In an era where many people have switched to applying modern medicines because of their immediate reactions, medicinal herbs still seemingly force their way in the trend. Plant herbs despite being very cheap and easy to come across, they have since time memorial been hailed for their tremendous functions in tackling health problems.
Charles Lukooya, a professional Agricultural Trainer and Gardener at the School of Gardening and Landscaping CIDI gives an insight of six medicinal herbs that every family should consider planting in their backyard gardens;
Lavender
Lavender is a very attractive flowering perennial crop that originates from the mint family. It usually grows well under direct sunlight and does not need much watering which makes it able to last for several years.
The herb can be planted in beds, pots or even left to grow on fence borders and garden walls because it can act as a natural pest repellant. It’s scent deters mosquitoes in addition many other flies from getting close to your home.
On the health part, Lavender can be smeared on wounds from insect bites or added to oil and smearing jellies. The herb is also usually added to hot water for drinking to treat cramps in ladies. It can also be used as a beverage or added to cocktails and other foods like meat or chicken.
Rosemary
The herb is also good for cooking because of its attractive aroma in it, it is usually added to meat, chicken, and many other foods prepared at home.
Rosemary is also a perennial plant and it can live for more than two years. It also belongs to the mint family and is very comfortable growing under direct sunlight.
Like many other herbs, rosemary too can be used for treatment. It helps to alleviate muscle pain, improve brain functioning, boost the immune system, and promote hair growth. The herb not only tastes good in culinary dishes such as rosemary chicken and meat, but it is also a source of iron, calcium, and vitamin when consumed.
Celery
Celery is a marshland plant that is usually cultivated as a vegetable. It can be eaten when it is raw or cooked. Like lavender, celery is also a good mosquito repellant. The plant is very common and can be found in markets.
Celery extracts are used in the manufacturing of traditional medicines including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and antioxidant agents. The herb also helps reduce high blood pressure, fight and liver complications, urinary tract infections, asthma and fever, and rapid vomiting.
Basil
Basil is a leafy green herb that also originates from the mint family. Popularly known as a food seasoning, the herb is usually added to tea and other food supplements, providing a range of health benefits.
The herb is a source of vitamin K and it is most widely used to heal stomach upsets, boost appetite, and also help to heal wounds from insect bites. However, Basil should generally be used in small quantities because it can cause body complications.
Oregano
Oregano is also a perennial crop from the mint family. The herb has been widely used as a diet supplement as well as an aromatic oil.
Oregano just like celery provides antioxidants when consumed. This helps to reduce cholesterol levels which makes it effective in treating health-related problems including skin sores, aching muscles, asthma, cramps in women, diarrhea, colds, and indigestion occurrences.
Mints
Like we have seen many of these medicinal herbs lie in the mint family, mints come in different types including paper mint, pineapple mint, chocolate mint, spearmint, and water mint among others.
They usually have an attractive smell which explains why they are used in making cakes, toothpaste, beauty products, sweet Pepsi, and chewing gum among others. Mints are used to provide fresh breath. They also help in boosting digestion and fighting respiratory problems including cough.