Homestead herbs are those that are commonly grown on homesteads for their culinary, medicinal, or ornamental value.They can be grown in gardens, pots, or even window boxes. Herbs for homesteaders can be used to add flavor to food, make natural remedies, or simply enjoy their beauty. Here are the 6 best herbs for homesteaders:
1. Chamomile
Chamomile is a calming herb that is often used to promote relaxation and sleep. It is also a good digestive aid and can be used to soothe an upset stomach. Chamomile tea is a popular way to enjoy this herb. It can also be used in baked goods, salads, and other dishes.
How to grow chamomile: Chamomile prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is a relatively easy herb to grow and can be started from seed or purchased as a seedling.
Culinary uses for chamomile: Chamomile tea, baked goods, salads
Medicinal uses for chamomile: Research shows that chamomile tea can be used to soothe an upset stomach, reduce anxiety, and promote sleep. It can also be applied topically to treat wounds and burns.
2. Lavender
Lavender is a beautiful herb that is known for its calming and relaxing properties. It is also a good insect repellent and can be used to make potpourri or essential oil. Lavender can be used in cooking, but its flavor is quite strong. It is best used as a garnish or in small amounts.
How to grow lavender: Lavender prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is a drought-tolerant plant and does not require a lot of water. Lavender can be started from seed or purchased as a seedling.
Culinary uses for lavender: Edible flowers, can be used in tea blends.
Medicinal uses for lavender: Lavender oil can be used to relieve anxiety, promote sleep, and reduce pain. It can also be applied topically to treat burns and wounds.
3. Citrus Bergamot
Citrus bergamot is a citrus fruit that is a hybrid of the sour orange and the citron. Bergamot is known for its distinctive flavor and aroma. It is used in a variety of products, including Earl Grey tea, perfume, and essential oil.
How to grow citrus bergamot: Citrus bergamot can be grown in a pot or in the ground. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Bergamot is a relatively easy plant to grow, but it is important to water it regularly, especially during hot weather.
Culinary uses for citrus bergamot: Bergamot juice is generally taken as a shot, similar to apple cider vinegar. It has a strong sour, bitter taste.
Medicinal uses for citrus bergamot: Citrus bergamot supplements have grown in popularity in recent years. It has been clinically shown to reduce elevated cholesterol levels by up 20%. Click through to learn about the best bergamot supplement for cholesterol. In addition to citrus bergamot supplements, this herb can also be taken as a tea. It is famously included in Earl Gray Tea, one of the most popular blends in the world.
4. Oregano
Oregano is a powerful herb that is known for its immune-boosting properties. It is also a good antibacterial and antifungal agent. Oregano is a popular herb in Italian cuisine and is often used in pizza sauce, marinades, and soups. It is one of the most popular herbs for homesteaders.
How to grow oregano: Oregano prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is a relatively easy herb to grow and can be started from seed or purchased as a seedling.
Culinary uses for oregano: Pizza sauce, marinades, soups
Medicinal uses for oregano: Oregano is a powerful immune booster and can be used to treat respiratory infections, stomach problems, and skin infections. It can also be used to make a natural antibiotic.
5. Peppermint
Peppermint is a refreshing herb that is known for its digestive and headache-relieving properties. It is also a good cold remedy. Peppermint is a popular herb in candy and gum, but it can also be used in tea, salads, and other dishes.
How to grow peppermint: Peppermint prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is a relatively easy herb to grow and can be started from seed or purchased as a seedling. However, peppermint can be invasive, so it is important to plant it in a pot or in an area where it cannot spread. It’s a great herb to grow in your tea garden.
Culinary uses for peppermint: Tea, candy, salads
Medicinal uses for peppermint: Peppermint tea can be used to relieve nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. It can also be used to relieve headaches and cold symptoms.
6. Rosemary
Rosemary is a versatile herb that is known for its memory-boosting and appetite-stimulating properties. It is also a good insect repellent. Rosemary is a popular herb in Mediterranean cuisine and is often used in roasted meats, vegetables, and poultry.
How to grow rosemary: Rosemary prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is a drought-tolerant plant and does not require a lot of water. Rosemary can be started from seed or purchased as a seedling.
Culinary uses for rosemary: Roasted meats, vegetables, poultry
Medicinal uses for rosemary: Rosemary has been shown to improve memory and cognitive function. It can also be used to stimulate appetite and relieve digestive problems.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the many great herbs for homesteaders that can be grown. When choosing herbs to grow, it is important to consider your climate, the amount of space you have, and your personal preferences.
With a little planning, you can easily grow a beautiful and productive herb garden that will support the health of both you and your family.