The Best Herbs to Grow at Home

If you are looking to start a garden, growing herbs at home is a great place to start. Many herbs can be planted indoors and a kitchen herb garden is one of the simplest and most useful gardens that you could grow. Herbs also are full of health benefits and many have anti-inflammatory properties, are cancer-fighting, aid in weight loss and have powerful antioxidants! 

The Best 5 Herbs to Grow at Home

Sage

While popular for its strong flavor and aroma, sage also has many health benefits and is a simple herb to grow. Sage is high in nutrients, especially Vitamin K which plays a role in bone health and wound healing. It also is full of antioxidants and in studies has been shown to fight certain cancers. In the studies, sage was able to slow down the reproduction of cancer cells and serve as a catalyst for cancer cell death.

Things To Know When Growing Sage:

• Although it is simple to grow, planters often prefer to grow sage from cuttings because sage takes nearly 2 years to reach its mature size.
• Always allow sage plants to receive full sunlight.
• Be sure that your sage plant has soil that drains well. Sage does not need a lot of water, and in its first few weeks only needs to be watered once or twice a week.
• Sage grows well with tomatoes, carrots, and rosemary. Avoid planting sage near onions or cucumbers!

Parsley

Parsley is considered “one of the most powerful disease-fighting plants”, and for good reason! Parsley has high levels of Vitamin K, A, and C, and is also rich in antioxidants which may help lower your risk of developing some diseases.

Things to Know When Growing Parsley:

• If growing from a seed, parsley needs a consistent amount of water. Be sure that your soil remains moisturized.
• Parsley, much like sage, can take an extended amount of time to grow. It usually takes up to three weeks for a parsley seed to begin sprouting. 
• Parsley grows well with tomatoes and asparagus.

Oregano

Oregano has been used as a medicinal herb for centuries by the people of the Mediterranean region. Its list of possible ailments that it can cure is lengthy and includes:

• Asthma
• Cramping
• Colds
• Inflammation
• Some cancers

Oregano is also believed by some researchers to relieve stress due to the antioxidants that it possesses.

Things to Know When Growing Oregano:

• Oregano is a great choice for a first-time gardener!
• Oregano is low-maintenance and grows well in a garden and indoors in a plot.
• Oregano grows well with all vegetables.

Mint

Mint is well-known for its amazing oral care benefits, but this herb has even more benefits. Mint can smooth digestion, treat asthma and aid in weight loss! Mint also contains menthol which is a decongestant that can help break up mucus and phlegm. This can soothe cold symptoms and help your body recover from the common cold more quickly. Menthol also helps muscles relax and eases pain, allowing for it to serve as a cure for headaches. 

Things to Know About Growing Mint:

• Mint grows fast! So fast that it is considered an invasive plant as it can overpower other plants in your garden. Consider growing your mint in a pot in order to control its growth.
• Mint performs best in full sun but also thrives in partial shade.

Basil

Basil is said to be one of the oldest herbs known to mankind and is herbal medicine. It is known for treating the common cold and inflammation. Like many herbs, basil also has strong anti-inflammatory properties and high levels of antioxidants. Basil also is believed to regulate hormones that control mood and energy. According to a 2014 review, basil can help alleviate mental stress such as anxiety and depression. 

Things to Know When Growing Basil:

• Basil grows best in well-drained moist soil.
• Basil is quick to germinate and sprouts can begin to grow within eight days.
• Basil grows well with tomatoes, parsley, oregano, and lettuce.

Chives

Chives contain many vitamins and minerals, including folate. Folate is a B-vitamin that can assist your body in fighting against many conditions including cancer, depression and Alzheimer’s. 

Things to Know When Growing Chives:

• Chives require full sunlight in order to germinate within their normal time frame of two to three weeks. Chives should reach their fully mature state within three months.
• Chives are part of the onion family, so they grow well with tomatoes, carrots, broccoli, cabbage, eggplant, and many more vegetables. 

Tip: While all of these herbs can be grown from a seedling, it is easiest to grow these herbs from a cutting, especially for new gardeners. Most herbs take several months to reach their full maturity, which could be overwhelming for someone without experience gardening.

Why Should I Grow An Herb Garden at Home?

Planting an herb garden at home comes with a multitude of benefits. 

• Eat Fresh: You can incorporate fresh ingredients into your dishes, instead of using dried herbs which often lose their flavor.
• Add Variety: By planting several types of herbs you can add variety to the meals you cook and try new recipes with your fresh herbs.
• Save Money: Planting these herbs whether in your garden or inside, you can save money as many recipes call for these herbs as ingredients. You will also prevent food waste because often times when you buy fresh herbs from the grocery store you are unable to use them all and they often go bad.
• Spruce Up Your Home: Along with adding variety to your meals, saving you money, and providing fresh ingredients, planting herb plants within your home or garden will also add beauty!