Tag: healing herbs

Yarrow: The Low Maintenance, Powerhouse Flower – Garden Therapy

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With tiny clusters of white, yellow, pink, and red flowers, many bypass the beauty of yarrow for its medicinal benefits. In the home garden, it can be a double hitter! Learn all about the amazing benefits of this herbal plant and how you can grow it in your own garden.

If you’ve been looking to add to your flower bed or herb garden, yarrow will bring you beautiful flowers and amazing health benefits all in one pretty plant. In addition to being drought-resistant and a great attractor of butterflies, yarrow has powerful medicinal qualities dating back all the way to Ancient Greece.

Known as Achillea millefolium, yarrow is an herbaceous perennial native to Europe and Asia with distinct feathery foliage and clustered white flowers (though you can find them in other colours too).

But what about caring for a yarrow plant? I have good news for you! Yarrow is very carefree and will grow happily almost anywhere, making it a perfect plant for beginning herbalists and gardeners alike!

Below I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about growing and caring for yarrow plants, as well as their many benefits and uses.

This post will cover…

LoriAnn’s Green Blessing

This article was reviewed by herbalist LoriAnn Bird. This is not to be used as personal medical advice; always consult your health care professional for individual concerns.

Here is what LoriAnn had to say about yarrow:
Yarrow is found in the circumpolar region of the globe as another subspecies, A.borealis. In the book Plants of Coastal British Columbia by Pojar and MacKinnon, we read that many Coast Salish People of the Pacific Northwest administered yarrow for various conditions that correlate with our Western Herbal Traditions, how interesting!

Note only the white flower species Achillea millefolium is medicinal and this relationship with the human species dates back to the time of the Neandertral 40-60,000 years ago. I remind the children that you can roll the fresh leaf/flower or use it dried between your fingers and stuff up the nose when it’s bleeding. It will stop immediately.

Yarrow has a very diverse nutritional profile so we can add it to tinctures in vinegar (I prefer apple cider vinegar), which is known to extract out the minerals to help support our endocrine system (hormones).

Yarrow is known to help the liver cleanse out too many hormones in the system, can be used for facial steams, improve digestion, and we can also make a flower essence tincture. Flower essences help with our emotional health. Protecting oneself from within. Know that I am a source of my own protection.

Caution do not use when pregnant or if you have allergies in the Asterceae family.

Yarrow Benefits

The yarrow plant has been used medicinally for thousands of years, back to Ancient Greece and Ancient Egypt. Its versatility makes it a must-have in any herbalist’s collection, as its flowers, stalks, and leaves can all make teas, tinctures, and infusions. You can use the yarrow in your garden as a wound healer, aromatic bitter, fever breaker, and much more.

Many know yarrow as a wound healer. During WWI, medics used yarrow to treat soldiers’ wounds, earning it the nicknames Soldiers’ Woundwort and Nosebleed. It’s antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and can be used as an antiseptic and styptic to stop bleeding when made into a poultice.

Yarrow is also a handy plant to have saved during cold and flu season! It’s a widely used diaphoretic, which means it is a powerful fever breaker during those awful shakes when consumed as tea. If you’re congested, yarrow can also help encourage mucus elimination from the sinuses and aid with reducing inflammation.

Believe it or not, there are even more benefits. This powerful plant can also reduce urinary tract infections, relieve gastrointestinal distress, lessen menstrual cramps, and lower blood pressure.

All around, the yarrow is a must-have. Plus, who doesn’t want to see more ladybugs and butterflies in their garden come spring?

How to Plant Yarrow

The wild white flowered yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is what is used for medicinal purposes, but there are so many other vibrant colours available to add to your garden. Yarrow plants are often sold as potted perennials and then propagated by division. If you buy your yarrow as a plant with many stalks in one nursery pot, you can separate them into individual planters or into rows in your garden beds very easily.

First, lift the plant from its nursery pot. Gently remove excess dirt from its roots. Identify the individual stalks or clusters of plants that you want to divide. With a sharp, clean knife cut the sections of plants free from each other, leaving a good section of roots attached to each plant.

If you’re planting into a garden bed, space your plants 12 to 24 inches apart. Cover the root systems in new soil in a section of your garden that gets full sun.

Starting Yarrow from Seed

If you’ve bought yarrow as seeds to start yourself, you’ll want to start them somewhere from six to eight weeks before your last frost date. Sow your yarrow seeds in your regular potting soil. Barely cover them and mist them so that the soil is moist.

If you keep your seeds in a sunny, warm spot in your home (hello, windowsill!) you should see your seeds start to pop up within 14 to 21 days. If it’s a little chillier where you are and you’re worried about germination times, you can always cover the soil with some plastic wrap to trap in the heat and then remove the plastic once you see the seeds pop up.

When you go to move your seedlings into their permanent homes, they’ll thank you for going in well-draining soil. But, they aren’t picky plants! These plants will often grow even in dry soil.

Yarrow Plant Care

Sun

Alright, you’ve started your yarrow and you’re ready to get them growing tall and beautiful! Yarrow needs full sun in order to thrive.

Water

If you live in a climate that gets less rainfall, don’t worry! Yarrow is very drought resistant and tends to survive dry spells.

Once you have your yarrow in the ground it needs very little maintenance. Unless you receive less than 1 inch of rain a week in the summer, you don’t need to water these plants hardly at all.

Fertilizer

If you’re hoping to see your yarrow spread, take it from me—these plants don’t need it! They are very hardy plants and will thrive without any fertilizer. However, if you are in a severe drought and see your plants start to wither, you can fertilize sparingly with water to keep them alive.

Pruning

Though yarrow needs very little maintenance, it’s smart to deadhead flowers when you see them fade partway through the summer. This gives your plants their best chance to grow another round of flowers before the season’s end.

It’s also important to note that yarrow plants are speedy growers and aggressive spreaders. They can grow to be 2 to 4 feet tall and will spread rapidly if left unwatched. Best to keep your eye on these plants, lest they take over your whole garden!

If you see them start to spread more than you’d like, you can dig up the new plants and share them with friends or transplant them to another area of your garden.

Common Issues

Lucky for us, yarrow is a very easy plant that usually stays free of disease. However, pests and diseases are inevitable in most gardens and some may find your yarrow attractive.

If you’re going to face issues with your yarrow, it is likely to be either botrytis mold or powdery mildew. Both of these look like spotting white powder covering the leaves of the yarrow. In both cases, the plant can be treated with natural pest control and you should see the problem clear up in no time.

Occasionally, you might see spittlebugs take up residence in your yarrow, but these little crawlers can be easily removed. You can remove them by hand, wipe up their foam, and drop the larvae into soapy water to dispose of them.

Harvesting

When you’re ready to harvest your yarrow, choose a warm, sunny day when the plants are in full bloom. This is very important! The flowers must be fully opened in order to harvest.

Once opened, check to make sure that any dew collected on the plant overnight has dried. Then, cut the stem of the plant with a sharp pair of scissors above a leaf node.

Frequently Asked Questions About Yarrow

What is Yarrow?

Yarrow is a flowering perennial plant known for its clustered flowers and a vast array of medicinal uses. It is commonly used to heal wounds and lower fevers and can be grown very easily in most gardens.

Where Do You Find Yarrow?

In the wild, yarrow can be found in sunny locations along roadsides, fields, and lawns throughout North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, and South America.

What is Yarrow Good For?

Yarrow is a powerful plant often used for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties both internally and externally. They can be brewed as tea, made into tinctures or infusions. Yarrow can also act as a styptic to stop bleeding and clean wounds.

Is Yarrow a Perennial?

Yarrow is a hardy, flowering perennial that can survive frost in the winter and bloom again in the warmer months. Once you’ve got them planted and well established in the growing months, you can rely on these plants to bloom again year after year.

Let me know any other questions you may have about yarrow down below. Happy growing!

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A city girl who learned to garden and it changed everything. Author, artist, Master Gardener. Better living through plants.

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Stephanie Rose

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February 16, 2026
The Best Natural Sleep Aid: How to Use Herbs for Sleep – Garden Therapy
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Getting a good night’s sleep is easier said than done. With all of the stresses and responsibilities of our busy lives buzzing about our heads late at night, it can be tough to get the restful slumber that our bodies and minds need to function at their best. Here’s how to use common herbs for sleep – and you’ll be resting easy in no time.

If you’re anything like me, it can be quite challenging to turn off all the stimuli and get a good night’s rest. I’ve been there! Thankfully, I’ve discovered the best natural sleep aid…herbs!

There are two things that made the biggest difference for me: creating an evening routine and incorporating some of these natural sleep aids.

Using these herbs for sleep can do wonders for your sleep schedule, and in turn, your whole life. Trust me, EVERYTHING seems easier after a good night’s sleep!

Creating a Bedtime Routine: an Easy Natural Sleep Aid

Before we get into the list of herbs for sleep (and how to use them), let’s first chat about the importance of building healthy sleep habits and creating good sleep hygiene (yes, it’s a thing!).

