For thousands of years, plants have been used as a natural remedy for various ailments. Whether it’s a word or a whole plant, you can find medicinal properties in every corner of nature. From onion to yarrow, there are countless plants that offer a wide range of health benefits. And the best part is, you can grow many of them right in your own backyard.
One such plant is the French tarragon, a popular herb that can be used as a garnish or a flavor enhancer in cooking. It’s known for its aromatic and flavorful leaves, and once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s so highly regarded. Another flavorful plant is chives, which adds a mild onion-like flavor to dishes.
Agastache, also known as hyssop, is a beautiful plant that not only looks great in your garden but also has medicinal properties. It’s often used as a digestive aid and can help with upset stomachs. Another plant to consider is Ginkgo biloba, which is commonly used as a memory enhancer and to improve blood circulation. It’s a popular choice for those looking to improve their cognitive function.
Salvia, commonly known as sage, is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of ways. It’s often used to enhance the flavor of meat dishes and can also be used as a natural remedy for sore throats. Witch hazel is another plant with a long history of medicinal use. From treating acne to reducing inflammation, witch hazel has a wide range of benefits.
Chamomile is a well-known herb that’s often used to calm nerves and promote relaxation. It’s commonly consumed as a tea and is known for its soothing properties. Another herb with calming effects is valerian, which is often used as a natural remedy for insomnia. It can help you relax and get a good night’s sleep.
When it comes to medicinal plants, there are countless options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for plants to use in cooking or for their health benefits, it’s important to choose ones that are well-suited to your garden. Consider factors like your hardiness zone, soil type, and sunlight requirements, and choose plants that will thrive in your specific conditions. With a well-planned garden, you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of medicinal plants for years to come.
Collection ZONE 6 PERENNIAL PLANTS
When it comes to choosing plants for your garden, it’s important to consider the climate and growing conditions of your area. If you live in Zone 6, you have plenty of options for perennial plants that will thrive in your garden. Here are 28 powerful medicinal plants that are suitable for Zone 6:
- Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis): Lemon balm is a popular herb that is often used in teas and soups. It has a refreshing lemony scent and can be grown in sunny or partially shaded areas.
- Celery (Apium graveolens): Celery is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups and stews. It prefers moist, well-draining soil.
- Valerian (Valeriana officinalis): Valerian is a herb that is known for its calming effects. It can be used to make tea or taken in supplement form.
- Hazel (Corylus avellana): Hazel is a shrub that produces edible nuts. It prefers a sunny location and well-draining soil.
- Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Licorice is a herb with a distinct flavor. It can be used in teas or as a natural sweetener.
- Lemongrass (Cymbopogon): Lemongrass is a tropical herb that is often used in Asian cuisines. It prefers a sunny location and well-draining soil.
- Chives (Allium schoenoprasum): Chives are a member of the onion family and are often used as a garnish. They can be grown in sunny or partially shaded areas.
- St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum): St. John’s Wort is a herb that is often used to treat depression. It prefers a sunny location and well-draining soil.
- Chinese Skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis): Chinese Skullcap is a herb that is often used in traditional Chinese medicine. It prefers a sunny or partially shaded location.
- Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): Lavender is a popular herb known for its calming properties. It prefers a sunny location and well-draining soil.
- Aloe Vera (Aloe vera): Aloe vera is a succulent plant that is often used to treat burns and other skin conditions. It prefers a sunny location and well-draining soil.
- Goji Berry (Lycium): Goji berries are a type of fruit that is often used in smoothies and salads. They prefer a sunny location and well-draining soil.
- Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica): Stinging nettle is a herb that is often used to treat allergies and inflammation. It prefers moist, well-draining soil.
- Thyme (Thymus): Thyme is a versatile herb that is often used in cooking. It prefers a sunny location and well-draining soil.
- Elecampane (Inula helenium): Elecampane is a herb that is often used to treat coughs and respiratory conditions. It prefers moist, well-draining soil.
- Witch Hazel (Hamamelis): Witch Hazel is a shrub that is often used in skincare products. It prefers a sunny or partially shaded location.
- Lovage (Levisticum officinale): Lovage is a herb that is often used in soups and stews. It prefers moist, well-draining soil.
- Goldenrod (Solidago): Goldenrod is a herb that is often used to treat allergies. It prefers a sunny location and well-draining soil.
- Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba): Ginkgo is a tree that is often used in traditional Chinese medicine. It prefers a sunny location and well-draining soil.
- Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium): Wormwood is a herb that is often used to make absinthe. It prefers a sunny or partially shaded location.
- Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): Rosemary is a versatile herb that is often used in cooking and skincare products. It prefers a sunny location and well-draining soil.
- Mullein (Verbascum): Mullein is a herb that is often used to treat respiratory conditions. It prefers well-draining soil.
- Peppermint (Mentha piperita): Peppermint is a herb that is often used in teas and desserts. It prefers moist, well-draining soil.
- Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium): Feverfew is a herb that is often used to treat migraines. It prefers well-draining soil.
- Marsh Fern (Marsilea): Marsh Fern is a fern that is often used as a ground cover. It prefers moist, well-draining soil.
