Three Essential Herbs for Your Fall Medicinal Garden by Lisa Williamson

Three Essential Herbs for Your Fall Medicinal Garden

Lisa Williamson (@UrbanAlternativz)

Here on the East Coast of the United States days are getting cooler and shorter, and for many people, the shift from outdoor to indoor pursuits intensifies. I have loved my outdoor garden all summer; the herbs, the vegetables, and flowers have been simply amazing. However, if you are like me and maintain a medicinal herb garden, you may be thinking about what you can grow and harvest indoors during the fall and winter. Whether you use herbs in recipes, teas, or tinctures there is nothing quite as satisfying as knowing that the journey to good health can begin a few steps into your kitchen.As you prepare for your in-home medicinal herb garden, here are three plants that you can easily grow

indoors:

1. Rosemary

Known for its anti-inflammatory properties and a source of antioxidants, rosemary is believed to help boost the immune system. It is also considered a cognitive stimulant, helping to improve brain health. Growth Tip: This plant likes well-drained soil and bright light. Put it in a south-facing window and mist the foliage once or twice a week.

2. Cilantro (Coriander)

Coriandrum sativum (in many parts of the world the leaves and seeds are called coriander while in the U.S. the leaves are call cilantro) is a culinary herb used frequently in Asian, Central American, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Traditionally, cilantro is also recognized for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, as well as being effective in decreasing blood sugar. Growth Tip: Cilantro does not always transplant well from an outdoor garden, so start growing cilantro indoors from seed.

3. Spearmint

Spearmint is commonly used to help relieve indigestion, nausea, and bloating. The plant also is believed to be effective in fighting bacterial infections, improving memory, and reducing stress. Growth Tip: A window box (the plant likes sun) with well-drained potting soil is ideal for growing mint indoors. Keep your mint plant watered and moist. These herbs are just a snapshot of the many that you can grow for your culinary and wellness needs. As we learn about the power of herbs and flowers during our Herbalism month here at Brown Girl Yoga Tribe, you will gain the knowledge to customize your garden for your particular

wellness goals. Happy planting!