Whether you want to grow herbs in your kitchen garden as a hobby or want to do so for a healthier eating, there are plenty of herbs that shall not only serve as seasonings to your meals but also help you ward off infections. Fresh herbs make recipes tastier and have significant medicinal value too. Good to use, they need 4-6 hours of daily sunlight and a generous supply to water to grow well.
Here is a list of some amazing herbs that can be good options for you to start your own kitchen garden with:
1 . Basil
Basil is one of the favorite ingredients in both Indian and Italian cuisines. It has an anise-like flavor and an intense clove-like aroma, and part from being therapeutic also serves as a deodorizer and insect repellent. Dried or fresh basil is used for cooking or can also be used as a herbal fragrance for your home. Basil is a rich storehouse of important minerals and vitamins such as Vitamins A, K and C, magnesium, iron, potassium, and calcium.
2 . Coriander
Coriander (also known as Cilantro) is a rich source of antioxidants and Vitamin C along with other vitamins and minerals. It helps in digestion and relieves inflammation that causes gastric problems. Enriched with several acids such as linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid and stearic acid, coriander also helps to reduce cholesterol levels.
3 . Oregano
Most commonly used as a seasoning, oils distilled from Oregano leaves are also used to treat respiratory infections, digestive issues, and fungal infections, skin conditions including dandruff, muscle aches, and pains. Both, oregano leaves and flowers are edible and have similar flavors. It is also used as a natural insect repellent.
4 . Lemon Balm
A member of the mint family, lemon balm is easy to grow and offers several health benefits. Lemon balm naturally eases nerve and muscle tension. The fresh herb can be used to reduce inflammation and also helps to ward off infections. Anti-viral in nature, it can be applied to reduce the healing time of cold sores. When ingested, it also helps to relieve gas, cramping and stomach upset.
5 . Parsley
Parsley has natural anti-bacterial properties and can boost your immune system and can also neutralize bad breath. Parsley is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory which is helpful for digestion and detoxification. Parsley is great for salad dressings and is also used often in veggie dishes.
6 . Sage
Sage, commonly known as Saaddhoo, is an aromatic herb that is used as a seasoning for different dishes. An easy-to-grow herb, it also helps to heal the cuts and treats inflammation. It has been found to benefit people with memory issues as well.
7 . Chives
Did you know growing chives in your garden could help to drive away harmful insect pests and mosquitoes? Chives are one of the most finely flavored forms of onions and have insect repellant properties. It helps to keep you away from unwanted infections. It also offers anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, when ingested in the form of dried or fresh form. It can also serve as a seasoning for fish, soups, potatoes and vegetable dishes.