This article explains medical herbs and their uses when to harvest them for medicinal use, knowing which herbs to plant, etc.
As with any medicinal herb or remedy, we strongly recommend that you only use them under the supervision of a doctor or physician.
We cannot provide medical advice, so there is no dosage information in this post. Instead, we are simply sharing the top herbs we use and what they are used for.
When To Harvest For Medicinal Use
The way you harvest your herbs and plants depends on what part of the plant you are using for each remedy.
For some plants, the leaves should be harvested before the plant flowers to ensure you harvest the leaves at the peak of the plant’s medicinal potency.
For other plants, the flower should be harvested just as the flower begins to open. For others, the plant will not be harvested until it dies back and the root is harvested.
Knowing Which Herbs to Plant
Choosing the right herbs to plant is a personal decision. I suggest going through the list and reading about common uses, then deciding which herbs will help you and your family with most of the problems you’re facing.
It’s important to plant the herbs you’re going to use. If you’re not going to use them, they’ll certainly brighten your yard but always plant what you plan to use.
Medical Herbs And Their Uses
Let’s take a look at some of the medical herbs and their uses:
1. Horseradish
Horseradish is a bitter root vegetable with a sharp, spicy taste. It is used in many different cuisines to add zesty flavor to sauces, dips, and condiments.
It is rich in vitamin C and vitamin B6. Some health benefits of horseradish include aiding digestion and antibacterial properties found in traditional medicine.
As horseradish grows in clusters, it will expand over time, so choose a cool place in your garden where it won’t take up too much space.
Horseradish Medicinal Uses:
- Bronchial infection
- Sinus infection
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)
2. Dill
Dill is a grassy herb that has feathery leaves. It has a sweet, grassy taste with anise and citrus notes. It is often used in pickles, salads, and in seafood dishes.
Dill has both culinary appeal and health benefits. Traditionally used in traditional medicine, it aids digestion and has antimicrobial properties.
The reason we grow dill for medicinal purposes is that the seeds are also great for eliminating gas and/or bloating. All you have to do is take a couple of seeds and eat them.
Dill Medicinal Uses:
- Upset stomach
- Menstrual pain
- Helps depression
3. Garlic
Garlic and onions should grow in every herb garden, even if you hate the taste of garlic in your food.
Garlic has amazing medicinal properties. According to research published by SB Bhatwalkar, 2021, garlic is an anti-microbial that helps fight all types of diseases.
We grow garlic for medicinal purposes as well as for culinary purposes.
Many people enjoy fermenting garlic in honey and eating a garlic clove or two at the first sign of illness to quickly kill the illness.
Garlic Medicinal Uses:
- Anti-biotic
- Anti-fungal
- Anti-viral
- Tooth abscess
- Infections in the skin
- Colds
4. Peppermint
A refreshing herb with a cool menthol flavor profile, peppermint is commonly found in teas, sweet treats, and aromatherapy.
It gives you a refreshing feeling. Known for supporting the digestive system, peppermint has potential health benefits such as relieving headaches and improving respiratory health.
It offers a wide range of culinary and health benefits.
Peppermint Medicinal Uses:
- Stomach issues
- Sinus issues & congestion
- Cooling (hot summer day, cooling topically)
- Headaches
- Morning sickness
5. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is a fragrant herb from the mint family that smells citrusy. Lemon balm has a sweet, lemony flavor that is perfect for teas and cooking.
Lemon balm is known for its calming properties and is believed to reduce stress. It is also known in traditional medicine for helping with sleep, anxiety, and relaxation.
Lemon Balm Medicinal Uses:
- Colds/flu
- Reduces fevers
- Cough
- Calms nerves/stress
- Upset Stomach
- Promotes sleep
6. Elecampane
Elecampane is a yellow-flowered herb with many health benefits. Traditionally used in herbal medicine, Elecampane promotes respiratory health and digestive health.
The roots of Elecampane are known for their sweet, bitter flavor and can be found in teas as well as medicines for coughs bronchitis, and digestive problems.
Elecampane Medicinal Uses:
- Colds or flu
- Chest/lung congestion
7. Chamomile
Chamomile is a mild, floral herb with a daisy-like scent. It is known for its calming effects and is often steeped in tea to aid in relaxation and sleep.
According to research published by JK Srivastava · 2010, Chamomile is used in traditional medicine for stress relief, digestive relief, and overall well-being, Chamomile remains a popular herbal remedy around the world.
Chamomile Medicinal Uses:
- Gas
- Upset stomach
- Promotes sleep
- Promotes calm
- Fever reducer
- Eye issues
8. Calendula
Calendula is an herb with golden or orange flowers that are known for their healing properties.
