If you have followed my blog and page for sometime you would see that I have a love and passion for Gardening and plant medicine. The other day I decided to take an inventory of the herbs I have actively growing in my small backyard garden and I was astounded to find that I had nearly 50 Medicinal and Culinary Herbs growing – most of which are perennial and come back every season.

In that moment I was so proud of what I had built for myself and for whomever may occupy the space I live in today as it is healing, life giving and provides so many healing gifts. I thought it would be fun to share a list of everything I have actively growing. The Pictures are my own and I did my best to reference my searches in this table as best I could so that you could read more

I will be hosting a small take a learn class in the coming weeks where friends and friends of friends can visit for a tour of my plants and to possibly leave with a plant or two. I will also have some teas available for purchase. I am almost done filling in this table and wanted to publish the draft now.

Enjoy – I will update the remainder soon!

Sarah

Herb	Spiritual Use	Medicinal Use	Interesting Facts
Jiaogulan		high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and improving heart function It is also used for strengthening the immune system, increasing stamina and endurance, increasing resistance to environmental stress (as an “adaptogen”), improving memory, and preventing hair loss	Jiaogulan prevents damage to the arterial lining in two ways. First, it neutralizes the oxidative damage to the arteries caused by free radicals and cholesterol through its powerful antioxidant effects26, 27, 29 (see Antioxidant section). The second way Gynostemma prevents endothelial damage is through its ability to regulate blood pressure, either lowering it 63, 65 or elevating it 63 depending on the need.
Ginko Biloba	A symbol of longevity (the tree can live for a thousand years) and of a more profound endurance .	Enhances blood circulation. Mood Stabilizer. PMS Relief. Memory and concentration booster. Supports overall healthy brain function. Anxiety and stress management. Promotes healthy aging. Antioxidant properties.	It is the only tree on the planet that has survived basically unchanged since the dinosaur age. It’s not too much of a stretch to look at the leaf shape and see one half of the hemisphere of the human brain.
St John’s Wort	Known by some as St. Joan’s Wort, is a symbol of the Midsummer Solstice in Europe, the UK, and, more recently, North America. One ritual is throwing the plant into the fire, and if one desires, leaping over the flames to aid in cleansing the body of evil spirits	A plant that grows in the wild it is used to reduce depression and menopausal symptoms. When applied to the skin it is a very effective healer of wounds.	May be used for nerve pain (neuralgia), anxiety, and tension. It may also aid in weakness, stress, irritability, and sleeping
Eucalyptus	The eucalyptus is a holy tree for the Aboriginals. For them it represents the division of underworld, Earth and heaven. The eucalyptus leaf also has a purifying effect, as negative energy disappears in the place where you burn a eucalyptus leaf.	May help decrease pain, promote relaxation, and relieve cold symptoms. Many over-the-counter products also use eucalyptus extract to freshen your breath, soothe irritated skin, and repel insects	The name Eucalyptus, meaning “well-concealed” comes from the Greek words eu “well” and kaluptos “conceal”.  This was inspired by the protective cap that covers the sensitive male stamens until they are ready to burst forth into beautiful, tassel-like flowers.
Lemon Eucalyptus	Eucalyptus is said to have a purifying, cleansing effect, similar to sage, that clears away any negative energy in the space it’s burned in.	Strengthens the immune system, prevents respiratory infections, repels disease-bearing insects, relieves pain, soothes inflammation, heals wounds, improves digestive health, and treats fungal infections	Make an infusion of leaves of Eucalyptus, Mint, and Hyssop for washing floors and doorsteps. Hyssop cleanses evil, Eucalyptus heals the past, and Mint invites good luck.
Clary Sage	In magical traditions, the association of clary sage with vision leads to its use as aid for meditation or visionary states. It is said to help enhance the ability to dream and remember dreams, and can also be used in love spells	Circulate and strengthen qi energy that has become “stuck.” Qi is considered the life force that flows through our bodies and sustains our physical being. Great for upset stomach and other digestive disorders, kidney diseases, menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea), symptoms of menopause, anxiety, stress.	Can be used as an anti-bacterial agent, for wounds, toothache and cleaning the home. Clary sage essential oil can be used for panic attacks, as an anti-inflammatory and to help with skin problems
Valarian	The Valerian flower has carried the symbolic meaning of strength, which likely comes from the Latin name. Its white and pale pink flowers are, good additions to bouquets symbolizing loyalty (white) and friendship or appreciation (pink). Valerian also symbolizes readiness or awareness.	This herb is often referred to as “nature’s Valium,” and people have used it since the Middle Ages to treat sleep disorders such as insomnia. Valerian may help you relax and may have benefits for people who experience anxiety and other symptoms.	The name comes from the Latin word valere which means to be strong and healthy, and it is also known as “all-heal.”  It is believed to be able to turn any bad situation into a good one.  It is a powerful sedative, and can be used to relieve stress, anxiety, and insomnia.
