CULINARY HERB GARDEN

By Herbalist Linda Kingsbury Ph.D.

Code=Plant common name – popular uses

Growing cycle – flower color-most often parts used

BASIL  - colds, eases digestion, anxiety

annual – white or purple flowers - leaves, whole plant

Great for Pesto, this aromatic green kitchen herb is high in vitamin A & C. A tea made with the leaves has mild antiseptic properties and can be taken at the first signs of colds and flu.

CHIVES – sulfur-rich oil to lower blood pressure,

Perennial – purple flowers - flower head and stalks

Edible purple flowers and green stalks add to salads, dips, and soups.

CILANTRO  - high in chlorophyll and vitamin C

Annual – use before it flowers - leaves

For a spicy flavor add these edible leaves to sandwiches, salads, sauces, and pesto.

DILL  - freshens breath, high in calcium, digestive aide

Annual - light yellow flowers – seeds, leaves

The dried leaves make a natural salt substitute. A tea made with the seeds relaxes the smooth muscles of the digestive tract and helps prevent intestinal gas.

MINT - stomachache, headache, fever

Perennial – white flowers - leaves

The leaves make a cooling tea for the digestive system. Chewing on a peppermint leaf was the original breath mint. Add the leaves to salads and rice dishes.

NASTURTIUM – natural antibiotic action, peppery taste

Annual - yellow, white, orange flowers – flowers, leaves, seeds

Bright yellow, orange, and white flowers add color to any salad or sandwich. These peppery-tasting flowers and leaves are high in sulfur and provide natural antibiotic action.

SAGE – mouth gargle, aids in digestion of high fat foods

Annual – purple flowers – leaves, flowers

Natural antibacterial properties and astringent action makes it good for a sore throat gargle and mouth wash. Add to apple cider vinegar for a salad dressing and poultry stuffing for flavoring.

THYME – skin care, congestion, anti-oxidant

Perennial - leaves and purple flowers

Anti microbial properties make it good for skin care. To make a rinse steep 2 Tbls. Herb in 1 cup water. Add to bath or facial wash. Make a decongestant steam by pouring 2 cups of water over a 2 Tbls. of herbs in a cereal bowl. Create a tent over your face and head with a towel and inhale the aromatic steam to ease sinus and bronchial congestion.