Building up healthy sleep habits can be difficult at first, but it is one of the most important things we can do for ourselves. Creating a regular nightly routine of calming activities about an hour before bed helps to wind down at the end of the day so that your body and mind are calm and ready to head into a restful slumber once your head hits the pillow.

Quick Tips for Healthy Sleep Habits

The phrase “sleep hygiene” refers to creating a series of healthy sleep habits. These habits will help improve your ability not just to fall asleep, but also to stay there. Just as showering and brushing our teeth is a part of our personal hygiene, these healthy sleep habits should become part of our daily routine.

Here are some quick tips for good sleep hygiene:
- Keep your sleep schedule consistent. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every single day of the week…yes, even the weekend! This will help your body create a consistent schedule and find its rhythm. If you have kids and pets you know they don’t switch their sleep schedule for the weekend (as frustrating as that may be!).
- Get at least 7 hours of sleep each night. This is a tough one, especially if you have a hectic life and/or small children. Prioritize your sleep over everything else wherever you can to get that good, restful sleep.
- Eat well. Yes, a poor diet can affect your ability to sleep. Take care of yourself and your body will follow suit.
- Exercise regularly. Getting regular moderate exercise is important to tire out your body enough that it can rest. No need to hop on the treadmill before bedtime, that could stimulate you more! Being sedentary can also affect the quality of your sleep. Even when you are feeling unwell, try to get up and do something that gets your body moving so you can rest well at the end of the day.
- Limit exposure to bright light 30 minutes to an hour before bed. Blue light right before bed can be disruptive to your sleep. This means you should turn off the television, and yes…even your phone right before bed. If you have to use either, try using blue light blocking glasses to see if they help.
- Relax. Allow your body to relax fully, especially if you have tension or pain. A herbal bath using bath salts or tub teas makes all the difference for me, as the Epsom salts helps to ease muscle pain and even Restless Leg Syndrome.
There are many more helpful tips and tricks you can use to build good sleep hygiene. There’s a good list from the CDC with tips for getting better sleep.

Best Herbs for Sleep

Now…let’s talk herbs for sleep! Incorporating these natural sleep aids into your nighttime routine can help to relax you even more. The ritual of sipping a cup of herbal tea or taking a lavender-scented soak before bed can also become a central part of your wind-down routine.

These herbs are the ones to reach for when you are tossing and turning at night. It may take some trial and error to see what your body responds to best, but these plant-based remedies are an easy thing to start with. So put down the “To-Do” list, turn off your phone, and get started on a healthy herbal bedtime ritual with these natural sleep remedies.

Hops – Humulus lupulus

Hops contain methylbutenol, a chemical that induces sleep when consumed. You can brew hops into a natural bedtime tea to help you sleep. The tea is bitter, so you may want to add honey, stevia, or the sweetener of your choice. You can also blend it with other calming herbs such as mint and chamomile for a sleepy tea that tastes more appealing.

Simply smelling the aroma of hops also helps to calm and promote sleep, so another option is to make a small sachet filled with dried hops and slip it inside your pillowcase for sweet dreams.

Mint – Mentha

Although the bright scent of mint is often associated with energy and invigoration, mint is also a powerful herb to use at nighttime to get ready for bed. It makes a delicious, soothing tea that relaxes muscles. Mint also reduces uncomfortable bloating and stomach pain caused by gas, so if a sore tummy is keeping you up at night, reach for a cup of mint tea with honey.

This natural sleep aid also has a more appealing taste than some of the other herbs for sleep on this list, so you may want to add some mint leaves to a tea of passionflower or hops if you want to disguise the taste without diminishing the effects of those herbs.

Chamomile – Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile contains apigenin, a compound that releases a mild sedative and works to calm the nerves. Chamomile can also help to soothe an upset tummy, so chamomile can help to remedy discomfort from digestive problems while relaxing your body and mind. Chamomile and mint together make a relaxing before-bed tea that will also help with pain related to digestion.

Chamomile is a mild, gentle herb for sleep. Despite this, it’s surprisingly potent and effective! If you have pain at night that prevents you from getting a good rest, this can be one of the best natural sleep remedies to try.

Rosemary Gladstarr, the mother of modern herbalism, sites the power of chamomile in her book, Medicinal Herbs. She sites a clinical study in which 10 out of 12 people who drink chamomile tea instead of taking their normal pain medication went into a deep restful sleep within 10 minutes of retiring. Now that’s powerful!

Passionflower – Passiflora incarnate

Passionflower is a natural sleep aid that is calming and promotes deep, restful sleep. This herb for sleep is often used to reduce anxiety and induce sleep safely and naturally. Passionflower contains nerve-relaxing flavonoids, which calm the nerves and result in relaxation and reduce anxiety, which in turn allows us to fall into a restful slumber.

You can take passionflower in the form of tinctures, capsules, or tea. I recommend tea because just the ritual of drinking a hot mug of tea before bed is relaxing in itself.

Lavender – Lavandula angustifolia

Inhaling the fragrance of lavender calms the body and mind, and it has a mild sedative effect that can help to induce sleep. While you can certainly brew a lavender tea to help you wind down at the end of the day, a more effective way to use the lavender herb for sleep is through aromatherapy.

You can make a lavender sachet in seconds—simply stuff a small drawstring bag with dried lavender flowers and tie it closed. Pop the sachet inside your pillowcase for a restful slumber, or spritz some lavender pillow spray onto your linens.

I especially like to use lavender sachets when traveling because it is an easy way to make an unfamiliar sleeping situation feel homier. Plus, lavender has antibacterial and antifungal properties so you can rest easy, even on a hotel pillow that has been used by many others before you.

Another great way to use lavender for sleep is in the bath. Taking a hot soak before bed is a wonderful way to unwind and soothe any tension or sore muscles at the end of the day, and adding a little lavender to the bath will make it even more restful and get you ready to doze off afterward. Simply add a few drops of lavender essential oil directly to your bathwater, or try these DIY lavender bath melts or lavender bath salts.

Lemon Balm – Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm is a member of the mint family, and has all those good qualities of the mint plant, with a different flavor. If you don’t care for the taste of mint, give lemon balm a try! As the name suggests, fresh lemon balm tastes bright and citrusy, so fans of lemon will like it.

Steep a handful of lemon balm leaves in hot water to make a DIY natural sleep aid that comes right from your garden. I have found lemon balm to be incredibly useful and effective for a wide variety of other things, including attracting bees to your garden and combating stress and fatigue. Here’s a guide I put together with everything you need to know about growing, harvesting, and using lemon balm.

How to Add Herbs to Your Bedtime Routine
- Brew an herbal tea and drink it 30 minutes to an hour before bedtime. Here’s a handy guide on how to harvest and brew your own herbal tea. Combine drinking your mug of tea with another relaxing activity like taking a bath or reading a novel in bed (no screens, though).
- Take a hot bath and soak for at least 20 minutes. Add a few drops of essential oils to the water or make a tub tea with your favorite combination of the above herbs for sleep.
- Rub a relaxing essential oil blend on your feet. In the summer I use lavender and during cold-and-flu season I use a combination of lavender and Thieves oil to boost immunity. Giving yourself a foot massage before bed will relax muscle tension and calm your body, while the fragrance of the essential oils will relax your mind.
- Tuck lavender or hops sachets into your pillow so that you can benefit from these herbs’ sleep-inducing properties as you rest your head.
- Spritz your bed linens with lavender pillow spray to give your entire bed a relaxing scent.
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A city girl who learned to garden and it changed everything. Author, artist, Master Gardener. Better living through plants.
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Stephanie Rose

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January 30, 2026
Herbal Guide to Thyme: Growing, Benefits, and Uses
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Thyme is one of the best herbs you can have growing in your garden this (or any) year. Here’s everything you need to know about thyme benefits, uses, and growing thyme.

With cold and flu season on the way, thyme is a powerful herb you will want on your side. Thyme is a well-known aid for the upper respiratory and digestive systems, which can help you with coughing, phlegm, nausea, and other symptoms.

Thyme is also the perfect addition to the chef’s spice rack. It packs a punch of flavour, but its powerful remedial actions make it a must-have for the herbal cabinet.

Thyme is the general name for 300-400 species around the world. Its botanical name is Thymus vulgaris and it is a part of the mint family, Lamiaceae. Thyme is native to Europe and Asia and likes to grow in temperate climates. Thyme benefits are numerous, and it is additionally known for its great flavour, it is used for culinary, medicinal, ritual, and ornamental purposes.

There’s a lot to know about this versatile herb, so let’s jump in.

Thyme grows as a perennial in many climates.

LoriAnn’s Green Blessings

This article was reviewed by herbalist LoriAnn Bird. This is not to be used as personal medical advice; always consult your health care professional for individual concerns.

This is what LoriAnn has to say about Thyme:

Vulgaris is Latin for commonly known or something that is derived from the masses of common people. How interesting that the species with the name vulgaris tells us this plant was commonly used for its many benefits.

I would suggest, which is fast and simple, steaming this helpful herb for its ability to open up the airways and breath in all it’s antimicrobial properties. Research on Japanese forest bathing called shinrin-yoku confirms that plant aerosols keep us healthy.

Thyme is known as an upper respiratory aid.