- Great Burnet (Sanguisorba officinalis): Great burnet is a herb that is often used to treat wounds. It prefers moist, well-draining soil.
- Trillium (Trillium): Trillium is a perennial plant that produces beautiful flowers. It prefers moist, well-draining soil.
- Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa): Butterfly weed is a herb that is often used to attract butterflies. It prefers a sunny location and well-draining soil.
These are just a few of the many medicinal plants that can be grown in Zone 6. For a more comprehensive list and information on how to prepare and use these plants, consider visiting your local garden center or herbalist.
28 Powerful Medicinal Plants to Plant in Your Garden
If you’re looking to create the ultimate medicinal garden, there are a variety of hardy plants to consider that not only provide medicinal benefits but are also easy to grow and maintain. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these plants are a great addition to any garden.
1. Urtica urens (Stinging Nettle): This plant is known for its ability to quickly relieve itching and pain caused by insect bites or minor burns.
2. Artemisia absinthium (Wormwood): Wormwood is a powerful herb that is commonly used to treat digestive disorders such as indigestion and bloating.
3. Achillea millefolium (Yarrow): Yarrow has been used for centuries as an herbal remedy for various ailments including digestive issues, wounds, and fever.
4. Origanum vulgare (Wild Oregano): Although commonly used in cooking, wild oregano also has powerful medicinal properties and is often used to treat respiratory infections and improve digestion.
5. Stachys byzantina (Lamb’s Ear): Lamb’s ear is an essential healing herb that can be used to soothe skin irritations and promote wound healing.
6. Cotyledon umbilicus (Navelwort): Navelwort has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, including its ability to soothe burns and relieve pain.
7. Prunella vulgaris (Self-Heal): Self-heal is a common herb used by gardeners for its ability to treat various ailments such as fever, sore throat, and gastrointestinal issues.
8. Tanacetum parthenium (Feverfew): Feverfew is a popular herb used for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to relieve migraines.
9. Mentha spp. (Mint): Mint is not only a great addition to your garden for culinary purposes, but it also has powerful medicinal benefits such as relieving indigestion and promoting relaxation.
10. Allium schoenoprasum (Chives): Chives are a hardy herb that can help boost immunity and provide important nutrients to your diet.
11. Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm): Lemon balm is a versatile herb that can be used to reduce stress, promote sleep, and relieve indigestion.
12. Levisticum officinale (Lovage): Lovage has essential oil that helps with digestion and also encourages urination.
13. Foeniculum vulgare (Fennel): Fennel not only adds flavor to your cooking but also has medicinal properties that can help relieve gas, bloating, and indigestion.
14. Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium): Pennyroyal has been used for centuries for its ability to treat digestive issues and promote relaxation.
15. Urtica dioica (Nettle): Nettle is a popular medicinal plant with a variety of uses, including relieving allergies, reducing inflammation, and supporting kidney function.
16. Prunus spp. (Cherry): The bark of cherry trees can be used to make a cough syrup that helps with respiratory issues and sore throat.
17. Symphytum officinale (Comfrey): Comfrey is a powerful healing herb that promotes wound healing and can be used topically to reduce pain and swelling.
18. Rhodiola rosea (Golden Root): Golden root is an adaptogenic herb that is often used to reduce stress and improve focus and cognitive function.
19. Ribes uva-crispa (Gooseberry): Gooseberries are high in antioxidants and have been used for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
20. Rumex acetosa (Sorrel): Sorrel is a leafy green herb that is commonly used in cooking, but it also has medicinal properties that can help with indigestion and constipation.
21. Acorus calamus (Sweet Flag): Sweet flag has been used for centuries for its calming and de-stressing effects and can be brewed into a tea to promote relaxation and sleep.
22. Achillea millefolium (Yarrow): Yarrow is a versatile herb that can be used to treat various ailments such as wounds, fever, and digestive issues. It’s a must-have for any medicinal garden.
23. Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s Wort): St. John’s wort is a popular herb used to treat depression and improve mood. It can also be used topically to heal wounds and relieve muscle pain.
24. Althaea officinalis (Marshmallow): Marshmallow root has soothing properties that can help soothe sore throats and promote healthy digestion.
25. Sambucus nigra (Elderberry): Elderberry is a powerful immune-boosting herb that can help prevent and treat colds and flu.
26. Salix alba (White Willow): White willow bark contains salicin, a compound similar to aspirin, which makes it a great natural pain reliever.
27. Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion): Dandelion is a common weed with powerful medicinal properties that can help improve digestion, support liver health, and reduce inflammation.
28. Rubus idaeus (Raspberry): Raspberry leaves are commonly used to make a tea that can help relieve menstrual cramps and reduce inflammation.
When selecting medicinal plants for your garden, it’s important to note that some plants may not be suitable for your local climate or soil conditions. Additionally, some plants may require special care and attention to thrive. It’s always best to do your research and consult with a local gardening expert before planting any new herbs or medicinal plants.
By incorporating these powerful medicinal plants into your garden, you can enjoy the many health benefits they provide while also adding beauty and fragrance to your outdoor space. Whether it’s a simple herb garden or a more extensive medicinal garden, growing your own plants can be a rewarding and therapeutic experience.
