In an ideal world, we would each have our personal list of top ten garden

herbs, tailored to our particular climate and health concerns. My hope is

that the information below inspires you, as jumping board of sorts, in
creating your own unique dream medicinal herb garden. I chose each
plant based on its ease of cultivation and medicinal usefulness and
versatility.

Calendula (Pot Marigold)

Calendula officinalis, Asteraceae. Calendula is one of the most familiar and beloved
herbs, earning our affection with its cheerful golden flowers. The petals are edible and
the whole flower is an important medicinal herb in treating skin conditions. Calendula is
found in topical ointments, salves and creams. This flower holds an interesting claim to
fameit is the herb most likely to be found in diaper rash ointments and creams. I plant
calendula close to my front porch so I can enjoy the blooms, and watch the hum of
pollinator activity all summer long.
The sunshiny yellow-orange flowers are an edible garnish for salads, cakes, and soups.
The flowers are also incorporated into oils and salves for healing wounds, rashes, burns,
and dry skin. Calendula flowers are used internally in teas, tinctures, and broths as an
anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, lymphagogue (stimulates the lymphatic system),
emmenagogue (stimulates the menses), and digestive anti-inflammatory. It is one of my
favorite remedies, along with meadowsweet and licorice, for GERD (Gastroesophageal
reflux disease) and peptic ulcers.
Calendula prefers full sun and average garden soil. It is easily grown from seeddirect
sow or start early in pots; the seedlings are somewhat cold tolerant. Calendula does well
as a container plant, hence the common name pot marigold. Plant 10-14 apart; grows
to 18 tall. Calendulas sticky flowers must be picked every two to three days to ensure a
longer flowering season. Calendula will usually self-sow unless you mulch heavily. It is
typically grown as an annual, but can be cultivated as a short-lived perennial in warmer
climes (Zone 8-10). For more details on growing and enjoying calendula, please visit my
article here.
Motherwort
Leonurus cardiaca, Lamiaceae. Motherwort is one of the easiest herbs to grow and is a
highly versatile medicinal. It is one of my favorite remedies for anxiety and stress. It is
taken as a tincture or tea to lessen pain, such as: headaches, menstrual cramps, and
muscle sprains and aches. I will add that motherwort is quite bitter, so I often
recommend it as a tincture over a tea. It is many womens ally in menopause for easing
hot flashes and hormonal- induced irritability. Motherwort is also used in childbirth to
help strengthen contractions; it is the only herb I used giving birth to my daughter!
Finally, motherwort fully lives up to its name in helping to increase parental patience.
Many mothers find that motherwort softens the edginess brought on by sleep
deprivation, endless laundry and dishes, and uppity wee folk.

Motherwort is a short-lived herbaceous perennial, plant in full sun to part shade. Hardy
to Zone 4. Plant 18-24 inches apart; grows 3 to 5 tall. The seeds can be stratified (placed
in damp sand in the refrigerator) for two weeks before planting, and will generally
germinate in one week if placed in a warm spot, such as a greenhouse or sunny window.
In cooler climates, it can take over and become quite weedy, so you may want to plant it
where it can do its thing without stepping on anyones toes. Motherwort easily
transplants; consider asking a neighboring herbalist if you can dig up any extra plants.

Passionflower
Passiflora incarnata, Passifloraceae. Passionflower is a native vine to the southeastern
United States, with gorgeous flowers and interesting foliage. It is weedy in much of its
native range and fairly easy to grow elsewhere, especially if given a wall or trellis to climb.
The leaves and flowers are an important nervine sedative and are used to help promote
sleep and alleviate pain, such as menstrual cramps and headaches.
Passionflower is a short-lived, perennial herbaceous vine. Plant 3 feet apart and trellis, it
will grow up a 5 fence or trellis by the end of summer. Passionflower loves full sun, and
will bloom more profusely, especially if you live further north. If you live in a hot climate,
consider planting passionflower where it will get shade by mid-afternoon. Plant in well
drained to average garden soil. Hardy to Zone 6, frost-tender. Scarify the seeds by
rubbing them between sandpaper and then place them in damp sand in the refrigerator
for one to two months. Be patient, sometimes it may take months for the seeds to
sprout, and germination may not happen all at once. Bottom heat, a warm greenhouse,
or planting in late spring will all enhance germination.
Passionflower will spread throughout the garden if its happy, which may make you
happy, or not very, depending on how big your garden is. Its easy enough to pull up any
runners emerging in an inopportune location, and either transplant them or give them to
your uptight neighbor. And then just when you think you cannot contain the vines
exuberance, and begin to see it as a nuisance, it will up and die from heartache. Actually,
it is just a short-lived perennial, no need to take it personally you may simply need to
replant it after three years or so. For more on the ecology and medicine of passionflower,
please see my article, and here is my article on saving passionflower seed.