History of Thyme

Thyme has a deep connection to our fuzzy buzzing friends, bees. Burning thyme in your house was believed to help get rid of insects, and it was also used as a fumigator for early beekeeping in Rome. The herb is a favourite among bees and was used as a sign to determine the quality of the honey that year. Later in the Middle Ages, women would also embroider a bee and thyme together on scarves, which they gifted to knights.

This gifting practice stemmed from thyme representing courage and respect. Roman soldiers would exchange sprigs of thyme and bathe in it in an effort to be more courageous.

In addition to ridding the house of insects, they would also burn the herb to help purify their homes and to conjure courage. The botanical name, thymus, is tied to the Greek word thymos, which represents strength, courage, spirit, and anger.

In the 19th century, dentists used certain constituents of thyme to treat oral abscesses and inflammation. Thyme was used in ancient times medically for embalming practices as well as lung and respiratory support.

Of course, the thyme herb is a cooking staple in stews, poultry, stuffing, marinades, dressings, and baked goods. It was also used to keep bacteria from growing in meat and vegetables before refrigeration was invented.

Thyme is also tied to a hint of whimsy. The Victorians believed that a patch of thyme found in the woods meant that fairies danced and lived there. Areas of thyme were believed to hold fairy houses and were home to fairies who helped tend the garden. Shakespeare reinforced this reference in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, where Titania the Fairy Queen’s shelter is “a bank where the wild thyme blows…” If growing thyme brings fairies to my garden, you can count me in!

Thyme has been a herbal staple for centuries.

Thyme Benefits for Health

As mentioned above, thyme’s benefits are numerous and impressive. Here are just a few ways this herb can aid your health.

A Respiratory Aid

Throughout history and still to this day, thyme is well known as a respiratory aid. Thymol, the primary chemical constituent of thyme, is antispasmodic, antimicrobial, and an expectorant.

The herb is commonly used for breathing difficulties as it works as a bronchodilator and an anti-inflammatory agent. It can be a helpful aid for chronic lung and respiratory problems and has a soothing effect on sore throats for laryngitis and tonsillitis.

Historic uses for it include asthma, shortness of breath, and whooping cough. Today’s research has yet to prove that thyme can be beneficial to asthma, but more research is underway to confirm its traditional use in this area. Current studies suggest that it could help decrease inflammatory responses and allergic varieties of asthma.

Traditional Chinese medicine also reinforces the use of thyme for the respiratory system. The lungs, spleen, and stomach are considered meridians for thyme. The warming effect of thyme on the lungs helps to clear congestion, phlegm, asthma, and tuberculosis, and supports the system during the cold season.

The traditional use of tea (with a recipe at the end of this post!) is a great way to utilize these healing properties of thyme.

Many use thyme tea as a primary way to enjoy its respiratory benefits.

Digestion Aid

Thyme is also widely known as a powerful herb for the digestive system. Thymol improves digestion, relaxes the smooth muscles of the intestinal tract, and can help prevent menstrual cramps. Thyme is a carminative, meaning it dispels gas and is also antispasmodic. Because of its action on relaxing smooth muscles of the intestinal tract, it makes a great digestive aid and can be helpful for colic, gas, and spasms.

The warming effects of thyme can also help to warm up cold intestines and can improve appetite. It stimulates the movement of blood, oxygen, and energy to the digestive system, which is how it helps to combat bloating, gas, and upset stomachs. As mentioned above, it is also connected to the spleen and stomach meridians in traditional Chinese medicine.

More Thyme Benefits and Uses

In addition to helping us breathe and digest, thyme is also widely used to protect against infections. The thymol in thyme has many benefits as it is an antioxidant and has antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifungal, and wound healing properties.

Traditional Chinese Medicine uses thyme to aid colds, skin infections, and parasites to help support immunity against infections. Dentists of the 19th century also had it right, as it is still used in dentistry for the treatment of cavity infections due to its antimicrobial actions.

Thyme has a warming effect, and thyme essential oil can feel very irritating to the skin. However, the herb is much milder and safer than the thymol isolation. Its warming effect makes it a great addition to joint and muscle liniments and salves, or for cleansing cuts and wounds. Its strong antifungal properties also make thyme effective for fungal conditions on skin and nails.

Thyme is also a nervine, meaning it can help to calm the nerves. It works best when used to treat chronic fatigue, melancholy, tension, anxiety, and mental and physical exhaustion. The herb has also been used as a mood balancer. It can be both stimulating and relaxing, bringing the body back to proper balance.

It should be noted that thyme may not be appropriate for pregnant women due to its traditional use as an emmenagogue.

Thyme has antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifungal properties.

How To Grow Thyme

Botanical name: Thymus vulgaris
Family: Lamiaceae
USDA Zone: 4 to 11
Height: 12 to 18 inches
Spacing: 18 to 24 inches
Light: Full sun
Water: Drought-tolerant. Average water needs. Water regularly. Do not overwater.

Thyme is fairly drought-tolerant, though it prefers temperate climates.

More Tips for Growing Thyme

Thyme is a low-growing perennial; a fragrant herb with a pungent, clover flavour. It has small, fragrant leaves and thin, woody stems. The culinary types are evergreen. There are many different varieties, and fresh or English thyme is most used in cooking.

Starting thyme from seed indoors is difficult. Growing thyme can be slow and difficult because germination is uneven. It’s easier to buy the plants from the store or take cuttings from a friend and then propagate your own cuttings over time. Plant in the garden near cabbage and tomatoes, or drought-tolerant plants. Growing thyme indoors beside rosemary works well because they have similar needs. Make sure the soil is well-drained.

Water deeply only when the soil is completely dry. Prune the plants in spring or summer to contain growth and mulch lightly for winter after the ground freezes. Divide plants every three to four years, as they will go woody over time and produce leaves with less flavour.

For the culinary artists or plain Jane home cooks, thyme is a great addition to your indoor herb garden. It takes well to being clipped often and can be used as a handy fresh herb at your disposal in the kitchen.

Thyme grows well in containers.

How To Harvest Thyme

To get the most thyme benefits from the plant possible, try to harvest before the herb flowers. This can be done any time during the summer if you’re growing outside in the morning after the dew has dried.

Cut off five to six inches of growth from the top of the head. You will want to leave behind the tough, woody parts of the plant.

Try to avoid washing the cleaner leaves, as it may remove some of the important essential oils. You can harvest two or more crops during the season. Keep the plant growing by continually trimming it, but leave a minimum of five inches so it will thrive.

Avoid harvesting the woody stems, instead opting for the top, frehs growth.

How to Dry & Store Thyme

Fresh is always best! The powerful oils in thyme are key to the herb. For fresh thyme, lightly wrap the plant in plastic and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

If you are going to be using dried thyme, it must be done so carefully to preserve the oils. Bundle the thyme with string and hang in a warm, dark, well-ventilated room out of direct sunlight. Alternatively, place the herb on a tray with wax paper and dry. Once dried, store in a clean, sterilized, airtight container for up to two years. Crush the herb just before using.

Both fresh and dry herbs should be covered in storage to help retain the oils. The more oil, the more powerful and useful your thyme will be!

How to Use Thyme – 3 Recipes

Thyme is such a great addition to your herbal medicine cabinet. There are many ways to utilize the powerful properties in thyme, and I have detailed a few of my favourites below. As with any herb, be sure to proceed with caution and consult your primary health care provider before using thyme.

How do you use thyme? Let me know in the comments down below how you utilize this amazing herb.
Soothing Digestive Thyme Tea

The traditional use of thyme tea (with a recipe at the end of this post!) is a great way to utilize these healing properties of thyme.

Cook Time5 minutes

Total Time5 minutes

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: Herbal remedy

Keyword: tea, thyme

Servings: 1 cup

Calories: 6kcal

2 tsp dried thyme

1 cup boiling water

Place herbs in a tea infuser.

Pour boiling water over top and let steep.

Drink up to 3 times a day. Avoid during pregnancy.

Serving: 1cup | Calories: 6kcal
Thyme Herbal Honey

This recipe comes from the Herbal Academy’s Herbal Home Remedies for Colds and Flu.

Cook Time20 minutes

Total Time20 minutes

Course: Sweetener

Cuisine: miscellaneous

Keyword: drawing salve, dried herbs, honey, raw, thyme

Servings: 60 teaspoons

Calories: 21kcal

1 cup raw honey

¼ cup dried thyme

Combine honey and herbs into a sterilized glass jar. Place jar into a double boiler.

Heat on low heat for 15-20 minutes. Stir regularly and do not let the honey boil or scorch.

Remove from heat and let cool.

Enjoy immediately or steep for 2 weeks before using.

Add to food or use it in cold and flu tea for an extra antimicrobial boost.

Serving: 1tsp | Calories: 21kcal
Thyme & Sage Culinary Salts

This recipe comes from the Herbal Academy’s DIY Edible Gifts to Make at the Last Minute.

Course: Seasoning

Cuisine: miscellaneous

Keyword: dried herbs, easy, quick, salt

Servings: 240 servings

Calories: 0.1kcal

2 tbsp dried thyme

2 tbsp dried sage

1 cup coarse salt

Add herbs to salts. Give the mixture a quick stir and taste-test.

