Any cook (or foodie!) worth their salt knows all about the culinary uses for sage, rosemary and thyme. But herbs have surprising uses beyond your favorite dish. Herbaceous plants, which are perfect for rooftop or container gardens, offer treatment for ailments of all kinds, act as natural cosmetic aids, make great cleaning products and even help keep pests away.
Under eye brightener: Dark circles or puffiness under the eyes is something many folks deal with. Parsley’s anti-inflammatory, brightening and tightening abilities just might help, according to herbalists. Crush a bunch of parsley to a fine paste with a mortar and pestle. Add two teaspoons of very hot water, combine and place in the fridge to cool. Once chilled, absorb the mixture into two cotton balls. Place cotton on eyes while relaxing for 10-15 minutes.
Joint and muscle pain reliever: Sore from yesterday’s workout or starting to feel the aches and pains that come with age? No problem. Make oregano oil by steeping the fresh herb in organic olive oil. Once cooled, rub small amounts into sore muscles or joints to ease soreness.
Dandruff fighter: Dandruff may not be a popular subject, but it is a common condition. To fend off its irritating effects naturally, boil rosemary leaves in water. Once completely cooled, rinse wet hair with the rosemary solution. Herbalists claim the solution reduces dandruff while also strengthening hair.
Skin soother: Plantain, a broad-leaf North American-based herb often mistaken for a weed, has a multitude of uses. Steep with water, cool and spray to provide relief of sunburned skin. Apply torn, fresh leaves directly to stings or bites or use to ease the itch of poison ivy or oak.
Digestion aid: Historically, Italians have used basil to reduce stomach upset and promote digestion. Feeling too full from tonight’s lasagna? No problem. Mix a half teaspoon of dried basil in a glass of water and drink to ease discomfort.
Natural air freshener: If you’re looking for an eco-friendly way to freshen the air in your home, use herbs. Place fresh rosemary or lemon balm in small vases to brighten your space with their clean scents. Or dry your favorite herbs to create a potpourri to use in containers or homemade sachets to tuck into small spaces.
Stress-reducer: Next time you take a few moments to unwind in a warm bath after a stressful day, add a few handfuls—about two cups worth—of fresh basil leaves to the water. Herbalists say the pleasing aroma promotes relaxation and stress reduction.
Hard surface cleaner: A chemical called thymol gives thyme its antiseptic and disinfectant properties. Boil the herb with water, cool and place the solution in a reusable spray bottle. Use the fresh-scented herbal cleaning spray to naturally refresh and disinfect hard surfaces in the bathroom and kitchen.
Mosquito deterrent: No matter where you live, mosquitos are a common summertime pest. Fight them naturally by strategically placing rosemary plants around your outdoor space. Mosquitos will steer clear and you’ll enjoy outdoor comfort with a glorious, herbal aroma.
Talk to us: How are you using herbs beyond their typical culinary uses? We’d love to hear from you!
image courtesy of Susy Morris/BY CC 2.0