Echinacea or Purple Coneflower

Echinacea purpurea, Asteraceae. Purple coneflower is one of the most popular garden
ornamentals with its showy purple flowers that attract all manner of butterflies and bees.
Not only is it gorgeous, it is easy to growEchinacea is a decidedly unfussy plant,
withstanding drought, disease and insect infestations. Purple coneflower (another name
for Echinacea) roots, seeds, and fresh flowers are all medicinal, and can be made into a
tingly tasting, immune-stimulating tea or tincture.
Echinacea is an herbaceous perennial, plant in full sun for the best flower production, 1-
2 apart; grows to 3-4 tall. This is the easiest species of Echinacea to grow in most garden
soils. Sow in greenhouse trays or directly in the ground in early spring. Germinates in 2-3
weeks. To improve the germination rate you may cold condition (stratify) the seeds for
two weeks prior to planting. It will begin flowering the second year, and will be two or
three years old before the roots are ready to harvest. Echinacea seeds are relished by
gold finches and will self-sow if left on the plant over winter.

Holy Basil (Tulsi)

Ocimum sanctum syn. O. tenuiflorum, Lamiaceae. This close relative of common basil is
native to India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and has gained recent popularity as a tasty herbal
tea. Holy basil is highly aromatic and antimicrobial; the leaves and flowers are used as a
medicinal tea for colds, coughs, asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, headaches, arthritis,
diabetes, stress, and anxiety. Its adaptogenic effect offers an uplifting energy and helps
with mental clarity and focus. Culinary uses: fresh leaves can be added to salads and are
used as a more pungent version of basil. Holy basil pesto is divine!
Perennial in Zone 10 and warmer, grown elsewhere as an annual; 1-2 tall by 6 -1 wide.
Plant holy basil in full sun in average to moist garden soils. It is easy to grow from seed,
but take care not to plant the seed too deep (its tiny) and it will germinate better with
bottom heat. If your greenhouse gets too cold at night, tulsi will be slow to sprout, and
also slow to grow. Plant outside after the danger of frost has passed. Holy basil may
appear puny when you first plant it, leaving you to wonder if it has some botanical
failure-to-thrive syndromeperhaps you spoke too harshly with it when you were
transplanting itdo not go to that dark place of plant parent guilt. When the days grow
longer and the nighttime temperatures warm, it will take off!
Several harvests can be obtained in one year: simply cut back the mature plant to 8
inches and it will re-grow quickly. As with culinary basil, cutting back the early flowers
helps the plant to fill out and promotes more vegetative growth.

Meadowsweet (Queen of the

Meadow)
Filipendula ulmaria, Rosaceae. This stately herb is native to meadows in Europe. The
flowers are quite attractive, growing in large white billowy clusters, and are traditionally
used to flavor meads; hence its former name of Meadwort. The leaves and flowers have
a pleasant wintergreen aroma and flavor, and are used internally for inflammation,
fevers, heartburn, and peptic ulcers. Most people, including finicky children, love the
tasty tea. Meadowsweet is a wonderful tonic for arthritis with its anti-inflammatory
salicylates. It is naturalizing in northeastern US and can spread from seed, although I
have yet to see it wild in North Carolina.
Meadowsweet is a hardy perennial, it grows to 4 tall, and 2.5 wide. Plant in full sun or
part shade. Zone 2-8. It is much easier to grow from division than seed, which requires a
complicated stratification regime. Any little piece of the root will take hold, and grow a
new plant. A wet meadow, streamside or the edge of a pond are all perfect spots for
meadowsweet. If you havent such a spot, try planting it in a low dip in the garden and
water it during drought. If you live in a southern climate, meadowsweet will be happier
with a little afternoon shade and a wet spot to dip its feet during the heat of the day. In
cooler climates, meadowsweet will tolerate more sunshine and drier soils, and even
regular garden soil will nurture the growth of beautiful healthy plants.