Add more herbs as needed.

If using an extra coarse salt, grind quickly in a blender to make it finer.

Store the salts in a clean, dry, and sterile saltshaker to prevent spoilage. Use it to flavor dishes or gift to a friend.

Serving: 0.25tsp | Calories: 0.1kcal
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A city girl who learned to garden and it changed everything. Author, artist, Master Gardener. Better living through plants.
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Stephanie Rose

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October 8, 2025
Herbal Guide to Hops: Growing, Harvesting, and Using Hops Plant – Garden Therapy

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No garden should be without a hops plant. And not just because it makes great beer! There’s so much more to know about hops as a wonderful ornamental garden plant and powerful healing herb. This guide to hops will show you why you should absolutely grow it as an ornamental, how to harvest the strobiles, and how to dry and use hops for insomnia and anxiety.

The beautiful hops arbour.

Over ten years ago, I went on a garden tour where the homeowner had a beautiful arbour covered in gorgeous golden flowers that looked like paper pinecones. I was drawn to this arbour, and as I stood underneath it, I was able to breathe in the aroma that can be described as none other than hoppy. It’s not a sweet or floral smell, and yet I was immediately relaxed.

The combination of the plant’s prolificness, the beauty of the arbour covered in flowers and green leaves, and the heady, bitter smell of hops was intoxicating. It was at that moment that I knew I wanted hops in my garden, too.

I didn’t grow it to make my own beer but rather for the beauty it provides as an ornamental. Little did I know I was growing a powerful, unsung hero. It can cover a whole trellis in one summer, make beautiful dried flower arrangements, put me to sleep, and even decorate a wreath.

So really, what can’t hops do? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about hops.

Hop bines fresh and ripe on the plant.

Lori’s Green Blessings

This article was reviewed by herbalist Lori Snyder. This is not to be used as personal medical advice; always consult your health care professional for individual concerns.

Here is what Lori had to say:

Humulus lupulus is native to North America, Europe, and Asia. Various nations like the Cherokee, Delaware, Dakota, and Ojibwa accessed hops for their analgesic properties, used as a gynecological aid, a sedative, gastrointestinal pains, toothache, and earache remedy. The Algonquin peoples of Quebec used to make bread and cake hops! In Traditional Chinese Medicine, hops were used for insomnia, restlessness, indigestion, intestinal cramps, and lack of appetite. By soothing the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract, hops affect the “second brain” known as the enteric nervous system, relaxing the central nervous system. Hops have a mild influence on estrogen and may cause menstrual irregularities.

What Do Hops Look Like?

Hops have long leaves and the flowers resemble light green pinecones. The flowers dry to a warm golden colour and hold their shape well. The bines stay intact when cut and it makes them perfect to wind around a grapevine wreath for festive fall decoration.

Dried hop bines made into a wreath.

Hops Flower Benefits

Because of the sheer volume of hops that the bines produce in a season, I have dried many flowers and tested out many recipes.

Helps Reduce Insomnia

My favourite is to tuck them into sachets in my pillow to help aid insomnia. In fact, hops are one of my top recommendations for herbs to help you sleep!

This practice dates all the way back to 9^th century Europe when the hops plant first became a useful tool for herbal medicine. Field workers who were working with hops plants to grow beer would often fall asleep on the job compared to other workers. People connected the dots and started using the sedative effects to help with sleep and anxiety disorders.

You can read more about fascinating herbal histories from around the world here.

Reduces Menopausal Symptoms

The plant also has estrogen-like characteristics as it contains phytoestrogens. These share many properties similar to human estrogen, meaning hops can help treat menopausal symptoms.

Helps with Anxiety

Like many people, I’ve struggled with anxiety and insomnia. Daily stresses, money troubles, family trauma, and chronic pain have done their part to make it hard for me to sleep some nights, which can lead to anxiety.

I work hard to maintain healthy sleep habits because sleep is so important for the body to heal. Including hops in a variety of ways has been really good for me, but please keep in mind that hops’ strong sedative properties mean that they may not be the right herb to use for people with depression.

However, if you’re looking for something to help you slow down and rest, hops are the way to go. Especially when you grow this prolific plant in your own garden.

Hops are one of the best herbs to aid with insomnia.

Growing Hops at Home

Hops (Humulus lupulus) can reach staggering heights in a short growing season. They grow on climbing bines (not vines) where the stems wrap-around support structures (like pole beans) rather than attaching like a vine by tendrils or suckers (like peas).

Hops flowers will always twist in a clockwise direction, even if you try your best to get them to go another way. So let them do their own thing!

Build a tall trellis or arbour to let them twist and climb and you will notice how they fill it up quickly. In fact, they can grow up to 12 inches a day! Talk about a lot of hops.

Hops are a climbing plant and will need something to support their growth.

The plants are hardy in Zones 3-8. They like deep, well-draining soil in full sun. Hops can be started from seed, but they can grow into male or female plants.

Female plants produce the strobiles, or the leaf bracts surrounding small flowers. AKA, the hops flower cones you see pictured above and the ones used to make beer. Instead, take a rhizome division from an established female plant, you don’t need a male plant for flowering.

This is a great video on how to grow hops in your home garden.

Drying and Harvesting Hops Flowers

Hops are in the same family as cannabis and hemp, so if you have grown cannabis before, you may find the hops plant has some similarities. The best time for harvesting hops is when they have ripened on the bines in the late summer. Do not pick them early, or they will not ripen.

They are ready to pick when they are papery, springy to the touch, and a bit sticky. They should smell distinctively hoppy when they are ready. Check them by smelling first, then gently squeezing one between your index finger and thumb to test how they feel.

You can pick ripe hops one by one or remove bines from the plant. Unless you are making beer, you should have plenty to leave in the garden in the fall and winter as well. I only take a small fraction of the plant to use and leave the rest to overwinter.

I hang my hops to dry in my studio and it provides decoration, aroma, and a perfect spot to dry them. You can also use a food dehydrator or oven-dry hops if you are in a hurry. More hop drying methods can be found here.

Dried hops will feel papery to the touch.

Using Hops Plant as an Herb

Beyond beer, what are hops used for? Since it’s such an uncommon herb to grow in the garden, it’s no wonder I often get this question whenever someone sees my hops plant. And before you ask, NO it does not have the same smoking effect as its closely related family member, cannabis.

The herbal part of the plant is the strobiles that hold the flowers and pollen that in turn contain lupulin, bitters, resin, and oil. The herb is used for calming: reducing anxiety, encouraging sleep, taming an upset tummy, and even helping to temper sexual desire. Keep this in mind when you are planning to use hops as an herb. If you have excess energy that could use balancing out, hops could be very helpful.

While you technically can eat hops, I wouldn’t recommend it due to its taste. The best way to enjoy the herbal benefits of hops is with tea.

Hops are quite bitter as a tea, and the flavour can be hard for some people to tolerate. However, their bitterness is actually a plus when it comes to digestion. Bitter herbs help to stimulate digestion, so you can use them to make homemade bitters and take ½ teaspoons before meals.

The hops plant is a wonderful herb to use in natural skincare recipes as well. Try infusing oils with hops to use in soap and healing salves. Hops’ calming effect works on the skin as well to reduce inflammation and help with both wrinkles and acne.

For anxiety and insomnia, you can try taking a hops tincture or making a dream pillow to fall asleep with at night.

Enjoy hops as a tincture to get the benefits without too much bitterness.

FAQ About the Hops Plant

When is the best time to harvest hops?

Hops are ready for harvest in late summer, usually beginning in mid-August through to September. You want the brines to be fully ripe, as they will not ripen any more once picked.

How do you overwinter hops?

Cut back a majority of the bines and unwind them from their trellis or structure. Leave behind 1-3 ft. of the bine, as this can help prevent crown damage. The plant will remain insulated and fed.

What variety of hops is native to North America?

Hops are native to North America, Europe, and Asia. Only the perennial hops, Humulus lupulus, is native to North America. The Asian annual, Humulus japnicus, is a naturalized weed found in eastern North America, though it is not native.

Are hops poisonous to dogs?

Yes, hops are poisonous to dogs. They can cause severe symptoms and dogs who ingest hops should seek a vet’s attention immediately.

More Herbal Growing Guides

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Stephanie Rose

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October 14, 2024
Harvesting Herbs, Healing, and How to Make the Perfect Cup of Herbal Tea – Garden Therapy

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There is an art to steeping tea, especially when it comes to herbal tea grown right in the garden. There are many herbs for tea you can grow in the garden to make a healing and soothing cup right at home. Here’s how to harvest, prepare, and enjoy your herbal tea.

There are few things as satisfying as the ritual of harvesting fragrant herbs and then using them to make wonderful herbal tea. Preparing a cup of tea signals your body to focus inward and heal what ails you.

When you also grow the herbs in your garden, the ritual expands to a full experience. Growing herbs and enjoying their aromas, beauty, and attractiveness to pollinators allows you to feed your body, and it makes sipping tea much more savoured.

