Herbs & Herbalism

The common dandelion is generally considered a weed, but it has amazing health benefits. The leaves contain high levels of potassium and act as a diuretic, increasing urine output. The roots have been studied for anticancer activity and are a good prebiotic, supporting gut health.

Mullein is a medicinal plant often found in meadows and pastures and can be safely foraged. It has been used to treat pulmonary problems, inflammatory diseases, and asthma, among other conditions.

Clover is often used as a cover crop to feed livestock, however, it's a powerful medicinal herb. Its known for it's anti-inflammatory properties, and also used for skin disorders, respiratory issues, chronic toxicity, and menopause symptoms.

Lemongrass is used as a fragrance and for flavoring in Asian cuisine. In herbal medicine, it's used for pain relief, inflammation, and gastrointestinal disorders. 

Asparagus is vegetable full of antioxidants and vitamins, but the newly formed shoots, the roots, and the rhizomes are also used medicinally. Uses include treatment of joint pain and hormone imbalances in women.

Chamomile is an aromatic herb with many medicinal uses. It is commonly used for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-allergenic, and sedative or calming properties. It also makes a great addition to your vegetable garden, as it is said to repel cucumber beetles.

Despite it's delicate appearance, Yarrow has been known throughout history as a powerful wound healer. It is used as an anti-inflammatory, anti-allergenic, and to lower blood pressure. Combined with other herbs, like peppermint and elderflower, it helps colds and flu. An all-around great herb to have in the garden!

Sometimes called wild bergamot or bee balm, Bergamot is an aromatic, showy perennial with ragged pompom-like lavender, pink, or white flowers. Medicinally, it has antibacterial, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory properties, among others, and is used to help colds, flu, nausea, fevers, and cough. Also topically for skin issues.

Goldenseal is a popular medicinal herb which at one point was nearly harvested to extinction. Prized for it's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it's often used to help with upper respiratory infections and other bacterial infections.

You often find Goldenseal combined with echinacea to aid with common colds; and it's infusions are useful as a remedy for psoriasis. 

Plantain is right up there with dandelion as one of the most useful “weeds” used medicinally. It has many uses, including treating bruises, ulcers, liver issues, irritable bowel syndrome, and poor digestion. However, it’s use as a poultice for skin issues, like insect bites or skin infections, is by far its crowning glory!

Black Cohosh is a well known medicinal herb typically used to ease menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes. While Black Cohosh does not contain estrogen, it does have an estrogenic action within the body due to a specific hormonal effect within the brain. 

Because of its help with women’s issues traditional Native American healers called it squaw root.

As an added bonus, when planted in the garden, it repels some insects due to its off-putting scent.  

Cleavers is a creeping perennial, weedy herb that is somewhat sticky and is found growing almost everywhere.

It is used to help with enlarged lymph nodes where infection is suspected and works best when combined with other anti-infectives, like echinacea or goldenseal. The cleansing and lymphatic effects make it useful in treatment of chronic skin disorders including eczema, acne, urticaria, and psoriasis as well.

The berries from the Chaste Tree are most well know for use to regulate hormones due to their progestogenic properties, but may also with other gynecological problems and help with difficulty in breastfeeding.

Research also indicates that chaste berry increases melatonin levels aiding with sleep issues.

Meadowsweet, also known as queen of the meadow, is an herb in the rose family. It contains salicylates, compounds that can have anti-inflammatory effects on the body.

It has been used in traditional herbal medicine to alleviate joint pain, arthritis, colds, and stomach ulcers.

Ashwagandha is best known for reducing anxiety and tension, as well as combating chronic stress by reducing cortisol and blood pressure levels.

Research also suggests it may be helpful in reducing inflammation in the body.

Historically used in traditional Chinese medicine, Sweet Annie was used to treat malaria. After extensive research, its key constituent, artemisinin, was shown to have powerful antimalarial activity.

Medicinally it's not only considered antimalarial, but also antiparasitic. Research is currently underway on anti-cancer actions the plant may also contain.

Holy Basil, like culinary or sweet basil, is native to India, where it's considered sacred. It's considered to have significant medicinal properties - notably its ability to reduce blood sugar levels.

In Ayurvedic medicine, Holy Basic has a wide range of uses, from easing fevers to boosting immunity and reducing stress, and is considered a "whole health tonic."

Chickweed is a versatile and valuable herb with a wide range of health benefits. This humble plant is predominantly known for its potent anti-inflammatory effects and skin soothing and moisturizing properties. 

Being rich in vitamins (A, C, and B), minerals (iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and zinc) and antioxidants (flavonoids and saponins) makes it a terrific addition to a balanced diet as well!

Milk thistle, is a prickly plant renowned for its liver-protective properties, aiding in detoxification and promoting liver regeneration. It also possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, which can support overall health and improve skin conditions. 

Additionally, milk thistle may help manage blood sugar levels and support digestive health. 

Feverfew is most well-known for its ability to prevent and reduce the severity of migraines. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate arthritis symptoms and other inflammatory conditions. 

Additionally, feverfew may aid in reducing fever and managing menstrual discomfort. 

(1) Before using or consuming any plants or herbs, always consult with your health practitioner.

(2) Use caution when wild sourcing. Select plants where herbicides have not been used.

(3) These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.