Southern Ginseng (synonyms

Jiaogulan or Sweet Tea Vine)
Gynostemma pentaphyllum, Cucurbitaceae. Jiaogulan is a popular folk herb in Southeast
Asia where it is grown as an affordable substitute for ginseng (Panax spp. Araliaceae). It
is gaining popularity in the Western world, where it is used as a tonic for longevity and
vitality. It is also given to racehorses to improve their performance. The leaves are
brewed into a medicinal tonic tea for anxiety, stress, depression, high blood pressure,
and high cholesterol. This vine is an easy-to-grow adaptogenic tonic, which contains
some of the same compounds (ginsenosides) found in Asian and American ginseng.
Sweet tea vine is quite bitter, contrary to its name; it has a flavor reminiscent of ginseng
with mild soapy undertones. As you are likely aware of, sweet tea (black tea with copious
amounts of white sugar) is the beverage of choice for many southerners. When I had my
herb nursery, well-dressed ladies would inquire, with a southern syrupy drawl, about
sweet-tea vine, thinking they had hit the jackpota sweet tea they could grow
themselves!
Southern ginseng is an herbaceous perennial vine; it grows 4 tall by indefinitely wide;
Part shade, moist rich soil; Hardy to 10 degrees F. Jiaogulan will locally spread vigorously
by runners and can become a troublesome weed if consumption does not outpace
proliferation. Sweet tea vine makes a beautiful container plant. Grow from division, as
seeds are not readily available. Southern ginseng can be hard to come by, see the
resource section below for nurseries that carry it.

Spilanthes (Toothache plant)

Acmella oleracea, Asteraceae. This striking plant has golden, globe-shaped flowers with a
red center, leading one seed company to market them as eyeball plant. Spilanthes is an
interesting plant to behold and to taste! It is one of the strongest sialagogues (saliva-
promoters) I know; even a tiny nibble from one of the flowers will set your mouth to
drool. The tingly numbing sensation affords relief to toothaches, and is used in many
tooth and gum formulas, as it is anti-microbial, stimulating, and acts as an oral anodyne.
All the aboveground parts are medicinal, and can be chewed fresh in moderation or
made into a tincture. I often put it into formulas with Echinacea as an immune stimulant
for augmenting the bodys internal defenses against the common colds and flu.

Spilanthes is grown as an annual, plant it in average to rich soil and full sun; water during
dry spells. It grows to 1 tall, space 1 apart. Direct sow after danger of frost has passed or
sow in the greenhouse for a head start. Toothache plant easily transplants and will self-
sow if you dont mulch too heavily. The self-sown sprouts take their time coming upI
dont usually see them until June here in the southern Appalachians, so you may want to
start the seeds fresh every year to get a head start on the season. You can cut harvest
the plants a few times during the growing seasoncut the plants back to 6 inches, and if
theres still time left before frost, they will regrow nicely. Protect the plants from slugs, as
they will devour itslug candy, indeed! Spilanthes is one of the easiest to grow medicinal
herbs, and kids absolutely love it! One to two plants will yield over a quart of tincture.

Stinging Nettles
Urtica dioica, Urticaceae. Nettles is a highly revered, nutritious spring green, eaten
steamed or in soups and stir-fries. The sting disappears when the leaves are cooked or
dried. The greens and tea of nettles are high in minerals, vitamins, and chlorophyll,
namely Vitamin A and C and calcium, potassium, magnesium and iron. The leaves and
seeds are used medicinally in teas, and as a food, for allergies, arthritis, and as kidney
tonic. Nettles is a highly useful garden plant if placed wisely in the landscape. It is
considered a perennial vegetableit does not need to be planted from seed each year,
but comes back from the roots year after year, making it less energy-intensive to
cultivate than many annual crops.

Nettles is an herbaceous perennial; growing 3-4 tall by indefinitely wide; full sun to part
shade, rich moist soil. Zone 4-8. It will spread prolifically by runners; plant it out of the
way or inside a semi-buried barrier. Try planting nettles in a wet meadow (away from
human activity) or an old compost or manure pile. In some locales it will spread by seed,
making containment challenging. Nettles are dynamic accumulatorsa term used to
describe plants with the ability to mine nutrients (such as N, K, P, Ca) from deep in the
soil. These nutrients are concentrated in their leaves, and then released into the soil
when the plants die or loose their leaves. Nettles can be added to compost or used as
fertilizing mulch. Many gardeners make tea out of nettles by soaking the leaves in a
bucket until fermentation occursthe tea can then be used to water plants, thus
fertilizing the plants, along with adding beneficial microorganisms. Nettle shoots emerge
in the earliest spring, you can continually harvest the tender new growth with scissors
and it will regrow, allowing for multiple harvests from the same patch.