Yarrow	Yarrow is a beautiful flower that shares twin meanings of healing and love. In the language of flowers, Yarrow’s symbolic meaning is traditionally associated with healing which originates from Ancient Greek mythology. The Yarrow plant is also used for divination in Chinese culture	Yarrow can also be taken as a tea to help fight colds and fevers, and to help detoxify the body. It can be chewed fresh or dry to relieve toothache and can be infused in oil or extracted in alcohol to make solutions that can be rubbed on the body to relieve bruises, burns, rashes and bug bites	The yarrow plant gets its name from the Greek hero Achilles, who used the plant, to treat his wounds.
Skullcap	In traditional Chinese medicine is commonly utilized to “clear away the heat-evil and expel superficial evils“.	American skullcap has significant antioxidant effects, and may help protect against neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, anxiety, and depression. There’s even some evidence to suggest that American skullcap may inhibit food allergic response.	Has been used for more than 200 years as a mild relaxant and as a therapy for anxiety, nervous tension, and convulsions
Ashwagandha	By definition, ashwa means horse. Practitioners use this herb as a general tonic to boost energy and reduce stress and anxiety.	Ashwagandha, has often been referred to as the Elixir of Life, as it is believed to help balance your Chi and align your chakra energy. And because of its aphrodisiac properties, it is also often used in powerful rituals or spells having to do with sex magic, including Tantra	In Sanskrit, literally means ‘smell of the horse’. It is associated with both a unique smell and an ability to enhance strength.
Motherwort	Motherwort energies promote inner trust and confidence that the ultimate outcome will be best for all involved in the fullness of time.	Motherwort is used for heart conditions, including heart failure, irregular heartbeat, fast heartbeat, and heart symptoms due to anxiety.	Motherwort dates as far back as the early Greeks, who gave motherwort to pregnant women suffering from anxiety, which is how the herb got its name.
Passionflower	The flower’s five petals and five petallike sepals represented the 10 apostles who remained faithful to Jesus throughout the Passion. The circle of hairlike rays above the petals suggested the crown of thorns that Jesus wore on the day of His death.	Passion flower (passiflora incarnata) is an herbal supplement used historically in treating anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and hysteria. Can be used to help with sleep problems (insomnia), anxiety, adjustment disorder, indigestion, pain, fibromyalgia, and muscle cramps.	Vines can reach 30 feet in height and 5 feet in width. Passiflora develops evergreen, glossy, 3-, 7- or 9-lobed leaves. Curled tendrils can be seen at the base of each leaf. Passiflora develops large, showy flowers that can reach 3 to 8 inches in diameter.
Elderberry	It is a particularly good omen if an Elder grows near a dwelling, as the tree’s proximity to the home protects its inhabitants.	Tames inflammation, lessens stress, and helps protect your heart. Elderberry is most commonly used as a cough syrup. Research suggests elderberry juice syrup may help prevent and treat upper respiratory symptoms of colds and flu.	Elderberry, elder, European elder, black elder, common elder, elder bush, pipe tree, bore tree, and “Medicine Chest of the People.”  Botanical name comes from the Greek word “sambuke” meaning “a musical pipe” in reference to the hollowed shoots which are used to make pipes
Tarragon	It is known as a protective and calming herb and is used in kitchen magic to put guests at ease and make them feel welcome.	Tarragon has many impressive health benefits, including the potential to reduce blood sugar, inflammation and pain, while improving sleep, appetite and heart health.	“tarragon” originates from Persian word “turkhum” which means “little dragon”. Name refers to intense flavor of this plant and its root system that has snake-like shape. Tarragon is also known as “dragon wort” today. Tarragon was used in treatment of scurvy (disorder induced by vitamin C deficiency) in the past.
