne.

When to grow: summer, in a hot, sunny and dry environment

9. Basil

This medicinal herb can help with flatulence, lack of appetite, cuts, and scrapes, not to mention it tastes great in many different meals and recipes.

When to grow: year-ground

10. Echinacea

If you suffer from a cold or the flu, try this medicinal herb to ease your symptoms – it’s found in over the counter medications. It also helps provide relief to your immune system.

When to grow: summer months, full sun or light shade

What plants do you grow in your garden to help you? Tell us about them below!