The careful harvest and preparation of herbs for tea becomes part of the tea ritual and ensures that you get the perfect brew.

The warmth of hot tea can warm cold bones, comfort an upset tummy, soothe a sore throat, or help you fall asleep. Iced herbal tea can quench your thirst, cool your body temperature, replace lost electrolytes, and help with digestion.

The temperature of the tea doesn’t matter, it’s the match of the herbs you include with what your body needs (I wrote more about that in this post on the medicinal plants to include in an herbal tea garden).

Today I will share more about harvesting herbs, drying or preserving their flavours, and how to steep the perfect cup of herbal tea.

How to Harvest Herbs for Tea

If you feel inclined, take a moment before harvesting to appreciate your plants. They have worked hard to offer so much goodness to the world, and gratitude is good therapy.

Cut herbs for tea with clean, sharp pruners first thing in the morning before the day heats up. This will maintain the most freshness in the leaves as well as cause less stress to the plant. If you are using leaves for tea, cut the stem off the plant and then remove the leaves from the stem (as opposed to plucking leaves off the plant and leaving it with bare stems).

Some herbs, like mint, lemon balm, and basil, can handle having one-third of the plant removed. Cut the stems down to one-third of the full height, just above a set of leaves. The plant will send out new shoots from the cut branch, making a fuller, bushier plant.

When using flowering herbs for tea, wait until the flowers are fully formed and remove all of the flower heads that are mature. Avoid harvesting the buds for chamomile and calendula (go for open flowers instead), but harvest the buds before they bloom when cutting lavender.

All herbs are different, so for best results research the best practices to harvest the particular herbs that you are growing.

You can use fresh or dried materials to make your tea.

Herbal Tea Infusions and Decoctions

Infusions are made from plant leaves and flowers, while decoctions are made from tougher parts of the plant, such as roots, stems, or seeds.

To make an infusion, pour boiling water over the tea ingredients and allow them to steep. Most herbal teas will not become bitter if steeped for a long time, so you can allow the herbs to infuse for 15-30 minutes or drink it sooner if you are happy with the strength of the tea.

To make a decoction, place the ingredients into a pot, cover with water, and simmer for 15-30 minutes. Again, you can strain out the herbs and drink it sooner if you are happy with the strength of the tea.

Herbal tea doesn’t usually get bitter from oversteeping.

Fresh Herbs for Tea

Fresh herbs can be used for making a great cup of tea. After harvest, inspect the leaves for any disease or pests (you don’t want to steep those!) and wash the leaves if you like. I grow all of my plants organically so there is really no need to wash them.

To make the perfect cup of tea from fresh herbs, bruise the leaves with a mortar and pestle. Next, place a tablespoon of bruised leaves in a cup and pour hot water over them. Allow the leaves to steep for five minutes or longer if you want a deeper flavour.

Some herbs, like lemon balm, are best enjoyed fresh.

Drying Herbs for Tea

To dry herbs for tea, you can use a food dehydrator or air dry them. Herbs are delicate and need gentle heat, so even though many do dry them in the oven on low, I still find that too high for herbs.

Whether you’re using a food dehydrator or the air-dry method, space out herbs well to get plenty of air circulation. When the herbs are completely dry, store them in a pretty, airtight container like a vintage Mason jar. Replace any unused herbs the following year when the herb harvest is ready again.

To make the perfect cup of tea from dried herbs, you can use a paper tea filter or loose tea ball to keep the herbs contained. Start with five minutes of steeping and taste to determine whether it is ready to drink. The tea will become more flavourful the longer it steeps.

Use dried herbs within a year, as they lose flavour and properties as they age.

Freezing Herbs for Tea

You can also pop fresh herbs in the freezer for use in teas. Put whole leaves into freezer bags and store them in the freezer for three to six months. The act of freezing will preserve the flavour and thawing will bruise the leaves and release their flavor. Discard the leaves if they become freezer burnt or begin to take on an odd odour.

To make the perfect cup of tea from frozen herbs, add frozen leaves to a cup or teapot and pour hot water over them. The hot water will quickly thaw the leaves and begin infusing them with flavour. Steep for five minutes or longer to achieve the best flavour.

Frozen tea leaves help to retain flavour and properties for herbs best enjoyed fresh.

How to Make the Perfect Cup of Tea

No matter what the season, I start my days by making a big pot of herbal tea to drink throughout the day. I have a few teapots and an amazing thermos that keeps the tea fresh all day.

I find that making just one cup at a time uses too much energy—both my own efforts and the heat required to boil water multiple times a day. In the morning, I decide on what type of tea I will drink for the day and experiment with flavours.

Herbs can be steeped directly in water and then strained out when you store the tea for the rest of the day. Or you can use a variety of different products to contain the tea: paper tea filters, tea balls, a tea pot with a tea filter, or even a coffee press.

Make one pot of tea a day, and reheat if necessary…or enjoy cold!

Hot Tea

To make hot tea, pour water that has just reached boiling over the herbs in a large teapot and steep. Strain out the herbs and pour the tea into a large thermos to keep it piping hot throughout the day. Tea should be drunk or discarded by the end of the day (12 hours).

Iced Tea

To make iced tea, pour water that has just reached boiling over the herbs in a large teapot and steep. Strain out the herbs pour the tea into a glass bottle and move to the refrigerator. Iced tea will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.

Sun Tea

I also enjoy making sun tea when I’m out and about in the garden. This involves letting the sun steep the tea! See how to make sun tea here.

FAQ About Using Herbs for Tea

Is herbal tea okay to drink during pregnancy?

There are certain teas that can be very beneficial during pregnancy, while some herbal teas should be avoided altogether during different parts of pregnancy. It’s best to get a personalized plant from your healthcare provider or herbalist.

What is a good herbal tea to drink before bed?

Lemon balm and chamomile taste delicious together and are a great tea to have before bed to send you off to dreamland. Chamomile contains a compound known as apigenin that works as a mild sedative and helps to calm nerves. The mint family, such as lemon balm, can help to soothe a sore tummy as well as relax muscles.

Is it better to use fresh or dried herbs for tea?

Fresh herbs contain the most healing properties from the plant, so fresh is best. However, dried herbs also work well and will still contain lots of flavour and properties from the plant. Use fresh while you have them, and dry whatever you have left at the end of the season to enjoy until the following year.

Herbal tea is a wonderful and simple way to add a little ritual, health, and mindfulness to your day. I hope you add it to your routine and enjoy it as much as I do.

More Ways to Enjoy Garden Herbs

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Stephanie Rose

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October 1, 2024
Herbal Guide to St. John’s Wort: How to Grow, Harvest, and Use St. Johns
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St. John’s wort is a cheerful, useful plant that any herbalist can easily add to her medicine cabinet. Here is the history of the plant and how to grow it (or forage it). Plus, learn the benefits of St. John’s wort, plus three different ways you can use it.

Recently, I was out for a walk with my herbalist friend, Lori Snyder, and we started talking about St. John’s Wort. I met Lori a few years ago when she left a comment here on Garden Therapy, and I immediately recognized her name as a local herbal teacher in Vancouver who offers many herb walks and plant talks. I messaged her directly to say hello, and a friendship was born!

Over the years, I have attended many of Lori’s herb walks, and plant medicine talks both in-person and online. On the day we chatted about St. John’s Wort, it was blooming all around us and Lori mentioned that with the worldwide uncertainly and stress, folks could really use some of its wonderful benefits.

I invited Lori to share her wisdom with us today. I will hand it over to her now so you can get to know my dear friend and this timely healing herb.

While no longer popular, St. John’s wort has a long history of herbal use.

Herbal Guide to St. John’s Wort

Written by Lori Snyder

St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) is often labeled a weed which is not really her true identity nor a representation of her true gifts. After all, “wort” is an old English word for “herb”.

The History of St John’s Wort

Like so many ‘weeds,’ there can be a lot of conflicting information. Sometimes, we forget how long these medicinal healing plants have been growing with us and helping us stay balanced and healthy.

Back in the 1800s, if your neighbour was sad, overwhelmed, and anxious (like many of us are today), you would have thought they were possessed! The village herbalist would recommend they drink St. John’s wort flower tea and after 6-8 weeks the neighbour would have reported that they felt like a light inside them had turned back on. That’s because this magical healing plant is said to help with mild to moderate depression.

This has been proven true in modern times as well. In fact, research in Germany has recognized St. John’s wort to be helpful for depression officially since 1984.

St. John’s wort flowers from May to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September.

Growing the St. John’s Wort Plant

St. John’s wort is described as a mid-size perennial with yellow flowers which differs from other Hypericums by the “perforations” in the leaf, filled with red resinous glands of hypericin and other active compounds.

Planting: St John’s Wort spreads by seed and well as an active vegetative root.

Height and Spread: It will grow to 0.9 m (3ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in).

Zone: USDA plant hardiness zones 5 through 10.

Soil: St John’s Wort grows well in sand, clay, rocky soil or loam, and tolerates acidic to slightly alkaline pH.

Light requirements: St. John’s wort can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade.

Watering: St. John’s wort prefers moist soil.

