Author, Jean Pullen
GROWING A MEDICINAL GARDEN FOR YOUR OWN APOTHECARY CAN BE INCREDIBLY BENEFICIAL FOR SEVERAL REASONS:
1. Self-sufficiency:
By growing your own medicinal herbs, you can reduce your dependency on store-bought remedies and have a sustainable source of natural healing options right in your own backyard.
2. Quality control:
When you grow your own herbs, you have full control over how they are cultivated, harvested, and prepared. This ensures that you are using high-quality, organic herbs free from pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
3. Cost-effective:
Purchasing medicinal herbs and remedies can be expensive, especially if you use them frequently. By growing your own herbs, you can save money in the long run and have an affordable solution for your healthcare needs.
4. Customization:
When you have your own medicinal garden, you can tailor your remedies to suit your specific health needs and preferences. You can experiment with different herbs and formulations to find what works best for you.
5. Connection to nature:
Cultivating a medicinal garden can deepen your connection to nature and the healing power of plants. Spending time in your garden can be therapeutic and grounding, providing a sense of peace and well-being.
Overall, growing a medicinal garden for your own apothecary not only provides you with a sustainable source of natural remedies but also offers a rewarding and empowering experience of taking charge of your health and well-being.
When Jean was living in the city of Seattle she still grew these top medicinal plants in pots and brought them inside by the sunlit window in the winter time. Now Jean is growing over 50 medicinal plants in her garden apothecary in Costa Rica (Another regenerative article to come with that list).
Top 5 medicinal Plants to grow anywhere in the world:
1. Basil:
Basil is a popular herb with medicinal properties, known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant effects. It is often used to aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and promote overall health.
2. Aloe Vera:
Aloe vera is a well-known medicinal plant with soothing and healing properties. It is commonly used to treat sunburns, wounds, skin conditions, and promote skin health due to its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing effects.
3. Rosemary:
Rosemary is an aromatic herb with medicinal benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is used to improve digestion, enhance memory and concentration, and as a natural remedy for headaches and muscle pain.
4. Mint:
Mint is a versatile herb with medicinal properties that can help alleviate digestive issues, reduce nausea, and soothe headaches. It is also known for its cooling and calming effects on the skin and respiratory system.
5. Lavender:
Lavender is a fragrant herb with calming and relaxing properties. It is commonly used in aromatherapy to reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and promote relaxation. Lavender oil is also used topically for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Here is is our top 5 medicinal plants in the tropics we grow:
1. Gota Cola:
Gota Cola, also known as Centella Asiatica, is a herb with potential benefits including wound healing, cognitive function support, antioxidant properties, skin health improvements, and anti-anxiety effects.
2. Neem:
Neem tree is widely used in tropical regions for its antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It is utilized in traditional medicine for treating skin conditions, infections, and promoting overall health.
3. Turmeric:
A common spice in tropical regions, turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is used traditionally to treat a range of ailments including digestive issues, arthritis, and skin conditions.
4. Ginger:
Widely used for its medicinal properties, ginger is known for its anti-nausea, anti-inflammatory, and digestive benefits. It is commonly used in tropical regions to alleviate nausea, cold symptoms, and digestive issues.
5. Moringa:
Rich in nutrients and antioxidants, the leaves, seeds, and flowers of the moringa tree are used in tropical regions for their medicinal properties. Moringa is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, and is used to boost immunity and treat various health conditions.