Sisyphus Acres

herbs, teas, and roots...oh my!

Here is the latest on my newly planted herb garden ~ I am so excited!

Any and all information contained here is strictly for informational purposes only, I am not an herbalist ~ please consult your physician, herbalist or naturopath before using any herbs described here.

The Herb Garden

Ahhh well….this is our new garden this year ~ and it has been loads of fun starting it ~ we have a huge way to go, but here is the start, such as it is…The herbs I am growing, why I am growing them and what is considered their primary medicinal value (according to Herbal Encyclopedia). 

Peppermint ~ I love peppermint tea, and have planted both chocolate mint and spearmint as well for teas ~ used as a digestive aid, to de-stress, to help with colds and congestion ~ considered an antiviral, antibacterial, anti-spasmodic

Lemon verbena ~ again for tea ~ yummy lemon/lime flavor ~  uses are like those of mint, orange flowers, or melissa, as a stomachic and antispasmodic in dyspepsia, indigestion and flatulence

Chamomile ~ tea (see a pattern here?) ~  considered soothing tonic/sedative, antispasmodic, antacid, fever reducer, relieves heartburn, indigestion, lessens emotional upset, calm nerves, relieves headache, lessen cold symptoms, to relieve menstrual cramps

Borage ~ can be used in a tea, flowers are good in salad, taste like cucumbers ~ leaves are fuzzy ~ the seeds are high in gamma linoleic acid (GLA). For colds and Flu, it is taken as an infusion to promote sweating, and aides in assisting the lungs. *long term use may cause liver problems

Rosemary ~ seasoning ~ but I also use it it my herbal hot-packs as rosemary helps relieve headaches

Cilantro ~ for seasoning ~ salsa and cilantro lime chicken ~ considered an antibacterial and fungicide

Tarragon ~ seasoning ~ considered an Anti-Bacterial, used to treat Insomnia, Toothache, Upset stomach Intestinal Worms, Hyperactivity, Depression

Pineapple sage ~ seasoning and tea ~ considered an antiseptic, good for sore throats, also may boost insulin action and may benefit those with diabetes

Basil ~ for pesto, of course!

Lavender ~ Lavender lemonade, mmmmmm ~ relaxes and calms, mild to moderate anti-fungal properties

Chives ~ seasoning ~ high in vitamin C, folic acid and potassium

Dill ~ seasoning (Ilove dill) and for pickling ~ Dill dispells flatulance, settles the stomach, stimulates the appetite and relieves colic.

Thyme ~ seasoning ~ considered an Antiseptic, antispasmodic

Catmint ~ for the cats! ~ considered to ease stomach pains, expells gas, Induces perspiration, relieves smooth muscle spasms, stimulate menstrual flow, Nerve tonic, Eases breathing, Reduces fever

Echinacea ~ for the root, possibly tea ~ considered an immune system booster, antiseptic, antibacterial, detoxicant (not for use for those with immune system disorders)