Bay Leaf	One of my favorite ways to use Bay leaves is by writing down something you want to manifest or get rid of, then burn the leaf in a spiritual ceremony – this is wonderful to do during a new moon.	Bay leaf is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin B6, and vitamin C. These vitamins are all known to support a healthy immune system. Bay leaf tea can help ease bouts of upset stomach. The tea is also very aromatic, which can help relieve sinus pressure or stuffy nose	Bay laurel symbolizes victory and triumph. In the past heroes were given a wreath made of laurel leaves. Titles such as baccalaureate and poet laureate are derived from the bay laurel’s symbolism. ‘To rest on one’s laurels’ means to enjoy the luxury of doing nothing.
Begotten Sage	It had a strong reputation for its healing properties during the middle ages, and was even used to help prevent the plague. Current research indicates that sage may be able to improve brain function and memory, especially in people with Alzheimer’s disease.	Can be used to treat Obesity, Diabetes, Depression, Dementia, Lupus, Autism, Heart Disease, and Cancer. Known for its benefits of lowering cholesterol, enhancing memory, improving inflammatory conditions, and reducing hot flashes.	There are over 900 varieties of Sage. Contains Vitamins A and C, along with several other antioxidants which help reduce the risk of serious health conditions like cancer. It’s also rich in vitamin K, which aids the body in clotting blood. Since sage is usually taken in small amounts, it provides a high amount of nutrition without a lot of calories
White Sage	Is burned for meditation, smudging and cleansing of spirit and dwelling. In some beliefs, white sage smoke is believed to provide a barrier that prevents negative spirits from entering the room in which the ceremony is being held	White prairie sage (Artemisia ludoviciana) is both antimicrobial and antibacterial . White sage (Salvia apiana) is also antimicrobial. And both have been shown to repel insects. Beliefs that burning sage clears out spiritual impurities, pathogens, and even insects have been fundamental to the practice of smudging.	Likes low-nutrient conditions. Full Sun. No Shade.
Golden Sage	In Celtic lore, sage represented wisdom and immortality. Sage became a popular symbol of wisdom, believed to improve memory and grant wisdom. The very word sage means a wise man.	Golden Sage is a most attractive plant, with gold and green variegated foliage, and makes a very decorative addition to the herb garden. Occasionally in Summer it produces pale purple-blue flowers. It has a milder flavour than common Sage but can be used in all the same ways, and works particularly well in herb vinegars.	All sages are deer resistant.
Rosemary	In many cultures, rosemary is viewed as a symbol of love, fidelity, and longevity. Many people use rosemary at the wedding to bless the couple and wish them a long and healthy life. Couples often exchange rosemary sprigs to promise each other honesty, loyalty, and faithfulness.	Rosemary is a rich source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which are thought to help boost the immune system and improve blood circulation. Laboratory studies have shown rosemary to be rich in antioxidants, which play an important role in neutralizing harmful particles called free radicals.	In Ancient times, Rosemary was believed to strengthen the memory; in literature and folklore it is an emblem of remembrance and fidelity. Rosemary is slightly stimulating. In traditional medicine it was a popular aromatic constituent of tonics and liniments.
Lavender	Represents purity, silence, devotion, serenity, grace, and calmness. Purple is the color of royalty and speaks of elegance, refinement, and luxury, too. The color is also associated with the crown chakra, which is the energy center associated with higher purpose and spiritual connectivity.	Lavandula is a genus of 47 known species of flowering plants in the mint family. In addition to helping with digestive problems, lavender is used to help relieve pain from headaches, sprains, toothaches, and sores. Some studies suggest lavender can improve your body’s melatonin levels, supporting a better night’s rest	Over 2500 years ago, lavender was used in ancient Egypt during the mummification process. Back in the Elizabethan times, when baths weren’t common practice, lavender was used to perfume clothes and bed linen. The scent of lavender deters mice, flies, mosquitoes and other pests from the area
Chamomile	Chamomile flowers carry the symbolic meaning of rest, peace, poise, calmness. The flower is also a sign of renewal and rebirth in many cultures due to its ability to bloom for long periods and resist wear from foot traffic	Has been used as a traditional medicine for thousands of years to calm anxiety and settle stomachs.	One of the oldest of all herbs, dating back to ancient Egyptians. It is both a pretty flower and an ancient healer. This delicate flower is dried and drank as tea – or used as an extract topically. and indigestion.
