Flowers are in large umbels that appear the second year after germinating. Dried seed heads are used in arrangements. Leaves make a nice tea. The stem has a licorice-like taste and is candied or can be used to decorate cakes etc. Leaves can be used in salads and roots and stems may be eaten like asparagus. Scent has been used in aroma therapy. Used medicinally as a tonic against infection, to improve energy and to stimulate circulation. It is used for bronchial problems. Antifungal and antibacterial. In the middle ages it was used to ward off evil spirits and witches, among other things equally ineffective. The American Indians used it for many things

Also known as Agastache. Spikes of purple flowers with toothed leaves. Attracts bees when it blooms in summer time. Can be used fresh or dried as a delicious tea. Used medicinally by Native Americans, at one time, for respiratory problems.

TO BE USED EXTERNALLY ONLY
Can be toxic if used internally. May cause dermatitis in some people.

Yellow-orange flowers in midsummer. Used by the American Indians to make healing ointments and tinctures. Two substances in this herb, helenalin and dihydrohelenalin, produce anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. It has been known to relieve the pain and the inflammation of sprains and bruises.

Hardy shrub, usually used as an ornamental plant that is easily trained into various forms. The berries can be used in cooking similar to cranberries. The plant also contains berberine which is astringent, anesthetic and antibacterial. It is good for sore throats.

Highly attractive to bees and butterflies. Used by the Otsego Indians, sometimes spelled Oswego, for pleasure and as medicine. Settlers learned of this tea and during the period of the Boston Tea Party was drunk in place of black tea. It hasn't had much scientific study to confirm the claims that it can help with coughs, sore throats, nausea, flatulence and menstrual cramps. It has a pleasant taste, though, and is very safe so it doesn't hurt to try it for these complaints. The taste reminds you of citrus and the flowers can be used in salads or as garnishes. The leaves may be used in cooking. Good with many meats and fruits. This plant is also highly desired for its appearance. It is very showy and colorful.

Drives cats nuts! Although most people think of Catnip as an herb for cats, it has been used by people for over 2,000 years. Although it has been used for everything from colds to cancer, it has been found that it contains a volatile oil that is considered to be a sedative. Therefore, tea from this plant is used as digestive and sleeping aids. It has been eaten in salads and even candied and served as an after dinner digestive aid.

One of the most well-known herbs, Chamomile has been around for centuries. Many people drink it just for its pleasant taste but it has been used for many things. It contains a volatile oil that supposedly helps as 1. An anti-inflammatory used for skin afflictions and mucous membranes, 2. An antispasmodic for indigestion and menstrual cramps and 2. An anti-infective for minor illnesses. With a wonderful aple fragrance and a hardy resistance to being walked on, this plant makes a wonderful groundcover in areas where you have high traffic and moist conditions. When walkd on, the fragrance of apples is released into the air.

Chives have been used for several thousand years. When the colonists came to America they brought them along. They hung bunches of them in their homes, believing that they drove away diseases and evil influences. Their use is mostly culinary but Chives do have a sulfur oil that is found in all members of the onion family. This oil is what gives them their flavor as well as any medicinal value. Sulfur oil is antiseptic and can help lower blood pressure but only in large amounts. Chives, however, do not have as much of this oil as other members of the family. Also grown for its ornamental value. The blossoms can be tossed into salads as well as being dried and used in arrangements.

SUSPECTED CARCINOGEN - DO NOT TAKE INTERNALLY

Dioscorides, a Greek physician, used Comfrey to heal wounds and mend broken bones. Its name is derived from the Latin word conferta which means "grow together." Poultices were made for external use and teas drunk for internal problems such as diahrrea and bleeding. The plant was cultivated for use in cooking and feeding livestock. It was used for food during the potato famine in Ireland in the 1840's. In 1978, studies showed that rats, fed a diet of dried leaves and roots, developed tumors after 6 months so its internal use was discouraged. It is still used externally as a healing herb. It contains allantoin which affects multiplication of cells and tissue growth. It also seems that it destroys harmful bacteria as well. It has been proven very effective when applied to infections.

Also called Purple Coneflower. American Indians in the plains states used Echinacea for many things including snakebite and the bites of poisonous insects. Others used it as a blood purifier to cure everything from bites to syphilis and hemorrhoids. It is not the cure-all they accredited it to be. Today, herbalists still consider it to be one of the best blood purifiers and an effective antibiotic. There are some that claim it can cure the common cold but this is not true. It can, however, help prevent getting colds by cleansing the blood and helping your own system to fight germs. This plant is also grown for its ornamental value. Large, cone-shaped flowers in midsummer.

Feverfew's name comes from the Latin febrifugia which means "driver out of fevers." It was used by the Romans for this purpose but today it is used more as an anti-inflammatory and migraine headache cure. In 1985 a study demonstrated that Feverfew helps alleviate migraine pain. Substances in the plant appear to make smooth mascle cells less responsive to chemicals that trigger muscle spasms. It won't help everyone who suffers from migraines but it can help some of them. In the chrysanthemum family, it is also grown ornamentally. It has small, daisy-like flowers from summer till fall.

