8 Medicinal Herbs Our Ancestors Grew In Their ‘Home Apothecary’ by: Eron Drew for Off The Grid News
Herbs are an important part of most home gardens, especially on a homestead. When life was a little harder than it is today and doctors were few and far between, homesteaders would turn to their herb garden in times of sickness.
Below are eight of the most useful herbs our ancestors Grew. Grow them to create your own in-home apothecary.
Basil. Certainly one of the most common herbs grown in the home garden, basil is also praised for its antibacterial properties. The fluid in basil leaves can help eliminate the risk of infection when applied as a poultice to minor wounds. Boiling the leaves in water along with sea salt and cloves can create a tea to fight off influenza. Boiling basil leaves with honey and ginger can create a tea that fights colds, coughs, bronchitis and the inflammation associated with asthma.
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Parsley. Although most people use parsley as a garnish, it is an incredibly powerful medicinal herb, as well. Parsley contains a number of volatile compounds that inhibit the growth of tumors. It also is rich in vitamin C, and it has been shown to be useful in reducing the effects of rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Additionally, it is rich in anti-oxidants and has been used to treat urinary tract infections, kidney stones, constipation, indigestion, anemia and high blood pressure.
Oregano. This popular herb contains powerful antiviral and antibacterial qualities. Currently, oregano oil is being studied in both its liquid and vapor form for its ability to kill listeria and hospital strains of MRSA. Oregano also is being studied for its ability to slow tumor growth in breast cancer patients and as a potential control method for type-2 diabetes.
Valerian. Although less common than some of the other herbs, valerian root is incredibly effective at treating sleep disorders. The name itself is derived from the Latin valere — to be in health. Valerian is especially useful in calming an overly stimulated nervous system (i.e. it’s good for fighting stress).
