Hello Friends,

I hope you are enjoying your summer garden. I know that I am. So many things are blooming and harvesting has begun. I thought I would share some photos of my herb garden with you. Enjoy and plan what you want to plant next year.

Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosea) – is well-known for hormone balance and has been traditionally used for the symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes. It isn’t known exactly how black cohosh works to balance the body. It seems to support estrogen levels without actually adding estrogen. Black cohosh, a perennial, is native to America and grows deep in the shade of the woods. The root is the part used for medicine. The leaves are fern-like growing about 18 inches high. The flower shoots upwards at 3-4 feet with lovely bottlebrush white flowers. It usually blooms near the 4th of July and reminds me of fireworks.

 

 

Lady’s Mantle (Alchemilla vulgaris) – an herb known for toning the tissues of the female reproductive system. It is often combined with red raspberry and used as a tasty tea. The leaf and flower are used for medicine. Lady’s mantle is a perennial and grows low to the ground, with delicate yellow flowers about 1 foot high. The leaf has a distinctive shape and is lovely in early morning as it catches the dew. Lady’s Mantle will tolerate shade, but loves sunshine and can be planted as part of a rock garden.

 

Yarrow (Achillea filipendula) – traditionally a women’s herb, it is well-known for its ability to stop bleeding. It was often taken into battle for its clotting and healing ability. It is antiseptic, antimicrobial, reduces inflammation, and improves circulation. Yarrow leaves make a useful poultice for first aid and it is found growing wild in fields and woods. This variety has beautiful yellow flowers used often for dried arrangements. Yarrow is a perennial, loves sunshine, with the flowers reaching 1-3 feet in height.

Happy gardening!

 

Lisa Purdy ND, MH

Healthy Life Solutions

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