The Healing Garden

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Healing Garden

What plants are great for me and my garden?

I love to use fresh herbs from my garden and create healthy dishes. Below are some of my suggestions for the best herbs to plant in Houston, Texas.There is only 1 word to describe our weather- HOT! So, these herbs can take the heat but still require some TLC. The herbs listed below have healing powers along with great flavors to add life to your meals!

Basil- Basil sustains the Texas heat, but best to place it in a covered area. In Chinese medicine, basil is said to alleviate qi stagnation. Qi stagnation presents with irritability, pain, depression, and can lead to fatigue. Add basil to your Chinese, Thai, pastas, or soup recipes for great flavor and great health benefits!

Holy Basil- It has so many positive properties. It’s anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, pain relieving effects, makes this herb one of my favorites. Traditionally, Indians put holy basil, or tulsi, into black teas. This herb can also be eaten alone.

Chili peppers- Chili peppers contain capsaicin, which gives the strong, pungent flavor. Research shows that capsaicin properties are anti-bacterial, anti- carcinogenic, analgesic, and anti-diabetic. Vitamin C is also an important property in chili peppers. Vitamin C is important for our collagen repair.  Chili peppers come in a variety of intensities, colors, and colors. Generally, yellow and green peppers contain the least amount of vitamin C and carotene.  Peppers are a good source of vitamin B.

Spearmint- Research indicates that this herb may be used for hirsutism (excessive hair growth) in women. Can also be used to lower free testosterone levels in the blood.  Spearmint has antifungal properties in addition to creating a calming effect.  This herb is a great antioxidant and even helps with stomach pain and gas. Spearmint tea is a wonderful after dinner treat!

Oregano- This herb dates back to the ancient times. Hippocrates used oregano for sore throat, antiseptic and respiratory aid.

Lemongrass- This antifungal, fragrant plant is also known as “citronella grass”. Planting lemongrass next to tomatoes and broccoli can be beneficial in warding off insects. especially mosquitos. However, it does attract honeybees. This herb can be used in teas, soups, and curries.

Turmeric- Turmeric is a root that does grow readily in Houston. Curcumin, turmeric’s star component, delays liver damage from cirrhosis. It can also prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s disease, certain cancers, and help decrease high cholesterol.  Though the herb has been used for centuries, research is still ongoing on its benefits and risks. This herb is contraindicated for pregnancy. To see health benefits, dosage should be 2 grams per day.

Curry Leaves- This aromatic herbs possess anti-diabetic properties. It is very fragrant and is often used to bring life to curry dishes.

Rosemary- Need to remember more? Rosemary may be your answer. This common herb has been known to improve memory functioning. In addition it is also very good for treating gout.  To decrease muscle inflammation, try crushing the rosemary leaves and place in a warm bath. Soak and relax in the bath.

Aloe Vera- This herb is the best beauty secret in your back yard. This plant is rich in Vitamin C, which is essential for beautiful skin. To help smoothen wrinkles, fine lines, and create more even toned skin, rub aloe vera on your face twice daily. Cut the hard green part of the leaf off to expose the inside sticky plant. Rub the sticky clear gel over your skin and let dry before applying make up.

REFERENCES:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spearmint

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