Fwd: [S-A] [HerbalSpirit] 9 Herbs to Grown on Your Windowsill

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" Misty L. Trepke "

Tue, 26 Aug 2003 19:08:15 -0000

[s-A] [HerbalSpirit] 9 Herbs to Grown on Your Windowsill

 

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Misty L. Trepke

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Nine Herbs to Grow on Your Windowsill

 

Did you know sage can combat carpal tunnel syndrome and oregano is a

powerful antioxidant? Many common herbs do more than add flavor to

your meals: they go into overtime to work on asthma, arthritis, and

insomnia.

 

Here's a quick list of nine herbs that are easy to grow, followed by

advice on how to get started. Holly Shimizu, a renowned

horticulturist and garden designer, and AllHerb.com's advisor on

gardening, gives a green " thumbs up " to these.

 

1. Mint

Aromatic spearmint and peppermint do more than add a little zest to

your cup of tea: they are also a traditional treatment for

gallstones. The oils of these effective antioxidants ease muscle

tightness, and chewing on mint sprigs can relieve an upset stomach.

 

2. Rosemary

Distinguished by its narrow, spiky leaves and piney scent, rosemary

varies in color from shiny dark green to pale gray-green all over.

Known as the herb of remembrance, rosemary contains several

antioxidants that help prevent aging in cells and may work against

Alzheimer's disease.

 

3. Lemon balm

Also known as melissa, lemon balm relieves chronic fatigue syndrome

and can be helpful in treating migraines. A tea made with lemon balm

can also work as a sedative and a stomach soother. Its bright green

heart-shaped leaves give off a lovely lemony scent.

 

4. Thyme

Thyme's pungent scent comes from the oil in the small oval leaves.

Apply a compress of thyme leaves to the aching muscles in your neck,

shoulders, and back if you're prone to tension headaches. A cup of

thyme tea taken up to four times a day may be effective against

bronchitis and whooping cough.

 

5. Sage

Available in numerous varieties, sage is a strongly aromatic, bushy

plant with spiky purple flowers. Loaded with anti-inflammatory

compounds, sage is effective against carpal tunnel syndrome.

Steep two teaspoons of dried sage in a cup of boiling water and

gargle with it (after it has cooled) to treat mouth and throat

inflammations.

 

6. Oregano

The robust taste of oregano comes from its soft, oval leaves that

grow in pairs along the stem. Its power punch of antioxidants can

help maintain the immune function of those who are HIV-positive.

Good for arthritis, asthma, and emphysema, oregano also contains

seven compounds that lower blood pressure.

 

7. Parsley

A rich source of the bone-strengthener flourine, parsley works to

prevent osteoporosis. Apply crushed parsley leaves to reduce the

black and blue colors of a bruise. Parsley comes in two varieties:

curly parsley and the taller, flat-leaf Italian parsley. Eat a sprig

for a quick breath freshener and to aid in digestion.

 

8. Lavender

Fragrant flowers characterize the spiky leaves and colorful blooms

of lavender. Aromatherapists routinely use oil of lavender for pain;

mix a few drops of lavender oil with a tablespoon of vegetable oil

and massage the painful area. Sprinkle a few drops on your bed

sheets to help you sleep, or relax in a warm bath scented with

lavender oil.

 

9. Catnip

The downy, gray-green leaves of catnip are a favorite of cats, so

keep this herb off your windowsill if you don't want your cats

playing in your plants. A member of the mint family, catnip

has a mild tranquilizing effect on most people. Try a cup of catnip

tea about 45 minutes before bedtime to induce sleep.

 

Note: All these herbs can grow from one to three feet tall, so keep

them trimmed. Herbs are safe moderate doses, but like any medicine,

some can be harmful when taken in frequent, large doses. Herbal oils

are intended for external use only. Keep such oils away from small

children who might be tempted to taste them.