Nine Herbs to Grow on Your Windowsill
Source of Recipe
posted to rc by swtsara
Recipe Introduction
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.
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.
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