Healing garden herbs to grow

Chamomile

90881 — White petals and golden centres of chamomile flowers

A tea can be brewed from the flowers and used to ease insomnia. An antispasmodic herb, chamomile is also good for nervous stomach upsets when used in moderation.

Fennel

90882 — Yellow fennel flowers against a blue sky

When you're suffering wind or stomach cramps, a cup of fennel seed tea can ease the pain. Put one teaspoon of seed in a cup, pour over boiling water, let it stand, then strain before drinking. Chew fennel seeds after a rich meal to freshen breath and settle the stomach.

Feverfew

Eat two fresh feverfew leaves at the onset of a migraine. Eat them with bread, because they taste quite bitter.

French tarragon

The aniseed-flavoured leaves of French tarragon (Artemisia dranunculus) stimulate digestion and help the body to break down fatty foods that are high in cholesterol.

Garlic

90880 — Garlic bulbs drying on a wooden table

When eaten regularly, garlic can lower blood fat levels, including cholesterol, and reduce the chances of getting blood clots.

Hyssop

A tea made from hyssop leaves is an excellent tonic if you have a cough or cold, as it's a gentle decongestant and expectorant. However, avoid it if you're pregnant.

Peppermint

Try a cup of peppermint tea the next time you have indigestion or feel bloated after a meal. Put a handful of fresh or dried leaves into a mug, pour over boiling water, and allow it to stand for five minutes. Put a lid over the top to stop the steam dissipating the essential oils.

Rosemary

Tea made from fresh rosemary leaves helps stimulate the memory and clear a hangover. Drink in moderation, as too much can be harmful.

Lavender

Not only is lavender a tonic for the nervous system, it's also a calming sedative. Add a few drops of lavender oil or a handful of lavender flowers to a bath, or make a bath bag. Wrap lavender sprigs in a piece of muslin, tie it up and hang it under a running tap.