Wild Bergamot
Monarda fistulosa, Lamiaceae. Consider inviting wild bergamot into your garden for its
beauty, medicine, and amazing ability to attract butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.
Wild bergamot is a close relative to bee balm (Monarda didyma) however, wild bergamot
will thrive in hotter and drier conditions as compared to bee balm. Both bee balm and
wild bergamot have been important medicines for Native American people. They are
used medicinally to treat infections and digestive issues, such as gas and bloating. Wild
bergamot is antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and diaphoretic (brings on a sweat to
break a fever). I like to use the dried leaves and flowers in a steam inhalation to help
break up upper and lower respiratory congestion. Wild bergamot has a pungent aroma
and flavor and can be enjoyed in tea or prepared as a tincture. The lavender flowers are
edible and can be used as a garnish or tossed in salads for an extra splash of color. The
leaves can be mixed with basil to create a pungent twist on the classic pesto.

Wild bergamot is an herbaceous perennial; it grows 3-4 tall by indefinitely wide. Full sun,
average to well-drained soil. Zones 3-8. The seeds are Lilliputian-tiny and must be
planted on the surface of the soil and misted or bottom watered (to avoid burying them
too deep in the soil). For most gardeners, its easier to purchase a plant or divide a bit of
the root from a friends plant. Wild bergamot spreads vigorously by runners, similar to
mint. Plant it where it can go hog wild, or contain it with a rhizome barrier, as you would
for mint or bamboo.
https://chestnutherbs.com/the-top-ten-medicinal-herbs-for-the-garden/

The ability to synthesize a wide variety of chemical compounds that are used to perform
important biological functions, and to defend against attack from predators such as insects,
fungi and herbivorous mammals is called herbal medicine. Many of
these phytochemicals have beneficial effects on long-term health when consumed by
humans, and can be used to effectively treat human diseases. At least 12,000 such
compounds have been isolated so far; a number estimated to be less than 10% of the total.
[1][2]
These phytochemicals are divided into (1) primary metabolites such as sugars and fats, which
are found in all plants; and (2) secondary metabolites compounds which are found in a
smaller range of plants, serving a more specific function.[3] For example, some secondary
metabolites are toxins used to deter predation and others are pheromones used to attract
insects for pollination. It is these secondary metabolites and pigments that can have
therapeutic actions in humans and which can be refined to produce drugsexamples
are inulin from the roots of dahlias, quinine from the cinchona, morphine and codeine from
the poppy, and digoxin from the foxglove.[3]
Chemical compounds in plants mediate their effects on the human body through processes
identical to those already well understood for the chemical compounds in conventional drugs;
thus herbal medicines do not differ greatly from conventional drugs in terms of how they
work. This enables herbal medicines to be as effective as conventional medicines, but also
gives them the same potential to cause harmful side effects.[1][2]
In Europe, apothecaries stocked herbal ingredients for their medicines. In the Latin names for
plants created by Linnaeus, the word officinalis indicates that a plant was used in this way. For
example, the marsh mallow has the classification Althaea officinalis, as it was traditionally
used as an emollient to soothe ulcers.[4] Ayurvedic medicine, herbal medicine and traditional
Chinese medicine are other examples of medical practices that incorporate medical uses of
plants. Pharmacognosy is the branch of modern medicine about medicines from plant
sources. Plants included here are those that have been or are being used medicinally, in at
least one such medicinal tradition.
Modern medicine now tends to use the active ingredients of plants rather than the whole
plants. The phytochemicals may be synthesized, compounded or otherwise transformed to
make pharmaceuticals. Examples of such derivatives include Digoxin,
from digitalis; capsaicine, from chili; and aspirin, which is chemically related to the salicylic
acid found in white willow. The opium poppy continues to be a major industrial source of
opiates, including morphine. Few traditional remedies, however, have translated into modern
drugs, although there is continuing research into the efficacy and possible adaptation of
traditional herbal treatments.

Acacia senegal Gum arabic It might be useful for dental plaque and weight loss.[5]
Achillea Common The herb is purported to be a diaphoretic, astringent,
millefolium yarrow [6] tonic, stimulant and mild aromatic.

Actaea Black Historically used for arthritis and muscle pain, used more recently for
racemosa cohosh conditions related to menopause and menstruation.[7]

Aesculus Horse Its seeds, leaves, bark, and flowers have been used medicinally for
hippocastanum chestnut many centuries. The raw plant materials are toxic unless processed.[8]

Ageratina White Root tea has been used to treat diarrhea, kidney stones, and fever. A
altissima snakeroot root poultice can be used on snakebites.[9]

Hollyhock is believed to be an emollient and laxative. It is used to

Alcea Common
control inflammation, to stop bedwetting and as a mouthwash in cases of
rosea hollyhock
bleeding gums.[10]

Alisma plantago-aquatica Water-plantain The plant is used for the urinary tract.[11]

