Alternative religions and homeopathic health treatments are often connected. Whether you’re a practicing pagan or simply someone who appreciates the power of plants, it can be fun to learn about the bountiful herbs of the season and their applications. From teas to tinctures, the herbs of summertime can be used in a variety of ways to treat all sorts of common ailments. The beauty of herbs is that they can easily be grown right in your own garden. Take a look at the secrets of these plants and discover how they can be put to good use.
Lemon Balm
A member of the mint family, lemon balm is a staple when it comes to herbs of summer. For centuries, this plant has been considered useful in promoting a sense of relaxation in someone who is feeling tense. According to academics, healers in the Middle Ages would frequently use lemon balm to help people sleep or improve a person’s mood. Today, many teas are made with this plant in order to encourage a sense of peace. There are also digestive properties to the herb, which can make it a helpful botanical option for easing the discomfort of indigestion.
Mint
Though it might be associated with drinks and candies of the winter, mint is an herb that can be found everywhere in the summer. Like lemon balm, it has a long and involved history in the healing arts. It has long been considered a huge help in treating stomach pain, digestion problems, nausea, and other gut-related ailments. Mint also produces an oil called menthol that contains antibacterial properties. This makes it a suitable choice to ensure that bacteria doesn’t collect around a wound or sore.
Basil
Though a delicious herb to mix into a meal, basil’s usefulness does not stop in the kitchen. Basil is known to contain nutrients that help support the liver. By improving the function of this organ, you help your body with vital detoxification processes. Additionally, basil is known to promote digestion and encourage a healthier gut. Some people even use it to treat the symptoms of depression, though it is usually best to visit with a professional if you are feeling mentally unwell for long duration.
Nettles
While the name might not inspire confidence on a healing front, stinging nettles have some amazing medicinal properties. The roots or leaves are often brewed into a tea, which is said to soothe inflammation. Nettles have been used across the centuries to treat the symptoms of hay fever and to control the size of an enlarged prostate. There are also several studies to suggest that stinging nettle might have a positive effect on maintaining balanced blood sugar levels, though further research is needed in this particular area.
Oregano
Another culinary favorite, oregano is a summertime herb that packs a powerful punch when it comes to health. Oregano is said to contain a multitude of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins E and K, calcium, and iron. Plus, it contains a good amount of fiber and can be useful for encouraging a healthy digestive system. In the past, oregano has been used to treat several conditions, including asthma, arthritis, and bronchitis. While the oil is primarily used to treat coughs and other lung ailments, it can also be used as a way of calming the symptoms of menstrual cramps.
The herbs of summertime can serve a wide variety of practical purposes. From cooking a delicious meal to treating some common digestive troubles, you can easily work fresh herbs into your daily routine. Learn more about how to grow these plants yourself and discover the true power these herbs contain.