Flowering: St. John’s wort is in flower from May to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by bees and flies. The plant is self-fertile.

Invasive Species Alert

In the US and Canada, St. John’s wort is often considered a noxious weed, also referred to as Klamath weed. The BC Invasive Species Council warns that St. John’s Wort can cause injury to light-skinned cattle and has a protective covering on the seeds that allows it to survive for up to 10 years. Additionally, a single plant can produce up to 100,000 seeds.

Keep in mind that what is a weed to some is a wildflower to others. St. John’s Wort is full of wonderful properties beneficial for people, the land, and our pollinators.

St. John’s wort is a perennial, and self-fertile.

Foraging the St. John’s Wort Plant

You might find the St. John’s Wort plant growing anywhere soil has been disturbed. This includes open woods, grasslands, in dry sunny places, along roadways, in the cracks of sidewalks, alongside pastures, or even in your garden. I know Stephanie has some growing in her garden because I harvested some to infuse in oil on her windowsill during my last visit.

You can identify St. John’s Wort by holding the leaf up to the light to look for the small glands that look like holes. The flower has ten times more glands than the leaf or stem, which is why it is so often used in herbalism.

Harvesting St John’s Wort

Its prevalence means that planting it in your garden is unnecessary; you can very likely find wild plants with plenty of flowers to share.

I have harvested from late June into late August.

The best time to harvest is in the mid-day when the medicinal properties are at its height. Harvest the flower tops, leaf, and stem. The stems are quite stiff so best to use scissors.

Never harvest more than 1/3 of the plant.

St John’s Wort Benefits

Now that you know how to identify and harvest this fascinating plant, let’s talk about why you should do so. The benefits of St. John’s wort are well-worth your efforts—here are just a few.

St. John’s Wort for Depression and SAD

The chemical component of ‘hypericin’ is known to interfere with monoamine oxidase (MOA), which contributes to depression. Pharmaceutical products also act as MOA inhibitors; however, St. John’s Wort is slower-acting and has few side effects.

Here in the Pacific Northwest, we can have long cloudy winters with little sun so I use this daily on my face as my moisturizer which is very effective for SAD. Some people who are fair-skinned report that they are more sensitive to the sun when using St. John’s wort oil; however, the sun is not as strong in the winter so anyone applying it then should be fine.

Those with fair skin should be cautious about using St. John’s wort oil on their skin when the sun is strong.

Digestive and Nervous System Benefits

St John’s Wort is also used for the digestive and nervous system. It improves the absorption of nutrients and normalizes stomach acid levels which fluctuate as we age. Helpful for ulcers, heartburn and bloating.

It is also helpful with bedwetting, menstrual challenges, menopause, liver tension as it gently decongests and strengthens both liver and the gallbladder.

St. John’s Wort as a Pain Reliever

St. John’s Wort is said to be very helpful as a pain reliever and repairs skin tissue. I use it for my sciatica, applying the infused oil on my lower back and down my leg where the pain is.

St. John’s Wort Side Effects and Warnings

Please do not take St. John’s Wort with antidepressants without the supervision of an herbalist or medical practitioner. Like any herb, it is important that you research it and check with your health care professional before using it, as it might have any interactions with drug medications.

A research paper in 2000 was published, which raised a new concern. St John’s Wort extract was shown to improve liver function. Although this would normally be considered to be a good thing, this paper raised the concern that improved liver function might cause pharmaceutical drugs to be broken down more quickly and could mean that people who needed to have a drug active in their system 24 hours per day, could now, in theory, have a gap where the drug was not active.

This could potentially be a problem.

For example, if a woman was taking the contraceptive pill and St. John’s Wort, then there could now be a time during 24 hours when her pill would not be actively working in her body, and she could, in theory, become pregnant.

How to Use St. John’s Wort

There are three ways I’d recommend to use this helpful plant: an oil, as a tincture, and as a dream pillow.

How to Make St. John’s Wort Oil

Infusing fresh flowers and leaves into vegetable oil makes a soothing facial oil that has many uses. Only fresh flowers can be used for infusions, not dried plant material.

Infuse it into vegetable oil and place it in a sunny window to infuse in the sun for one month.

The infused oil will turn a beautiful red. Then, strain out the plant material, bottle it, and label it.

How to Use St. John’s Wort Oil

There are many ways you can use this oil. A few ideas include:
- as a facial oil
- for back pain
- sciatica
- neuralgia
- arthritic joints and arthritis
- help heal wounds
- heal surgical scars
- assist with bruises and sprains
Make a Tincture

You can also make it into an alcohol tincture for seasonal affective disorder, liver congestion, shingles, nervous exhaustion, menopausal moods, viral infections, and jet lag.

Alcohol tinctures are used to extract different chemical components that are alcohol soluble. Some folks are very precise in preparing weight and volume, but I prefer the simple folklore method of 1 part plant to 2 parts alcohol.

Make sure the plant material is completely covered, shake daily for four weeks, then strain out the plant and label your bottle with the date.

Tinctures can last up to 10 years.

Dose 1-4 ml 3x daily. I suggest noticing how you react to any type of stimulus as to the best dosage for your body type.

DIY Dream Pillow

Make a dream pillow with flowers and leaves and place it into a small cloth bag or a square piece of fabric and gather to tie up.

Place under your pillow for nightmares, bad dreams, and fear of the dark.

Final Thoughts About St. John’s Wort

Friends helping friends is a good motto and I am grateful to Stephanie Rose for inviting me to write for Garden Therapy. We met a few years ago and over time have been growing our friendship.

There is a lot of information and research on this bright little yellow flower that offers so much healing for us emotionally, mentally, spiritually, and physically. I am so grateful for her teachings and now we can harvest her medicine vs. spraying her with poisons that eventually poison us as we are all part of the same web.

Chief Seattle once shared….The earth does not belong to man; man belongs to the earth. All things are connected like the blood that unites us all. Man did not weave the web of life; he was merely a strand in it. Whatever he does to the web, he does to himself.

Blessings, dear friends,

All our relations,

~ Lori

More Herbal Guides to Enjoy:
3 Ways to Use St. John’s Wort

St John’s wort is a fascinating plant filled with helpful medicinal properties. Learn three different methods for utilizing it, and enjoy the benefits.

St. John’s Wort Oil

1 cup vegetable oil

1 handful St. John’s wort flowers must be fresh, not dried

St. John’s Wort Tincture

1 part St. Johns wort

2 parts alcohol

DIY Dream Pillow

1 cloth bag or square piece of fabric

1 handful of flowers and leaves

To Make the Oil

Pour the oil into a glass jar, and add the flowers.

Let it sit on a sunny windowsill.

Infuse for one month.

Strain the flowers out and re-bottle the oil.

To Make the Tincture

Combine the alcohol and plant, making sure that the plant material is completely covered.

Let it sit for four weeks, but make sure to shake it daily.

Strain out the plants and rebottle, then label.
About the Author

Lori Snyder is a Métis herbalist and educator sharing stories and teachings with children and adults in Vancouver, BC, for the last seven years. She has studied horticulture, aromatherapy, herbalism and permaculture and has a deep love for nature. Tsuu T’ina, Anishinaabe, Cree, Nakoda, and Nipissing Nations are mixed with her Scottish, French, and Celtic ancestry. She loves honouring the plants and their medicines which are growing all around us.

You can find Lori on her website, on Instagram, on Facebook and at the Artists in residence at Hastings Community Centre.

You can also take a fascinating online course with Swallowtail tours featuring Lori’s teachings, or join her at the Earthgleaners community guild where her teachings are being featured in July-Sept. If you are in (or will be in) the Vancouver area, you can even join her for an Airbnb experiences plant walk!
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Stephanie Rose

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August 2, 2024
Herbal Guide to Feverfew: THE Migraine Herb – Garden Therapy
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Feverfew is a pretty, cheery flower that has some excellent medicinal benefits. From preventing migraines to helping with menstrual problems, this herb is a wonderful addition to any herbal garden. Here’s how to grow, harvest, and use the feverfew plant.

Perhaps, like me, you were wandering around your garden one day when you saw a cheery mass of white-petaled, yellow-centred flowers standing about two feet high in the garden. Looking a little bit like chamomile, but as you get closer and give it a smell, yikes!

It doesn’t have that sweet apple smell that chamomile has but instead resembles something more like a dirty sock. It’s feverfew!

Feverfew is such a pretty flower and it always has a welcome home in my garden. I don’t plant it because, in these parts, it’s a wild medicinal plant that pops up easily each year without much thought.

It’s a good thing because feverfew isn’t just pretty; it has some wonderful properties. It’s most famous for being used as an ongoing treatment to reduce the severity and number of migraine attacks in some sufferers. But in addition, it also provides a calming relief to tension and arthritis.

There’s a lovely cultivar called white stars that has plenty of double white flowers on shorter seven-inch plants. This highly attractive feverfew is a great cut flower in arrangements, dries well for dried flower arrangements, and looks great in containers or at the front of the garden.

Let’s dive into feverfew!

Feverfew doesn’t have the best smell, but its beauty and herbal properties make up for it.

