Your Windowsill Herbs.....I thought you would like this.

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Your Windowsill Herbs

 

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.

 

Try these herbs:

1. Mint

2. Rosemary

3. Lemon balm

4. Thyme

5. Sage

6. Oregano

7. Parsley

8. Lavender

9. Catnip

 

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. Or 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.

 

What you need to get started:

1. Containers

Plastic pots (inexpensive and retain moisture) or clay pots (they

breathe and thus require frequent watering). A wooden planter or a

terra-cotta container will also do.

 

2. Soil

Mix your own soil with sand, compost, lightener, and fertilizer (good

for long-term growing over several seasons) or purchase a bag of potting

soil (good for a few containers for one season).

 

3. Plants

Purchase small herb plants from your local nursery, over the Internet,

or through a mail-order catalogue. Also, acquire seeds, cuttings, and

root pieces from friends and gardeners.

 

4. A sunny windowsill, water, and a little patience.

 

 

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Never be afraid to try something new.

Remember amateurs built the ark. Professionals built the Titanic.