Garlic was once used widely in charms because it was believed to have magical powers. It has been used to cure almost every ailment known to man - with very few results in most cases. It does have some medicinal value, however. It is a good germ killer. The substance Allicin, which also gives it its strong odor, can destroy or inhibit bacterias, fungi and yeast. It has been used for worms and parasites in both animals and humans. It has been used for many years to help reduce blood pressure and lower cholesterol. It is being studied for other possibilities. It is eaten in almost every country in the world.

CAUTION : Although the fruits are eaten in China they can cause dermatitis and the seeds may be toxic.

Called Bai-guo-ye in China. A beautiful tree with unusual fan shaped leaves. Very resistant to pests and pollution. The flavonoids in Gingko seem to improve circulation. Used in the elderly to improve short-term memory, and to fight the effects of senility and aging. This is the oldest living tree species on earth.

Most people only know Horehound as candy or cough drops. Horehound is in the mint family and has been used for many years to help with coughs, sore throats and lung congestion. It has a high concentration of mucilage which is coating and soothing. It can cause irregular heartbeat if taken in large amounts so care must be taken. These claims are reliable but there have been many other claims that are unsubstantiated and downright funny in some cases. For instance, it has been used to remove spells. It is one of the bitter herbs of the Bible. Somewhat ornamental it is also grown to attract bees.

In the past, Hyssop was used as a potherb. Today, it would probably be a taste that would take getting used to. It was also a "strewing herb." These were herbs that were strewn throughout sick rooms and other rooms that had a lot of unpleasant odors, to freshen or "clean" the air. It was also used to cleanse and heal wounds and bruises. A mild expectorant tea can be made from the flowers. It has a minty taste and is used in salads and other edibles. Butterflies, hummingbirds and bees are attracted to its flowers.

Makes a good border for the perennial garden. Tiny yellow flowers in early summer are often used in dried flower arrangements. Medicinally, Lady's Mantle has been used to stop bleeding and for menstrual pain and irregularities.

Lavenders' fragrance has been used for hundreds of years in soaps, perfumes, sachets and to freshen sick rooms. But that isn't all it was used for. It was used for nervous palpitations, hoarseness, palsy, toothaches and many other things. Today it is used chiefly for its fragrance but it also appears to have some qualities that make it useful as an antiseptic, a gas reliever and also as a bug repellent. It is reported to be good for oily skin. Many people grow lavender as an ornamental plant. It makes a beautiful border plant. It is also used in wreaths, dried flower arrangements and other decorations.

Although Lemon Balm - or just "Balm" - has been accredited with the ability to do many things, it does appear to have more than just a good taste. In a study, it was shown to have a sedative effect on lab rats so the claims that is is soothing may be true. Its oils also seem to inhibit bacteria and viruses so its use for washing wounds probably has some basis in fact, too, although it probably did NOT heal the bites from mad dogs it was once used for. Other uses have included fever reduction, soothing menstrual cramps, insect bites and to quiet vomiting. The leaves can also be rubbed on the skin to repel insects. This herb has a very good taste and fragrance. It attracts bees and butterflies.

The whole plant tastes like celery and is easier to grow. You use it like you would celery, raw or cooked, leaves, stem or seeds. The root has been used medicinally for many things including sore throat, obesity, boils, eye and skin problems, kidney stones and to erase freckles. Today, herbalists say that the plant, particularly the root, IS a diuretic and may relieve gas. An impressive plant in the home garden.

Yes, this is where the popular campfire goody gets its name, although the plant is no longer used to make it. Gelatin is used today but the root of this plant was first used by the French. It has a mucilaginous quality that not only made a good candy but also coats and protects the alimentary canal, urinary and respiratory organs from inflammation and irritation. The young tops and leaves can be used raw in salads. The roots can be boiled then are usually sauteed with onions.

Large, impressive plant. Tall spires of tiny pink flowers when in bloom in summer. Female tonic plant for all stages of life, from puberty to menopause. Claims are that it is an emotional balancer, stress reliever, menstruation regulator and treats functional infertility.

Not a medcinal plant but included here because of their mostly unknown use as food. The fresh flowers or the young leaves can be tossed into salads and have a peppery taste that is very good. They are also well known for use as companion plants, supposedly repelling whiteflies and squash bugs. May be trellised, grown in baskets or other containers.

The first thing most people think of when they hear the word "Oregano" is Italian food. Oregano is used in many recipes all over the world. But its usefulness doesn't stop there. Todays herbalists recommend it for indigestion, coughs, headaches and to promote menstruation. Warm poultices are used to soothe painfull sweelings. There is no clinical support for these uses but it is fairly safe to test.