Lori’s Green Blessings

This article was reviewed by herbalist Lori Snyder. This is not to be used as personal medical advice; always consult your healthcare professional for individual concerns.

Here’s what Lori has to say about feverfew:

“Feverfew has so many medicinal benefits and is easy to grow. I like making alcohol tinctures as alcohol extracts chemical components that are not extracted with water.

According to Bartram’s Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine, prepare fresh leaves within 2 hours of harvesting, 1 part pulp to 5 parts (45% proof alcohol), and let sit for 7 days. Filter. Dose 5-20 drops every 2 hours for acute conditions and 3x daily for chronic conditions.

Note: Feverfew may inhibit the blood platelet activity that plays a role in clotting, affecting blood-thinning medication.”

Feverfew is best harvested right before or during flowering.

History of Feverfew

Throughout history, feverfew has been traditionally used to treat migraines, arthritis, and menstrual and labour pain. Today, feverfew can be found throughout Europe, Australia, and North America, but it was originally found in southeast Europe.

Since feverfew has had so many names throughout history, it can be hard to find it listed in older texts. One herb that is believed to be feverfew is parthenion. The name, derived from the Greek word for maidenly, was often associated as a women’s herb and was most frequently used to treat uterine problems. However, there are at least three herbs that were referred to as parthenion! Feverfew is likely one of them.

The herb parthenium is also suspected to be feverfew. As the story goes, it was once used to save the life of a slave who had fallen from the Parthenon, Athena’s famous temple, during its construction in the 5th century BC.

In the 1st century, Greeks began using the herb as an antipyretic, a medicine used to reduce fevers. During the 18th century, feverfew got its nickname as the medieval aspirin.

Although it did not arrive until the mid-19th century, it also had many uses in the Americas. The people in Costa Rica used the herb as a digestion aid, a cardiotonic to help the heart, and as an enema for worms. Costa Ricans and Mexicans were both known to use the herb to help regulate menstruation. Feverfew has long been a powerful aid for women!

Cut feverfew for an easy garden-style flower arrangement.

Feverfew Benefits

While its name and history may suggest it is a fever relief, it actually is not very effective in reducing fevers. That being said, feverfew benefits are numerous. Here are a few ways to use this herbal remedy.

Feverfew for Migraines

Ever since the 1970’s, feverfew has been a popular choice for migraines and headaches. Studies show that not only does feverfew reduce the severity of migraines, but it also helps to reduce the frequency when taken regularly. It also can help to remove nausea that is associated with migraines.

However, it is best used as a prevention tool rather than as an on-the-spot cure for headaches.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

The ability to help migraines comes from its anti-inflammatory properties. This means it has also been used to help the diaphragm, assisting with issues such as:
- asthma
- cough
- phlegm
- chest congestion
- pain associated with arthritis
- general pain relief.
Feverfew Benefits for Menstrual Issues

As its history suggests, feverfew is also extremely beneficial for menstrual issues. It can help to regulate a cycle, helping with deficiency, scanty periods, and delays, as well as clots and excess. It can also be used to help relieve menstrual pain and spasms.

Make a feverfew tincture by letting feverfew sit in alcohol for 7 days.

How to Grow Feverfew

Feverfew (Tannacetum parthenium) belongs to the daisy family Asteraceae. It is sometimes called ‘feverfew’ because of its feathery leaves. Keeping consistent with its history, it has many other names like featherfoil, mid-summer daisy, flirtwort, or wild chamomile. It commonly grows along roadsides and in gardens and is often confused for German chamomile.

Botanical name: Tanacetum parthenium

Family name: Asteraceae

USDA Zone: 5 to 9

Height: 18 to 24 inches

Spacing: 15 to 18 inches

Light: Full sun

Water: Average water needs: water regularly and do not overwater.

Warnings: May be a noxious weed or invasive in some areas.

Feverfew is a perennial and attractive landscape flower. It has a strong, herbaceous aroma and white flowers with yellow centers. It is best to start this plant in late winter and plant early spring. Set 15 to 18 inches apart in all directions.

Feverfew is often mistaken as chamomile. But the smell and the leaves are the best giveaway.

Feverfew Companion Planting

Because it repels bugs, it grows well alongside mint and other tea plants and in beds where bugs are not wanted. This insect repellent ability makes it a great option for growing near doorways.

However, you want to be careful about what plants are growing nearby. Feverfew will repel bees and butterflies which may be needed as a pollinator for some of your plants.

How to Maintain the Plant

For maintenance, consider deadheading the spent blooms. This will encourage more blossoms and will prevent excessive self-seeding.

Six-month-old, well-rooted plants may tolerate frost well and winter temperatures to -20F (-29C). Most plants die in their second or third summer after heavy blooming. In early spring, after plants emerge from winter, mulch with rich compost.

This feverfew has some aphid damage, but it is pretty hardy to pests.

How to Harvest, Dry & Store Feverfew

While all parts of the plant can be used in medicine, the leaves are most commonly used in commercial products. Like most herbs, fresh is always better. However, I know we can’t always have fresh herbs at our disposal so it is important to properly dry and store our herbs for the colder seasons.

It is best to harvest feverfew right before flowering or during flowering. The night before you intend to harvest, gently hose down the flowers. This will help clean the plants, particularly if they have attracted aphids. Gather mid-morning when the flowers are still full, but there is still an abundance of greenery. Cut no more than ⅓ of the plant so it doesn’t die.

Thoroughly wash the feverfew again, then tie in a bundle and hang to dry in a warm, dark area. Or, layout on a dehydrator tray to dry until crispy. To store your feverfew, put in in an airtight container in a dark room out of direct sunlight.

Wait two weeks until the plant is completely dry before storing it in an airtight container.

Feverfew Recipes

Feverfew has a variety of properties that make it a great addition to your herbal remedy cabinet. Whether combined with other herbs for headache management or using it alone to support the body, it is an effective herb.

There are some precautions that go along with feverfew. Some herbalists have varying opinions, however, it is best to use caution. Consult with your primary care provider and experienced herbalist before using feverfew to make sure it’s a good fit for you.

That being said, there are a number of ways to enjoy the benefits of feverfew, and none are complicated. Rosemary Gladstar suggests, “Some people find that eating a fresh leaf or two directly from the garden helps to prevent migraines.”

That quote, plus the advice that it is most effective when taken over one to three months for a preventative measure, comes from Rosemary Gladstar’s Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health. Rosemary also recommends combining feverfew with lavender and other nervine herbs. Read more about lavender here.

See the recipe card at the bottom of the post to learn how to make a headache tea and a bruised skin compass with harvested feverfew plant.

Suffer from headaches? Make this feverfew tea.

FAQ About Using Feverfew

What is the common name for feverfew?

Feverfew may also be referred to as featherfoil, mid-summer daisy, flirtwort, and wild chamomile.

Are chamomile and feverfew the same thing?

No, but they do look similar. The best way to tell the difference is by looking at the leaves. Chamomile has feathery, fluffy leaves. Meanwhile, feverfew leaves are wider and look more like parsley.

Another easy identifier is smell. Chamomile blossoms smell like apples while feverfew has an unpleasant scent that is more herby and almost smells like a dirty sock.

Can I take feverfew daily?

Yes! Most who take it for headache relief do so daily, either as a tincture or a tea. Feverfew works best at preventing headaches rather than stopping them. As a tincture, the recommended dosage is 2-4 ml at 1:4 strength.

Feverfew is considered a medium-strength herb, and long-term use in high dosages should be avoided.

More Herbal Guides for Common Garden Plants
Feverfew Headache Tea + Bruised Skin Compress

Feverfew benefits are far and wide. Here’s how to use this plant to prevent migraine headaches, as well as treat bruised skin.

Bruised Skin Compress Supplies

How to Make the Headache Tea with Feverfew*

Add herbs to a cup.

Pour boiling water over the herbs, then cover with a saucer.

Steep for 15 minutes, then strain out the herbs.

Add honey to taste. The tea may be slightly bitter.

How to Make a Compress for Bruised Skin

Add dried feverfew to a cup.

Pour boiling water over the herbs, then cover with a saucer to retain the essential oils.

Steep for 25 minutes, then strain herbs and allow the tea to cool.

Soak your cloth in cooled tea. Then apply to the bruised area to facilitate healing. Refresh as needed.

*Do not consume if you are pregnant, nursing, or in conjunction with blood-thinning medications. Do not give to children under 2 years of age
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Stephanie Rose

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July 23, 2024
The Art of Tea Blending: Herbal Tea Blends Tips and Recipes – Garden Therapy
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Have you ever tried tea blending? Making your own herbal tea blends is an excellent but gentle way to start experimenting with herbs’ properties. Customize a blend to suit your taste buds and needs, or try out one of my tea blend recipes.

My friends know that I’m most at peace when I have a cup of tea in my hands. I’ve never been much of a coffee drinker, preferring my morning matcha and my herbal teas. And in the afternoon, you’ll find me drinking some iced hibiscus tea.

I’m a tea addict, and I’m very much okay with it.

There’s always a tea for the different times of the day. With the right selection of herbs, you can use tea as a gentle way to control your moods and energy levels. That’s the beauty of herbal tea blending!

