Aromatherapy is used worldwide to improve both physical and emotional wellness. Practitioners use plant-based essential oils to provide relief from various conditions including stress, anxiety and depression, insomnia, headaches and even digestive problems. While some of the health claims made for aromatherapy may be disputed in conventional medical circles, it is largely accepted that aromas can have an uplifting effect on mood and our overall sense of wellbeing.
The scent of a garden is extremely pleasurable and relaxing, and with a bit of planning it’s possible to bring some of those aromatherapy benefits to both your garden and home. Fortunately, many of the plants that are used to create therapeutic essential oils can easily be grown in gardens, or even in pots around the house. Here are a few of the aromatic herbs you should be able to grow easily.
Lavender (lavandula angustifolia) – With evergreen leaves and striking purple flowers that bloom in summer, lavender is known for its relaxing properties, and is used in many products such as lotions, bath oils and soaps. Lavender tea is particularly calming, and the leaves and flowers can also be used (in moderation) in soups and stews, or in salads. Put dried flowers into an herb sachet and pop it under your pillow for a good night’s sleep.
Spearmint (mentha spicata) – This variety of mint has an energising and emotionally uplifting aroma, and grows well in semi-shade. Mint can be put to any number of uses in the kitchen; it goes well with potatoes or peas, is fantastic for seasoning lamb, and can even add extra zing to a salad. Spearmint tea may also be used to ease digestive discomfort or flatulence.
Basil (ocimum basilicum) – With a distinctive aroma, basil grows well both outdoors and inside. It isn’t as hard-wearing as some plants, and generally should be brought indoors during winter. Aside from adding that indefinable something to any Italian dish, uncooked basil leaves may also aid digestion, while in aromatherapy basil essential oil is used to help improve concentration and to ease symptoms of depression. For extra convenience, you can even freeze your basil leaves and break them out when they’re needed.
Camomile (chamaemelum nobile) – Camomile’s light, sweet fragrance is renowned for its calming and relaxing effect, and this carries across into the mildly sedative qualities of hot camomile tea. Camomile also has a soothing and anti-inflammatory effect on the skin and is great for treating rashes and other skin irritations – you can make a calming topical oil by infusing olive oil with camomile flowers in a sealed jar for around three weeks.
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