How to plant a healing garden

Reap the benefits by bringing cuttings indoors to promote relaxation or even bring them to work to boost concentration levels.

There are many ways you can utilise your home-grown healing plants. You can dry the herbs, adding them to teas, bath water, infused oils or balms.

Below are our favourite aromatic plants that will allow you to explore the healing power of herbs, scents and oils.

Lavender

The scent of lavender has been shown to promote relaxation and sleep. While many herbalists use lavender to treat feelings of anxiety and headaches, you can also use lavender to flavour sugar, drinks and sweet treats.

Planting directions – All varieties of lavender need to be in direct sunlight so plant in the spring. The soil needs to be well-drained and fertilised. Allow the soil to dry out for seven to 10 days between each time you water. Prune and harvest just as the flowers start to show colour.

Mint

There are many varieties of mint, including spearmint, peppermint and sweet mint. The aroma has been found to improve memory, boost levels of concentration and enhance performance during physical activity.

While mint is known as an ingredient in many drinks, sweets and food items: herbalists use mint to treat and ease headaches and stomach aches.

Planting directions – Mint grows quickly and can often become invasive. To control the growth, contain the mint in a plant pot. Mint will flourish in damp soil and leaves can be harvested at any time.

Rosemary

Studies have found the rosemary aroma to boost alertness and cognitive performance. Often used to flavour meat and vegetable dishes, herbalists use rosemary to ease headaches.

Planting directions – Rosemary is best planted in direct sunlight and does not need to be watered regularly. If growing during the winter months, bring the plant indoors.