It is widely used as an antibiotic[12][13][14][15] and, more recently, for

Allium treating cardiovascular disease[16][17] Garlic is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor and
Garlic
sativum has antidepressant-like effects on mice[18]so might be used as a herbal antidepressant
or anxiolytic in humans.[19]

The leaves are widely used to heal burns, wounds and other skin ailments.[20]
Aloe vera Aloe vera
[21]

It has been used for over 2,000 years as both a food and a
Althaea officinalis Marsh-mallow
medicine[4]

Amorphophallus The plant is a significant dietary source of glucomannan,[22][23] which

Konjac is used in treating obesity,[24] constipation,[25] and reducing cholesterol.
konjac [26]

Anemone Common Historically used to treat liver diseases, it is still used in alternative medicine
 today. Other modern applications by herbalists include treatments
hepatica hepatica
for pimples, bronchitis and gout.[27]

The roots have been used in the traditional Austrian medicine internally as
Angelica Garden tea or tincture for treatment of disorders of the gastrointestinal tract,
archangelica angelica respiratory tract, nervous system, and also against fever, infections, and
flu.[28]

Angelica It has been used for thousands of years in Asia, primarily in women's
Dong quai
sinensis health.[29]

Apium The seed is used only occasionally in tradition medicine. Modern usage is
Celery
graveolens primarily as a diuretic.[30]

It has been used traditionally as a diuretic and to lower blood sugar[31]and,

Arctium
Burdock in traditional Chinese medicine as a treatment for sore throat and symptoms of
lappa
the common cold.[32]

The plant is used as an anti-inflammatory[33] and for osteoarthritis.[34] The US Food

Arnica and Drug Administration has classified Arnica montana as an unsafe herb because
Arnica
montana of its toxicity.[35] It should not be taken orally or applied to broken skin where
absorption can occur.[35]

It has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine to strengthen

Astragalus
Astragalus the immune system, and is used in modern China to treat hepatitis and as
propinquus
an adjunctive therapy in cancer.[36]

Although toxic, was used historically in Italy by women to enlarge their

Atropa
Belladonna pupils, as well as a sedative, among other uses. The name itself means
belladonna
"beautiful woman" in Italian.[37]

Used in India to treat worms, malaria, rheumatism and skin infections among
Azadirachta
Neem many other things. Its many uses have led to neem being called "the village
indica
dispensary" in India.[38]

The flowers have been used in the traditional Austrian medicine internally as tea (or
Bellis
Daisy the leaves as a salad) for treatment of disorders of the gastrointestinal and
perennis
respiratory tract.[39]
Calendula Also named calendula, has a long history of use in treating wounds and
Marigold
officinalis soothing skin[44]

Its active ingredient, capsaicine, is the basic of commercial pain-relief ointments

Capsicum
Chili in Western medicine. The low incidence of heart attack in Thais may be related to
frutescens
capsaicine's fibronolytic action (dissolving blood clots).[48]

Carica papaya Papaya The plant is used for treating wounds.[49]

The plant is used in a wide variety of roles in traditional medicine, including

Cassia Coffee in particular as a broad-spectrum internal and external antimicrobial, for liver
occidentalis senna disorders, for intestinal worms and other parasites and as an immune-system
stimulant.[50][51]

Centaurea In herbalism, a decoction of cornflower is effective in

Cornflower
cyanus treating conjunctivitis and as a wash for tired eyes.[53]

Chrysopogon zizanioides Vetiver It is used for skin care.[54]

Along with other citruses, it has a long history of use in Chinese and Indian
Citrus
Lemon traditional medicine.[57] In contemporary use, honey and lemon is common for
limon
treating coughs and sore throat.

Crataegus Its fruit has been used for centuries for heart disease.
monogyna and Crataegus Hawthorn Other uses include digestive and kidney related
laevigata problems.[61]

It dates back to ancient Roman and Greek medicine, when it was used to
Equisetum
Horsetail stop bleeding, heal ulcers and wounds, and treat tuberculosis and kidney
arvense
problems.[69]

Eschscholzia Californian The plant is used as an herbal remedy: an aqueous extract of the
californica poppy plant has sedative and anxiolytic actions.[71]

Eucalyptus Eucalyptus The leaves were widely used in traditional medicine as a febrifuge.
 [72]Eucalyptusoil is commonly used in over-the-counter cough and cold
globulus
medications, as well as for an analgesic.[73]

Euphorbia It has been used traditionally in Asia to treat bronchitic asthma and
Asthma-plant
hirta laryngeal spasm.[75][76] It is used in the Philippines for dengue fever.[77]

Ginkgo The leaf extract has been used to

Ginkgo
biloba treat asthma, bronchitis, fatigue, Alzheimer's and tinnitus.[85]

It has been used as a "lung herb".[86]Other traditional uses include as an

Glechoma expectorant, astringent, and to treat bronchitis.[87] The essential oil of the
Ground-ivy
hederacea plant has been used for centuries as a general tonic for colds and coughs,
and to relieve congestion of the mucous membranes.

