how herbs can support your mental health
Herbs have been used for thousands of years to support physical health and wellbeing. But did you know that homegrown herbs can also provide significant benefits for your mental health? Growing your own herbs at home can be a simple and affordable way to boost your mental health and overall wellbeing. In this article, we’ll explore some of the benefits of homegrown herbs for your mental health.
- Gardening as a form of therapy
One of the most significant benefits of growing your own herbs is the therapeutic nature of gardening. Gardening has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Spending time outside in nature, connecting with the earth, and engaging in physical activity can all be beneficial for your mental health.
Head to Instagram and follow Anna Greenland for so many gardening tips and tricks.
- Aromatherapy for relaxation
Many herbs, such as lavender and chamomile, are known for their relaxing properties. These herbs can be used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and calmness. Simply growing these herbs in your garden or in pots indoors can provide a source of natural fragrance that can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
Learn more about aromatherapy through the wonderful Neils Yard.
- Herbal teas for stress relief
Herbal teas are a popular way to enjoy the benefits of homegrown herbs. Many herbs, such as lemon balm, passionflower, and valerian, have calming properties that can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Drinking herbal tea can be a simple and effective way to incorporate the benefits of these herbs into your daily routine.
Try my favourite herbal tea range with Pukka Herbs.
- Mood-boosting herbs
Some herbs, such as rosemary and sage, have been shown to have mood-boosting properties. These herbs can be grown in your garden or in pots indoors and used in cooking to add flavour and nutrition to your meals. Incorporating these herbs into your diet can be a simple way to boost your mood and support your mental health.
- Connection to nature
Growing your own herbs at home can help to connect you with nature, which can have a positive impact on your mental health. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Gardening can be a way to bring nature into your home and create a sense of calm and relaxation.
- Sense of accomplishment
Growing your own herbs can provide a sense of accomplishment and pride, which can be beneficial for your mental health. Watching your herbs grow and thrive can be a rewarding experience, and harvesting your herbs and using them in cooking or tea can give you a sense of satisfaction and achievement.
Explore the diary for these delicious recipes and more to try, or head to the Wholesome World app.
- Creative expression
Growing your own herbs can be a form of creative expression, which can be beneficial for your mental health. Designing and planting your garden or arranging herbs in pots can be a way to express your creativity and connect with your senses. This can be a therapeutic and relaxing activity that can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
Try this delicious herb recipe…
TUNA MELT
SERVES 2 // 10 MINS // NF
INGREDIENTS
4 slices Sourdough rye bread
1 can (160g) Tuna
1 dsp Mayonnaise
2 tsp Cloves
20g Cheddar
1 stem Dill
Crack of Black pepper
METHOD
1. Heat the grill to max temperature.
2. Cut 4 slices of bread and pop in the grill, for up to 1 min while
it’s heating.
3. Mix the tuna with the mayonnaise and cloves.
4. Grab the lightly crispy bread out and add the tuna mix to them.
5. Grate the cheddar, layer it on top, and put it into the grill for up
to 5 mins. Rip the dill and throw on, crack the pepper and serve 2 per person.
For more wholesome recipes download the Wholesome World app or get the Wholesome World Cookbook & Life.
To summmarise, growing your own herbs at home can provide significant benefits for your mental health. From aromatherapy to herbal teas, mood-boosting herbs to connection with nature, there are many ways that homegrown herbs can support your mental health and wellbeing. So why not try growing your own herbs and see how they can benefit your mental health? You may be surprised by how much they can improve your mood, reduce your stress, and help you feel more connected to nature and yourself.
