Ok, that’s just a saying, but it’s important to know your way around a plant - these are nature’s medicines after all.
Let’s dive into the fascinating world of plants. No, we're not just talking about how they look nice on your windowsill or how they oxygenate our atmosphere (though that's pretty important). We're talking about the hidden superpowers they possess and why humans have been obsessed with them since, well, forever!
Leaves: The Green Giants of Goodness
Let’s start with leaves – those green powerhouses that soak up sunlight and turn it into food. But did you know that they’re also mini medicine cabinets? Think of peppermint leaves, perfect for your post-dinner tea to help digest that extra slice of pizza. And don't forget aloe vera leaves – the perfect solution for when you underestimate the strength of the summer sun and end up looking like a lobster.
Best Harvesting Time: Early morning, when the essential oils are at their peak. Plus, it’s cooler, and you’re less likely to get sunburned. Win-win!
Roots: Digging Deep into Healing
Roots are the unsung heroes, working tirelessly underground. Take ginger, for instance. This knobby little root is a miracle worker for nausea and digestive issues. Then there’s ginseng, revered in traditional Chinese medicine for boosting energy and even helping with stress. It’s like nature’s energy drink, minus the jittery side effects.
Best Harvesting Time: Late Autumn, when the plant’s energy has migrated to the roots, making them extra potent. The plant no longer needs the energy to shoot upwards to create a pretty flower to attract pollinators, so it stores all the carbohydrate in the root. This has a wonderful prebiotic effect on our digestive systems. Inulin, for example, is in Chicory root and Dandelion root - they both make a great coffee when those roots are roasted!
Flowers: Not Just Pretty Faces
Flowers aren’t just for Instagram likes. Chamomile flowers are well-known for their calming effects, perfect for those nights when counting sheep just isn’t cutting it. And let’s not overlook lavender – not only does it smell divine, but it's also great for reducing anxiety and improving sleep. Flowers contain volatile oils which is the part you can smell when you walk past a Rose. The oils protect the plant from invaders and attract the right insects to ensure its survival. In humans, they act as anticarcinogenic compounds, especially to the pancreas and breast. They work through the sense of smell to have an uplifting effect on mood. They are natural pain relievers and they can be sedative.
The herbs highest in these natural essential oils are Lavender, Cinnamon, Rosemary, Mint, or peppermint or spearmint, Oregano, Thyme, Yarrow, Chamomile, Clove, Feverfew, Ginger, Sage, and the citrus fruits.
Best Harvesting Time: Mid-morning, after the dew has dried but before the sun starts zapping their vitality. Timing is everything!
Seeds: Tiny But Mighty
Seeds might be small, but don’t underestimate them. Take flaxseeds – packed with omega-3 fatty acids, they’re perfect for heart health and hormonal balance. And let’s not forget the tiny poppy seeds, which,