It has a long history of medicinal usage in Eastern and Western medicine.

Glycyrrhiza Licorice
Uses include stomach ulcers, bronchitis, and sore throat, as well
glabra root
as infections caused by viruses, such as hepatitis.[88]

The leaves are used as herbal medicine to alleviate cough and fever, pain,
and general gastrointestinal disorders as well as to cure dermatologic
Hippophae Sea
disorders. Similarly, the fruit juice and oils can be used in the treatment of
rhamnoides buckthorn
liver disease, gastrointestinal disorders, chronic wounds or other
dermatological disorders.[90]

Hypericum St. John's Widely used within herbalism for depression. Evaluated for use as
perforatum wort an antidepressant, but with ambiguous results.[93][94][95]

It has been claimed to have various effects on human health and these effects
have been attributed to the high quantity of polyphenols found in mate tea.
Ilex Yerba
[96] Mate contains compounds that act as an appetite suppressant,[97]increases
paraguariensis mate
mental energy and focus,[98]and improves mood.[99] Yerba mate also contains
elements such as potassium, magnesium, and manganese.[100]

Jasminum It is used in dermatology as either an antiseptic or anti-inflammatory

Jasmine
officinale agent.[103]

Laurus Bay Aqueous extracts of bay laurel can be used as astringents and even as a reasonable
nobilis laurel salve for open wounds.[107]In massage therapy, the essential oil of bay laurel is
 reputed to alleviate arthritis and rheumatism, while in aromatherapy it is used to treat
earaches and high blood pressure.[108]

Aqueous extracts of bay laurel can be used as astringents and even as a reasonable
Laurus Bay salve for open wounds.[107]In massage therapy, the essential oil of bay laurel is
nobilis laurel reputed to alleviate arthritis and rheumatism, while in aromatherapy it is used to treat
earaches and high blood pressure.[108]

It was traditionally used as an antiseptic and for mental health purposes. It

Lavandula
Lavender was also used in ancient Egypt in mummifying bodies. There is little
angustifolia
scientific evidence that lavender is effective for most mental health uses.[109]

It has been used over thousands of years for a variety of

Matricaria
conditions, including sleeplessness, anxiety, and
recutita and Anthemis Chamomille
gastrointestinal conditions such as upset stomach, gas,
nobilis
and diarrhea.[114]

Sacred lotus has been the subject of a number of in-vitro and animal studies,
Nelumbo exploring its pharmacologic effects, including antioxidant, hepatoprotective,
Lotus
nucifera immunomodulatory, anti-infective, hyperlipidemic, and psychopharmacologic
activity[122] although clinical trials are lacking.

Used as an abortifacient in folk medicine in some parts of Bolivia and other

northwestern South American countries, though no evidence of efficacy exists
Origanum in Western medicine. Hippocrates used oregano as an antiseptic, as well as a
Oregano
vulgare cure for stomach and respiratory ailments. A Cretan oregano (O. dictamnus) is
still used today in Greece as a palliative for sore throat. Evidence of efficacy in
this matter is lacking.

Used medicinally, in particular in Asia, for over 2,000 years, and is widely used
Panax spec. Ginseng
in modern society.[127]

The plant is the plant source of morphine, used for pain relief. Morphine
Papaver Opium made from the refined and modified sap is used for pain control in terminally
somniferum poppy ill patients. Dried sap was used as a traditional medicine until the 19th
century.[citation needed]

Rosmarinus officinalis Rosemary It has been used medicinally from ancient times.
Salvia Shown to improve cognitive function in patients with mild to
Sage
officinalis moderate Alzheimer's disease[145][146]

Sandalwood oil has been widely used in folk medicine for treatment
Santalum Indian of common colds, bronchitis, skin disorders, heart ailments, general
album sandalwood weakness, fever, infection of the urinary tract, inflammation of the mouth
and pharynx, liver and gallbladder complaints and other maladies.[148]

It has been used as a remedy to treat itchy skin conditions and pulmonary
diseases.[158] 17th century herbalist John Gerard recommended it as a remedy
Stellaria Common
for mange. Modern herbalists prescribe it for iron-deficiency anemia (for its
media chickweed
high iron content), as well as for skin
diseases, bronchitis, rheumatic pains, arthritis and period pain.[159]