If you’re new to making tea mixtures, they’re a fun and gentle way to explore herbs. You can try your hand at making your blends or try a tea from my tea blends list below.

Here’s what we’ll be covering today!

Make a one-size serving first to ensure you like the tea, and it sits well with you.

Dip Your Toes in Drinking Herbal Tea

Many moons ago, I did a herbal tea training with a herbalist, and I want to share one of the biggest tips they gave to the class: start with one herb.

Take the time to really sit with the first herb you want to try. This can be something you already know you like the flavour of, you have in large supply, or it has desirable properties.

Once you’ve chosen your tea, make a big jar of it. Take one big 1-litre Mason jar and pack it about a third full with your herb of choice. This is going to create a very, very strong tea.

Add the hot water, let it steep, and then strain it. Then, drink your strong tea throughout the day.

For a couple of days, you might drink solely motherwort tea. And one another, oat straw tea. But the idea here is that you’re getting a direct feeling of what each of these herbal teas does and how it affects your body.

When you’re reading herbal books and guides on the different herbs, you choose the ones that work for you and really test them out. It’s an ongoing learning process of getting to know the herbs and how your body reacts to them.

Try making a simple sun tea while you’re outside in the garden.

The Basics of Tea Blending

From a more fun standpoint, you can start making tea blends. It’s one of my favourite things to do since I have at least a couple of cups a day. But if you want to make your own blends, training yourself in herbal tea first is a good idea.

At the same time, teas are very gentle. If you mix several different herbs and some don’t resonate for you, you likely won’t have a strong negative reaction.

Most of them should be tolerable unless you have allergies. So, of course, be mindful of your individual aversions, sensitivities, and allergies to different plants.

But if you’re looking at them from a medical standpoint, you might find that different herbs work better for you. Say you’re making a sleepy tea blend like the one below. You may find that you don’t need chamomile but that the rose, hops, and peppermint actually do all the work for you.

Tea blends are a safe way to have fun with herbs and enjoy some really delicious and beautiful tea blends. I also love making custom herbal tea blends as gifts. Often, I make a little note to let them know what the tea is best for.

For instance, you could add wild rose petals or little rose petals from the garden for a romantic partner. Or if you’re giving it to someone who is really active, you can add hibiscus flowers.

Hibiscus tea has a very beautiful, natural red colouring.

My Personal Go-To Tea Mixing Base

I drink A LOT of tea, most of which is actually iced tea. When I’m active, I like to make hibiscus iced tea to keep me hydrated. And when I’m out in the garden, taking a sip feels like I’m instantly revitalizing my body.

I will make one of the blends below and then make a tea mixture that is 1 part the blend, 1 part hibiscus flowers, and 1 part rose hips.

This creates a delicious herbal iced tea blend for the summertime. So, you can try tea blending to make a warm drink when you feel like cozying up, but also in the summer to hydrate and energize you.

Determining Herbal Tea Blend Ratios

Finding the right ratio takes time and a few experiments before you find one you like. Start by making just enough for one cup of tea and noting the ratios you made. Next time, try a different ratio. Keep going until you’ve found one that resonates most with you.

In general, you want…
- 3 parts of your base ingredient
- 1-2 parts of your supporting ingredients
- ¼-1 part of your accent ingredients
Always use the same measuring scoop/set for each part so you get accurate ratios.

Once you feel confident about your ratios and ingredients, you can make a big batch of your tea blend and store it in a Mason jar.

5 of My Favourite Herbal Tea Blend Recipes

If you’re new to tea blending, take inspiration from my list of teas. I rely heavily on these herbal tea blends, from when I have an upset stomach to when I want a boost of energy.

For more of my favourite herbs to grow for a tea garden, check out this post.

Nourishing Vitamin and Mineral Tea

This tea is like taking a multivitamin; it’s full of vitamins and minerals that can boost your meals by drinking as a warm tea. You can also add it as a third of your iced tea blends.

Ingredients
- 3 parts hibiscus: high in Vitamin C and aids in digestion. Has a fruity and tart taste. Make sure you get the edible variety of hibiscus!
- 2 parts nettle: nettle is a supergreen that is high in minerals and plant protein. One of the richest sources of minerals from edible plants. Has a salty, umami taste.
- 1 part alfalfa: incredibly high in important vitamins and minerals. Alfalfa also mimics the chemical and mineral makeup in hemoglobin. Used in TCM for urinary and digestive disorders.
- 1 part oat straw: the stem of the oat plant when it is still green. Nourishing herb full of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
- 1 part chickweed: nutrient-rich herb. Clears lymphatic congestion and helps to clear water through the kidneys. Very fibrous and a weight loss folk remedy.
- 1 part orange peel: there are some bitter herbs on this list, so orange peel provides some nice citrusy flavour.
Feel free to also add stevia to this tea if all the green flavour is overpowering.

Peaceful Heart Tea

This tea helps to calm your heart and encourage a peaceful mind. It’s very flavourful, sweet, and aromatic. It also makes for a great gift for somebody who’s mending a broken heart.

Ingredients
- 3 parts chamomile: a powerful anti-inflammatory herb and a natural nervine to ease anxiety and tension.
- 2 parts passionflower: contains nerve-relaxing flavonoids to help calm the nerves and reduce anxiety.
- 2 parts rose hips: anti-inflammatory with a tart and zesty taste, high in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- 1 part cinnamon bark: distinct sweet flavour and warming effect. Antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
- 1 part lavender: notable floral taste, as well as a mild sedative effect. Helps to alleviate stress and anxiety by relaxing the mind.
- 1 part rose: notable floral taste. Full of Vitamin C to help boost immunity. Eases menstrual cramps.
- 1 part mint: delicious and comforting flavour. It can help soothe a sore throat.
- ½ part stevia: for a hint of natural sweetness.
Stevia leaves are used as a garnish for this iced tea as well as a natural sweetener.

Tummy Tea

If you’re trying to soothe the tummy, tea blending can be risky business if you haven’t explored the herbs first. This herbal tea blend helps to cool and chill. Use it when you have an upset stomach or are experiencing bloating. It helps to improve digestion.

Ingredients
- 3 parts chamomile: anti-inflammatory herb used to decrease tension and ease anxiety.
- 2 parts calendula: another natural anti-inflammatory used for upset stomachs and to improve digestion.
- 1 part rosehip: high in vitamins and minerals. It has natural pectin, which is helpful for gut health and removing toxins from the body.
- 1 part peppermint: helps to reduce uncomfortable bloating and stomach pain caused by gas.
- 1 part fennel: helps to aid in digestion as well as menstrual cramps. Has a notable bitter, licorice taste.
- ½ part ginger: sweet and spicy taste. Warming quality helps to stimulate circulation and energy, which supports digestion and bile secretion. Also acts as an anti-spasmodic to alleviate nausea and morning sickness.
You can also use fresh herbs to make your tea. Bruise the leaves first with a mortar and pestle.

Energy Tea

Mixing herbs to a nice green tea can help build energy that tapers off slowly, as opposed to the caffeine in coffee, which spikes quickly and then drops. The caffeine in green tea is more of a gentle rise, and when supported by other herbs, it can be really energetic.

Ingredients
- 3 parts green tea: contains caffeine, theophylline, and theobromine, which are all natural stimulants.
- 2 parts spearmint: notable minty flavour, known to improve alertness and memory recall. Good for a boost of mental or physical energy.
- 2 parts nettle: has a high nutritional content, which can help boost energy and maintain blood sugar levels.
- 1 part ashwagandha (optional for extra energy): used to help the body cope with stress. It’s actually quite a calming root and works great to soothe and strengthen the nervous system. It’s known to restore strength and vitality, and can enhance athletic performance.
- 1 part ginseng (optional for extra energy): natural adaptogen, that boosts the body’s resistance to physical and emotional stress. It’s a mild stimulant, known for improving mental and physical capacities in moments of tiredness.
Most herbal teas will not become bitter if steeped for too long, so you can steep them for 15-30 minutes for lots of flavour.

Sleep Tea

I really love this sleepy tea blend! It takes the same idea of my dream pillow and puts it in a tea form. I don’t drink much hot water and tea before I go to bed, so I tend to sit and sip this a few hours before sleep and just after dinner in a small amount.

Ingredients
- 4 parts hops: contains methyl butanol, a natural chemical that induces sleep.
- 1 part chamomile: anti-inflammatory herb known for promoting relaxation and easing anxiety.
- 1 part catnip: the taste is similar to mint but earthier with slight citrus notes. Helps to promote relaxation.
- 1 part rose hip: high in Vitamin C to help boost our immune system and stimulate white blood cell production.
- 1 part raspberry leaf: rich in vitamins and minerals, a rich source of calcium and iron, and helpful in relieving women’s issues. It has an astringent taste similar to black tea.
- ½ part stevia: hops can be quite bitter, so this adds some natural sweetness.
When using flowering herbs for tea, wait until the flowers are fully formed and then harvest.

More Ways to Enjoy Herbal Tea
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Stephanie Rose

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March 25, 2024