According to research published by LML Parente · 2012, the petals of calendula offer medicinal benefits, such as relieving skin irritation and helping wound healing.
Calendula is used as a top-of-the-line ingredient in creams and ointments, as well as in teas, and is highly valued for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties in herbal medicine and skincare products.
Calendula Medicinal Uses:
- Rash
- Wounds
- Anti-fungal (diaper rash)
- Skin issues
- Lymph stimulant
9. Bee Balm
Bee Balm attracts bees and other pollinators with its bright red, pink, or purple flowers. It is also called Monarda and is used in herbal medicine as an antimicrobial agent.
Its fragrant leaves and flowers are used in tea and remedies and are believed to have health benefits.
Bee Balm Medicinal Uses:
- Anti-bacterial
- Anti-viral
- Soothes coughs
- Anti-microbial
- Anti-fungal
- Soothes skin
- Relieves stomach cramps
10. Echinacea
Echinacea is a flowering plant that has purple petals. It is considered to have immune-supporting properties.
Echinacea is used as a herbal remedy in tea and supplements. It is believed to reduce the intensity of cold symptoms and boost immune function.
Echinacea is one of the most popular natural remedies for various respiratory diseases.
Echinacea Medicinal Uses:
- Anti-infection
- Sore throat
- Immune-stimulant
11. Sage
Sage is an earthy-tasting herb with silvery green leaves. It is highly valued in culinary arts and is often used with meats and in savory recipes.
Sage has many medicinal uses in traditional medicine. Sage has many health benefits, including antimicrobial properties, digestive health, and cognitive function.
Sage Medicinal Uses:
12. Yarrow
The yarrow plant is known for its medicinal properties. The leaves and flowers of yarrow, which are composed of clusters of small white or pinkish flowers, are used in herbal remedies.
According to research published by V Tadić · 2017, Yarrow helps to heal wounds and reduces inflammation.
Traditionally, yarrow has been used as an aphrodisiac and has antibacterial properties. It is also used to treat digestive problems and promote overall health.
Yarrow Medicinal Uses
- Flu
- Stops bleeding
- Reduce fever
13. Tusli
Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil, is one of the most sacred herbs in Ayurveda. The leaves of Tulsi are fragrant and have a sweet, pungent aroma.
Tulsi is considered to have adaptogenic properties, which can reduce stress and promote immune health.
It is used in teas and as a supplement, and is appreciated for its potential medicinal properties in traditional Ayurveda practices.
Tusli Medicinal Uses
- Anti-bacterial
- Regulates stress response
- Promotes energy
- Helps with focus and is very grounding
14. Oregano
Oregano is a strong, aromatic herb with a strong flavor. Oregano is a common ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine. The leaves of oregano give a slightly bitter, savory flavor to pizzas, pasta, and salads.
According to a study published by N Leyva-López · 2017, Oregano has anti-oxidant and anti-microbial properties.
It is well-known in herbal medicine for its potential health benefits such as digestive support and immune support.
Oregano Medicinal Uses
- Cold/flu
- Anti-viral
- Anti-fungal
- High in antioxidants
15. Hollyhock
Hollyhocks, with their tall stems and colorful flowers, add a touch of beauty to any garden.
The flowers of hollyhocks are used in traditional medicine, as they have demulcent properties that can soothe sore throats and reduce skin irritation.
Hollyhocks are highly valued for their ornamental value. They add a touch of charm to any landscape with their striking presence.
Hollyhock Medicinal Uses
- Upset stomach
- Mucilaginous
- Rash/skin issues
These are just a few examples of the many medicinal plants. Many of these are safe and effective.
However, it is important to do your research on these herbal medicines and consult your doctor before using any.
With proper knowledge and advice, medicinal plants are a great way to keep your health and well-being in check.
FAQs Related To Medical Herbs And Their Uses
What is herbal medicine and its uses?
It refers to the medicinal properties of plants used to treat diseases and improve overall health and well-being.
What is the most powerful herbal medicine?
- Gingko
- Echinacea
- Grapeseed extract
- Turmeric
- Primrose oil
- Flax seed
- Tea tree oil
- Lavender
How many types of medicinal herbs are there?
According to a study, about 75-100 types
What leaf can cure infection?
Peppermint
What is the mother of all herbs?
Coleus amboinicus is also known as All Purpose Herb
What is one herb that every woman should take?
Red Raspberry leaf. Why should every woman take Red Raspberry leaf? Because it eases menstrual pain
What herbs can you eat raw?
You can eat parsley, basil, and dill raw
Is ginger a medicinal plant?
Yes. For thousands of years, ginger has been used to treat a variety of illnesses, including colds, sickness, arthritis, migraine, and high blood pressure.
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