Tanacetum The plant has been used for centuries for fevers, headaches, stomach
Feverfew
parthenium aches, toothaches, insect bites and other conditions.[165]

The leaves and the bark are used to treat coughs, sore
Trema
Charcoal-tree throats, asthma, bronchitis, gonorrhea, yellow fever, toothache, and as
orientalis
an antidote to general poisoning.[171]

Uncaria It has a long history of use in South America to prevent and treat
Cat's claw
tomentosa disease.[176]

It was used historically as a vulnerary and for urinary

Vaccinium
Cranberry disorders, diarrhea, diabetes, stomach ailments, and liver problems.
macrocarpon
Modern usage has concentrated on urinary tract related problems.[181]

Valeriana It has been used since at least ancient Greece and Rome for sleep
Valerian
officinalis disorders and anxiety.[183]

Por qu hay tanto post dando vuelta sobre los huertos urbanos? Que si no es en el patio, ser en la
terraza y si no, hasta colgados de la ventana. Para quienes han hecho la prueba, saben que el asunto va
ms all de lo esttico, y no se trata de ponerse esotricos, sino simplemente abrazarse a los hechos
empricos: Lo natural tiene un sabor distinto a lo envasado y -agrrense bien de la silla que esta s que es
primicia-, tiene un mejor sabor.

En el caso de las hierbas, tenerlas en casa hace que uno se vaya a la segura. Si se compra el envase, al
venir molidas, pueden ser perfectamente palitos de la planta y no la hoja, la raz o la flor, que es lo que
contiene la mayora de las propiedades. Eso s, es trabajo.
Hay que tenerlas frescas, podarlas a menudo para que as conserven su aroma y sabor, ya que si se
marchitan, ni lo esttico ni lo benefactor nos queda. Para que esto no pase, existe un truco llamado "tintura
madre", que consiste en macerar la planta para conservar sus propiedades en alcohol etlico. Es sencillo
pero son varias las instrucciones as que les dejamos un video tutorial.

Menta

El mentol tiene propiedades como antisptico natural de tipo intestinal y anestsico, ayuda a eliminar el
mal aliento. Evita la formacin de gases en el estmago. Se usa en dolores reumticos y musculares,
afecciones respiratorias (resfros, gripes, bronquitis y sinusitis). La esencia de menta es estimulante del
sistema nervioso, siendo ingerida usualmente como t o gotas.

El Centro Nacional de Medicina Complementaria y Alternativa (NCCAM), dice que no hay pruebas que
sustenten propiedades antipirticas o antiinflamatorias del aceite de menta. Las pruebas cientficas que
sustentan posibles mejoras en las molestias digestivas son preliminares.

Atencin: Es importante no usarlo en menores de dos aos, personas con clculos biliares y mujeres que
amamantan, ya que podra reducir el flujo de leche.
Manzanilla

Una de las mejores amigas del sistema digestivo: Ayuda a combatir los trastornos intestinales, gastritis,
lceras gastroduodenales, vmitos y digestiones lentas, muy adecuada para el dolor de estmago.
Adems, aumenta la secrecin de bilis, protege el hgado, es diurtica, antiulcerosa y alivia los dolores de
la menstruacin. Por su contenido de aceite esencial, ayuda tambin a cicatrizar y desinfectar heridas, al
tener una accin antibitica, antimicrobiana y contra los hongos. Tambin ayuda frente a cuadros
nerviosos.

La medicina tradicional ha empleado la camomila como antiinflamatorio, sedante e, incluso, contra las
lceras estomacales durante siglos. Hace poco un estudio britnico dio con cul era la gracia de sus
propiedades: Eleva los niveles de dos sustancias (la glicina y el hipurato) que son relajantes musculares y
nerviosos.
Ruda

Estresado? Ansioso? Problemas para dormir? Su hierba es la ruda. Tambin tiene entre sus poderes
ser antiespasmdico y un remedio digestivo. Su infusin es recomendada para trastornos digestivos y
clicos . Lo ideal es tomarlo despus de las comidas.

Atencin: Su consumo debe ser moderado ya que en grandes cantidades puede provocar hemorragias y
convulsiones. Esta hierba est contraindicada en embarazadas y no se debe tomar de forma concentrada
o durante mucho tiempo, ya que podra ser txica y producir lceras, vmito y otros males.

