We’ve talked a lot this month about the types of products that you may or may not want to have in your medicine cabinet (or use on your body). What we haven’t done, however, is give you great options for store bought solutions. Of course, we’ve covered how to make some homemade beauty products and homemade cleaners, but what about all of the items in your medicine cabinet with actual medicinal value?
Not to worry! We did our research on that, too! Wouldn’t it be nice to grow a tiny garden in your bathroom like Bathroom Farmer does? And if you did, in addition to the spa-like soothing qualities, wouldn’t it be nice if some of those plants could be a first line of defense instead of heading to bottled products in your medicine cabinet? Well, both of those things can be true! We’re going to avoid telling you how to grow (though Bathroom Farmer is a great resource for that) and instead list the eight common herbs and plants that you can grow yourself to replace items in your medicine cabinet.
Basil: Basil can be used to calm flatulence, but it’s also a great topical treatment for cuts and scrapes. It’s also said to have medicinal properties to help if you have a lack of appetite. A single basil plant will mean that you can harvest the leaves for their medicinal value whenever you need to.
Chamomile: In addition to having your own steeping source for tea, you can use the flower heads to create a salve for inflammations. The leaves and petals, when steeped, can calm anxiety and relieve indigestion.
Feverfew: Chewing the leaves from this daisy-like flower can help to relieve headaches. It’s even been reported that it can mitigate migraines.
Lemon Balm: Lemon balm is similar to mint and has many of the same medicinal properties. It can be used to treat anxiety, insomnia, wounds, insect bites and upset stomachs.
Parsley: You won’t just have a handy garnish for dinners if you grow parsley in your bathroom. Parsley is great for flatulence or bad breath. Yes, you can use it to replace your mouthwash if you like!
Sage: Not only will Sage smell amazing in your bathroom, it can also be used to soothe and relieve mouth and throat inflammations and soreness.
St. John’s Wort: Many individuals report that St. John’s Wort can help to relieve mild symptoms of depression.
Thyme: Another delightful smell to fill your bathroom with. Thyme also has medicinal properties for soothing coughs, congestion and indigestion.
Of course, it should go without saying, but you should always consult a physician for any medical concerns rather than attempting to self-medicate either with herbals or with over-the-counter medications. Don’t take chances with your health. Always seek the advice of a professional (not a website!).
It also doesn’t have to be an either/or situation. You can keep your medicine cabinet full of traditional over-the-counter drugs, store-bought herbal options and home-grown fresh plants and use them in any ratio to each other that you want. Like all things on the consumer and eco-friendly scale, you need to find your own comfort point and do what feels like the best option for you.
Did we miss a plant that people should have around for medicinal purposes? Share it with us. Comment below or tell us about it on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or Instagram.
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Photo Credit: Dominic Alves via Flickr
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