Red Root Sage	Red sage, otherwise known as danshen, is a key herb in traditional Chinese medicine.  Used to treat a wide range of complaints, ranging from cardiovascular issues to renal failure, the herb remains in common use as a complementary remedy	In Traditional Chinese Medicine, red sage has been used for thousands of years for its heart-boosting, antioxidant properties. Researchers have described red sage as a potential “red light” to prevent the development of heart disease. Like clary sage, red sage is known to promote blood circulation and support cardiovascular health. It’s also valued for its neuroprotective properties.	It’s Latin name salvia, meaning “health”, “salvation” or “to save”, refers to the plant’s powerful healing properties. The specific epithet miltiorrhiza means “red juice extracted from a root”. It is used in many parts of the world to treat various conditions due to their excellent medicinal values. It is rich sources of tanshinone I, tanshinone II, miltirone and salvianolic acid and a wide range of chemical compounds. The root and rhizome of this plant have been used as traditional Chinese medicines for more than 2 500 years.
Elecampane	It is derived from the Greek inaein, meaning ‘to clean’ – as in its medicinal effects. The species helenium is also a plant genus name and is thought to have been named by Linnaeus for Helen of Troy. The author name for the plant classification, from 1753 – ‘L.’ is for Carl Linnaeus (1707-1778), Swedish botanist and the developer of the binomial nomenclature of modern taxonomy.	Elecampane is a soothing herb that has been used to treat coughs associated with bronchitis, asthma, and whooping cough. Elecampane is a demulcent (soothing herb) that has been used to treat coughs associated with bronchitis, asthma , and whooping cough.	Other common names for elecampane are elfwort, elfdock, scabwort, horseheal, and yellow starwort.
Arnica	Arnica flower essence brings the warmth of light of our spiritual presence to revivify traumatized regions of body and psyche	Arnica is believed to help relieve pain associated with arthritis and muscle soreness. It is also used to treat post-surgical swelling.	Arnica” originated from the Greek word for lambskin referring to the hairy leaves and stems.
Comfrey	Is associated with Saturn and water and is sacred to Hecate. Comfrey is used in protective magic for the traveler and to protect against theft	Comfrey roots and leaves contain allantoin, a substance that helps new skin cells grow, along with other substances that reduce inflammation and keep skin healthy. With its deep taproot and large root system, comfrey pulls its nutrients from way down in the subsoil, where most other plants can’t reach. Comfrey is high in just about every nutrient a plant needs, including the big three, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, and many trace elements.	Is sometimes used on the skin to treat wounds and reduce inflammation from sprains and broken bones. Comfrey roots and leaves contain allantoin, a substance that helps new skin cells grow, along with other substances that reduce inflammation and keep skin healthy. It is highly mucilaginous
Fennel	Fennel is said to have symbolized flattery and adultery.	Fennel has been shown to help with digestion by reducing inflammation in the bowels and decreasing bacteria that cause gassiness.	Fennel is super high in dietary fiber, covering more than 25 percent of your daily value, as well as potassium, which is crucial in maintaining low blood pressure.
Celery	One plant encyclopedia calls it “a double symbolism of death and victory,” one that reverberated throughout the ages. Celery and parsley, both in the Apiaceae family, were often mistaken for each other in ancient writings, to the point of interchangeability.	Celery contains a plant compound called apigenin, which plays a role in traditional Chinese medicine as an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral.	Cultivation of celery is believed to have started 3000 years ago in the Mediterranean region. Celery was first used as a food during the 16th century in Italy.
Thyme	In the European Middle Ages, the herb was placed beneath pillows to aid sleep and ward off nightmares. In this period, women also often gave knights and warriors gifts that included thyme leaves, as it was believed to bring courage to the bearer.	Thyme contains a variety of minerals and vitamins that promote good health. Thyme is full of vitamin C for immune support, potassium for healthy cells, and manganese for bone development and blood clotting. Contains chemicals that might help bacterial and fungal infections. It also might help relieve coughing and have antioxidant effects.	There are around 350 species of thyme that are native to Europe, Asia and Africa.
Mexican Tarragon	Even in modern day Mexico, the tradition persists in the Fiesta Del Pericon, where the herb continues to be burned at alters as an offering to St. Michael – in a symbolic attempt to ward off evil spirits.	Tarragon has many impressive health benefits, including the potential to reduce blood sugar, inflammation and pain, while improving sleep, appetite and heart health. The leaves and whole plant are digestive, diuretic, febrifuge, hypotensive, narcotic, sedative and stimulant. Use of the plant depresses the central nervous	The scent given off by burning Mexican Tarragon leaves is particularly unpleasant to mosquitoes and this explains its use as an incense to repel these annoying insects.