De manera externa, se utiliza en dolores reumticos, sarna, eccemas, conjuntivitis y hasta piojos.
Llantn

Saquen papel y lpiz para escribir el listado de beneficios que tiene esta planta: Tanto sus hojas como
semillas y raz tienen efectos antiinflamatorios, cicatrizantes, diurticos, expectorantes, antispticas,
anticancergenos y antibacterianas, adems de ser utilizada en casos de lceras estomacales. Su infusin
es muy recomendada para sanar la tos y bronquitis.

Atencin: Cuidado con hacer las infusiones muy concentradas, porque puede tener un efecto
antihipertensivo o muy laxante. Adems, las embarazadas deben evitar su consumo.

El doctor e investigador Carlos Kozel explica de forma acaba las propiedades de esta hierva en su libro
Consejero de Medicina Natural I: Plantas.
Matico

Dicen que debe su nombre a un soldado espaol, que us la planta para calmar una hemorragia y sali
airoso de la situacin. Es un poderoso cicatrizante en todo tipo de heridas, tanto internas (lceras
digestivas, disfuncin heptica) como externas (cortes en la piel). Adems de ser un buen analgsico,
combate los hongos.

La evaluacin farmacolgica de extractos seriados obtenidos a partir de las hojas ha permitido demostrar
las propiedades antiinflamatorias va oral y tpica, analgsica va oral, cicatrizante y antioxidante de los
extractos hexnico, de diclorometano y metanlico, resultando ms activos los dos ltimos.
Toronjil/Melisa

Si no eres un "operado de los nervios", puede que esta sea la planta que te ayude a serlo. El toronjil se
emplea frecuentemente en infusiones de relajacin, contra la ansiedad y depresin, adems de actuar
como sedante y protector de la memoria. Se usa para reanimar desmayos, en problemas cardacos como
palpitaciones, para calmar los nervios y angustias, y dolores de cabeza.

Atencin: Su uso no se recomienda en menores, embarazadas, mujeres en perodo de lactancia ni

personas con tratamiento de hormonas tiroideas.

Preparacin: echar una cucharada de la hoja en un litro de agua hervida y se toma hasta tres veces al da.
Albahaca

Adems de su gran poder para transformar una pizza o un plato de tallarines en una delicia, esta planta
tambin tiene propiedades medicinales. Se usa para combatir los clicos, el dolor estomacal,
estreimiento, los dolores menstruales y los microbios. Es una gran compaera para cuando el cuerpo no
sabe cmo adaptarse al estrs. Favorece la digestin y la expulsin de gases.

Preparacin: echar una cucharada de hojas en un litro de agua recin hervida y no se debiera tomar ms
de una taza, tres veces al da. Cuando se quiera usar como laxante, se debe ingerir en ayuno o antes del
almuerzo.
Boldo

Se hizo popular hace cientos de aos por ayudar a la digestin y su rol como sedante. Las infusiones de
hojas de boldo tambin son muy tiles para tratar el estreimiento, adems de favorecer la expulsin de
los gases. Se recomienda para aquellas personas que padecen clicos y flatulencias. Tambin reduce el
riesgo de padecer clculos biliares y depura el hgado.

Atencin: Las personas que tengan clculos renales deben estar bajo vigilancia mdica si quieren ingerir
esta infusin. Adems, el t no debe ser muy concentrado ni tomarse por tiempos muy prolongados.

Preparacin: Su preparacin y dosis es igual a la de las hierbas anteriores, y se debe evitar su uso en el
caso de sufrir ictericia, de estar embarazada o tener menos de 10 aos de edad.
Tomillo

Esta es otra de esas hierbas todo poderosas: Ayuda a disminuir los dolores estomacales, es un
estimulante digestivo, antisptica, rica en hierro por lo que ayuda a prevenir la anemia, ayuda a los dolores
menstruales, funciona como un leve somnfero, y se usa en tratamientos contra parsitos intestinales y
malestares respiratorios, que van desde amigdalitis hasta bronquitis. Hasta para el mal aliento sirve.

Atencin: Se debe evitar en embarazadas y mujeres en etapa de lactancia, sin la vigilancia mdica.
Romero

Avanzada la edad, la hipertensin se empieza a poner de moda. Bueno, entonces debera ir acompaada
de infusiones de romero, porque ayuda a tratarla, al igual que la gente que sufre de sobrepeso y cada de
pelo. Tambin se usa como remedio natural para las personas con asma y problemas respiratorios en
general, debido a que contiene sustancias antiinflamatorias que actan sobre la inflamacin pulmonar.

Atencin: Se debe evitar su consumo en embarazadas y en caso de colitis o afecciones prostticas.