For centuries, medicinal herbs have played a role in traditional and modern medicine.

They have been used across cultures for their healing properties. These natural remedies offer therapeutic benefits that support physical and mental well-being.

Today, they are more popular than ever.

This is partially due to the health concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

I discovered that over 100 herbs are grown and researched at the National Library of Medicine for their medicinal properties. Some of the medicinal benefits have not yet been proven.

Steps are being taken to ensure the safety of growing medicinal herbs.

Many universities are offering horticulture classes that focus on herbal remedies.

When I started my herb garden five years ago, I planted herbs for their culinary use. I wanted to use them to enhance the flavor of my various recipes.

Last year, I became interested in the medicinal benefits some of these herbs had to offer. Although I was surprised to learn that many of my herbs had medicinal properties, I wanted to do more research before I started using them as an herbal remedy.

Here are a few of the most common herbs I planted and what I learned about them:

• Chamomile is widely known for its calming effects, helping to reduce stress and anxiety while promoting better sleep.

Often used as a tea, it’s a go-to remedy for relaxation and cooled tea can be used to treat rashes or sunburn.

• Peppermint is well known for its soothing effects on digestion and is often used to alleviate digestive discomfort.

• Oregano, packed with antioxidants, boasts strong antimicrobial properties.

It contains compounds like carvacrol and thymol, which may help fight bacterial and fungal infections and it may also aid in lowering blood sugar.

• Lavender is renowned for its calming and relaxing effects, often used to reduce stress, anxiety and insomnia.

Its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties make it valuable for treating minor burns, wounds and skin irritations.

• Echinacea is widely used to strengthen the immune system and is popular for preventing colds and infections.

• Sage has been traditionally used for sore throats, diabetes and managing blood cholesterol levels. You can add it to meals for added health benefits.

• Rosemary frequently is used to treat dandruff and improve memory; rosemary-infused water is also an effective hair rinse.

• Sweet Woodruff is known for its tranquilizing effects, often used to treat insomnia and it makes a lovely sachet when the dried leaves are used.

If you are thinking about starting a medicinal herb garden, these herbs are a great place to start. Be sure to do your homework before using any medicinal herb as a natural remedy.

I plan to do that so I can be sure to use them correctly.

It’s important to note while medicinal herbs may offer health benefits, they should be used with care. They are not a substitute for medical treatment or advice.

Always consult a health care professional before using herbal remedies.

For more information on medicinal herbs, visit https://go.osu.edu/medicinalplants

Kostelic is an Ohio State University Extension Master Gardener Volunteer in Mahoning County.