Parsley isn't usually thought of as edible. You usually see it as a garnish but that sprig of parsley can be eaten after the meal to freshen your breath and to hel pwith digestion. Parsley is also very higher in vitamin C per volume than an orange. It also has vitamins A, several B vitamins, calcium and iron. The root is diuretic and in large doses may be irritating to the bladder.

This is not just an herb for the kitchen although it is highly prized in many recipes. It is used much the same way as sage. It has a clean piney fragrance and is used in potpourris, perfumes and bath oils. As a bath additive it is invigorating and stimulating. The oil should be used with caution as it is strong in large quantities and may irritate the stomach, intestines and kidneys when taken internally. Used in cooking, it is reasonably safe. Rosemary is antibacterial and can relieve gas in some people.

UNSAFE

Althought this herb is no longer considered safe to use as an herb, it has an interesting history and is an unusual plant that is worth having in the herb garden just for its appearance. It has been used to treat almost everything from bug bites to epilepsy. It has been attributed with the ability to ward off witches and their spells. It is the herb of repentance and was called the "Herb of Grace," for the grace given by God following the repentance of one's sins. Its odd shaped leaves are the model for the "clubs" in decks of playing cards. The bluegreen coloring of the plant makes it stand out in gardens.

Although most people can't imagine their Thanksgiving turkey without sage in the stuffing, the American Indians thought of Sage more as a medicine than anything else. They used it for many things - mixing it with bear grease for a salve they used for curing skin sores, as an infusion for baths and rubdowns and even as a disposable toothbrush. Today, it has been found to have astringent and antiseptic qualities. This would make it good for sore throats, mouth irritations and possibly cuts and sores. Young, fresh leaves can be eaten in salads. When used dried, it is stronger than when used fresh. Many people like to grow it for its silvery gray leaves.

CAUTION : Can cause photosensitivity in some people

For centuries this plant was thought to be able to drive out devils. It was also used in the middle ages for nervous disorders such as bed-wetting, nervous coughs and gastric problems. It fell into disuse in the 19th century but has been revived lately, principally for nervous complaints. It is said that this herb is an antidepressant as well as having antibacterial and astringent properties.

NOT FOR INTERNAL USE

Some herbalists have recommended Soapwort, or Saponaria, as a laxative and for coughs. However, Saponin, the active component in the plant, is such a strong purgative that it is best left alone. Besides, it tastes like soap! Applied externally it is used for acne and eczema. Its most interesting use is as soap. A soap can be derived from the plant that is gentle enough to clean fine fabrics, even kid gloves. It is gentle to the hands as well.

EXTERNAL USE ONLY

Tansy, with its strong scent, was one of the "strewing herbs," strewn on floors to help keep down odors and to repel insects. It was also used in coffins for the same reasons. It was used at one time to treat freckles, sunburn and pimples and even crushed and held against a woman's navel to prevent miscarriages. These uses probably didn't work. Today, it is still used to repel insects by hanging it in bunches, planting outside a doorway or by companion planting. One of its best features is the fernlike leaves and the tiny yellow flowers which, when dried, are used in arrangements.

Thyme has a long and interesting history. It was once burned to fumigate and chase stinging insects out of homes. It was thought to be a home for fairies so patches of it were left alone in gardens for that purpose. It has been used for nervous conditions and as an antispasmodic or asthma, whooping cough and stomach cramps. It is used in cough syrups, for gas relief, worms, and to quiet gastrointestinal complaints. It is used in many cuisines as a flavoring and is highly prized in France. Attracts bees and butterflies.

EXTERNAL USE ONLY

Wormwood is one of the bitter herbs of the Bible and is said to grow along the trail left by the serpent's tail as it slithered out of the Garden of Eden. Wormwood was one of the "strewing herbs," strewn on the floors of homes for its insect repellent effect. It was given, at one time, to people for use as an antiseptic, an antispasmodic, a gas reliever, a tonic and a stimulant. Since it contains thujone, it can be dangerous and internal use is NOT recommended. However, it has several external uses. Skin irritations, bruises and sprains, may be helped with a compress of the herb. It may also be used for relief of rheumatism, neuralgia and arthritis. It is antifungal and antiseptic but care must used as it might cause dermatitis in some people. It is in the Artemisia family and it an interesting plant in the home garden as well as an insect repellent for some pests.

Yarrow was used for so many things by Native Americans that it would probably be easier to list what it WASN'T used for. Some uses that have been verified are its use on wounds. An alkaloid in it seems to have the ability to clot blood. It also has been used for its properties as an anti-inflammatory on wounds. It has salicylic acid derivatives, which are like aspirin, and is used for fevers and pain. The components in Yarrow seem to have different levels according to the part of the plant used and what time of year. That might be why it has been used for so many different ailments. The dried plant is used in arrangements. It has also been used to keep banks from eroding and as a companion plant for other herbs. Some people claim that it helps other herbs essential oils to be stronger when grown near Yarrow but there is no scientific data for this claim.