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Organic Herb Gardening

 "And may we ever have gratitude in our hearts that the great Creator in all His glory has placed the herbs in the field for our healing." ~Edward Bach

Basil is an herb with a timeless legacy symbolizing love and devotion. Its unique aroma stimulates the senses. Basil is rich with antioxidants, vitamins C,K, and A, manganese, and iron. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Using basil oil topically on small wounds and irritations helps soothe and heal skin. It is also used to help prevent and treat acne.

The flowers and leaves of Basil are edible. The leaves are commonly used for culinary purposes popular in Italian and Thai cuisine. Purple basil is a cultivar of Sweet Basil and can be substituted for such in recipes.

"Behold, I have given you every herb yielding seed, which is on the surface of the earth, and every tree which bears fruit yielding seed. It will be your food." Genesis 1:29 WEB

Organic herb gardening in containers is a simple and efficient way to grow fresh herbs with limited space or when soil conditions are not ideal. All that is required are 12-inch fabric pots, organic soil and plants. You can also grow herbs from seed and then transplant the seedlings into bigger pots when they are ready for more growing space. 

Fabric pots work well for almost any herb and they allow the plants to breathe. They are also a good way to keep mints from taking over a garden. Another benefit to using fabric pots is good drainage and moisture control. Over and under watering are remedied, keeping root rot and mold away.

Fabric pots also give additional freedom for placement and arrangement. They can be picked up and moved with little effort, especially when adverse weather conditions require a bit of shelter. A variety of common herbs thrive in sunshine, such as Basil, Mints, Hyssop, Oregano, and Sage. Others like Parsley, Sorrel, and Sweet Violet do better in semi-shade. Even a small property can offer hospitality to a lovely array of herbs.

"Herbs are a friend of the physician and the pride of cooks." ~Charlemange

Lemon Verbena is known to symbolize hope, optimism, and new beginnings.  This delightfully fragrant herb can be added to beverages, jellies, and olive oil based dressings. It also makes a "good cuppa" of cold or hot tea. It is a nervine with anti-depressive and anti-anxiety effects that help to relax the nervous system by calming the body and mind. 

Cilantro symbolizes love and protection which are good for body, mind, and soul. Fresh cilantro adds bold flavor to salsas and recipes when used as a garnish or ingredient. This herb can help protect against anti-oxidative stress, soothes digestive issues, and supports heart health. 

"Everything on the earth has a purpose, every disease an herb to cure it, and every person a mission. This is the Indian theory of existence." ~Mourning Dove 

Oregano symbolizes joy, love, and romance. This beneficial herb has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. In the kitchen it adds flavor to savory dishes of lamb or chicken, potatoes, soups, casseroles, tomato based sauces, and pairs well with lemon. 


"To recognize what plants do, deepens our appreciation for their presence in our lives, individually and collectively." ~ David Crow


Mints symbolize wisdom and they have a myriad of uses and benefits. Mints are commonly added to beverages, foods, cosmetics, and household items. The leaves, flowers, stems and seeds have been used medicinally. Growing several varieties adds interest and are excellent for attracting pollinators to the garden. 


"A man may esteem himself happy when that which is his food is also his medicine." 
~ Henry David Thoreau

Harvesting mints are the highlight of gardening each year and they yield an abundance of leaves to dehydrate, crush, and store for year-long use. Mint tea is a delicious favorite, hot or iced. Mint species are anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial. They are widely used to calm the digestive system and ease upset stomachs. 

Chamomile symbolizes patience and meekness. It has been used as a digestive relaxant and may help with menstrual pain. Chamomile herbal tea is safe for most people, but should be avoided by those who are asthmatic. It contains ingredients known to lower blood pressure and manage diabetes. This herb also has anti-inflammatory properties and helps with detoxification of the body.

An excellent source of all things herbs is Mountain Rose Herbs They put people, plants, and planet before profit with everything they do. Cheers to Sustainability!

Exploring the World Day-by-Day; Capturing Nature's Wondrous Display! ~ Jen

Despite the differences that exist between political, cultural, religious, or national values, we all share the common need for a healthy, clean, sustainable global environment.

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