Grown in containers or beds, inside or out, herbs are a great garden staple
Spring is a time to prepare for gardening season. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer, some of the easiest and most rewarding plants to grow in your home garden are natural herbs.
A great way to keep pesticides out of your diet, fresh herbs are also miles ahead of their dried counterparts when it comes to taste and texture. And, if you’re looking for health benefits, fresh herbs have long been a staple in providing organic wellness.
HOW TO:
Though beginners might feel more comfortable starting with plants, herbs are grown easily from seed. Plant seeds 1/8” deep in a pot with good drainage, using a high-quality potting soil or mix. Herbs need plenty of sunshine and warm air temperatures to grow—so keep your herb garden on a windowsill until outdoor temperatures hold steady. Remember to water regularly!
Here are just a few of the benefits of three delicious and easy-to-grow herbs.
Sage
- Known to soothe sore joints and arthritis pains, sage also helps treat blemishes and breakouts, and may even enhance memory and cognitive abilities.
- Sage is also a wonderfully fragrant plant. Native American cultures believe its aroma has spiritually cleansing properties.
Rosemary
- Like sage, rosemary has a strong, vibrant scent. Both herbs share the same molecular structure, and help alleviate sore joints and indigestion.
- A study published in Bioscience, Biotechnology and Biochemistry showed that rosemary may have an effective anti-tumor agent. The same antioxidant properties that alleviate sore joints may strengthen cells against cancer.
Basil
- Basil features a unique array of flavonoids that protect cells from oxygen-based damage, and may strengthen cells against cancer and cardiovascular disease. It is also an excellent source of iron.
- It can reduce the secretion of cortisol, which is stimulated by stress, and may help you relax.