Bee Balm	Bee Balm flowers have traditionally carried the symbolic meaning of sympathy, clarity of thought, prosperity, and protection.	Bee balm can help with digestive issues, bloating, sore throats, and nausea. Bee balm is a natural antiseptic and applied topically, can help with bee stings, rashes, and minor wounds.	Native Americans infused the Monarda plant in tea to treat lung ailments like colds and flu and used it topically as an antiseptic for wounds and to reduce the swelling of bee stings — hence, its common name: bee balm.
Tulsi Basil	As Tulsi traveled west along the early trade routes from Asia to Europe, it became known to Christians as “sacred” or “holy” basil and was used in rituals. Across cultures, Tulsi was a symbol of purity and used for a range of physical, mental and spiritual purposes.	Holy basil has been shown to boost your body’s health in a variety of ways. It can help protect against infection, lower your blood sugar, lower your cholesterol, ease joint pain, and protect your stomach.	Tulsi contains Vitamin C and other anti-oxidants such as eugenol which protects the heart from harmful effects of free radicals. – Warm tulsi juice gets rid of stomach worms. – Tulsi fights with bad breath, pyorrhoea and cavities and other dental problems. – Tulsi was traditionally used as a cure for night blindness.
Curry	Like Bay Leaf, Curry is often used in Indian Culture and Ayurvedic Medicine to ward of Negativity. In addition, it is are considered to have anti-diabetic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, and hepatoprotective (capability to protect the liver from damage)	Curry helps in the treatment of dysentery, diarrhea, diabetes, morning sickness. Often, curry leaves help flush out toxins and the fat content of the body.	Curry belongs to the citrus family
Parsley	The magickal properties of parsley include protection, purification, lust, love and communication with spirits among others.	Its medicinal benefits are varied and include being full of antioxidants, helping with skin irritations and aiding digestion.	The scientific name of parsley is Petroselinum crispum, and it is one of two species in the Petroselinum genus, from the family Apiaceae, the family of carrots and celery.
Cilantro	The Ancient Chinese believed that consuming coriander would lead to immortality 🙂	Cilantro has been proven to have antifungal, antiseptic, antioxidant, disinfectant and antibacterial properties. It can help reduce swelling caused by arthritis and rheumatic diseases because of its polyphenol content. Cilantro helps dissolve cholesterol build up in the arteries, protecting you from heart disease	Cilantro is also known as coriander or Chinese parsley.
Calendula	Calendula has been a symbol of sunshine and fire for many centuries. In India, calendula flowers were traditionally included in wedding bouquets and decorations to symbolize passion and creativity or fertility for the new couple.	The herb’s antifungal and antimicrobial properties help prevent infection and heal injuries to body tissues. Calendula is also known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant components, which might help to fight cancer, protect against heart disease, and ease muscle fatigue.	The petals are edible!
Chives	Often used in the Middle Ages to lift the spirits of those who were feeling depressed.	Chives are extremely rich in flavonoid antioxidants, which contribute to most of the benefits. These antioxidants help fight cancer, improve heart health, and can even fight inflammation. They also detoxify the body and boost skin health. And the fiber in them can help ease the digestive process.	Chives can facilitate pollination of other plants in the garden due to its ability to attract bees.
Spearmint	is used for purification, to remove negative energy, to heal and to protect prosperity	The most important health benefits of spearmint include its ability to improve digestion, boost respiratory health, optimize hormonal levels	The word mint comes from Minthe, a Greek nymph who was changed into the plant mint by Persephone
Oregano	The name oregano comes from the Greek words Oros, meaning ‘Mountain’, and Ganos, meaning ‘Joy’.	Fresh oregano is a great antibacterial agent. It has phytonutrients (thymol and carvacrol), which fight infections such as staph. It’s loaded with antioxidants that help prevent cell damage, and it’s an excellent source of fiber, vitamin K, manganese, iron, vitamin E, tryptophan and calcium	Due to its strong connection with the Goddess Aphrodite, oregano was commonly used in Greek and Pagan wedding ceremonies, (either woven into a head wreath or a rope during Pagan handfasting ceremonies) to encourage long-lasting love in a relationship. If an oregano plant was seen growing on a grave, it was believed to show that the person was enjoying the afterlife.
Ginger
Dill
Blood Red Sorel
Marigold
Echniecea
Sunchokes
Pineapple Sage
Lemon Verbena
Lemon Balm
Galangal
White Willow