Grow Your Own Healing Herbs

Garden herbs can give you a healthy boost and bring a burst of flavour to your food

- SUSIE KEARLEY

The Power Of Herbs

Herbalists have been extolling the healing power of herbs for centuries, and some traditional remedies have seen a resurgence in popularity. Herbs are easy to grow in your garden or on the window sill. Sage, mint, nettle and rosemary are all good choices. Many herbs shoot year after year with little effort. They make a tasty addition to your meal and many have health benefits. To enjoy a herbal tea, simply infuse a few fresh, clean leaves in hot water and leave to brew.

Let's take a look at the medicinal properties of some common garden herbs.

Mint

Mint is a herb used to freshen breath, calm an overactive or irritable bowel, and provide a feeling of freshness and vitality. It grows in sunny positions and spreads quickly. The essential oil is the main medicinal component.

Mint leaves can be used as herbal infusions in tea, added to salads, or used to make mint sauce, which is typically served with lamb and vegetables.

Mint's health benefits are largely related to its ability to relax the muscles. It can also be used as a digestive aid and it may be beneficial for people fighting infections due to its natural anti-viral activity.

Sage