The Little Green Window Apothecary

Thyme is a wonderful herb with an aromatic scent that is a delicious addition to foods. 

Thyme contains a potent essential oil called thymol which has long been used in traditional medicine as an antimicrobial; helpful against bacteria, viral and fungal agents. This antimicrobial property helps with upper respiratory complaints by helping rid the body of unwanted critters, and helping to move mucus congestion out of the lungs.

Even though rosemary is a humble common herb, it was considered one of the essential medicines by the Arabic, Greek and Roman physicians. European folk medicine has valued rosemary for a long time and is still used for many physical and mental imbalances. Every apothecary should have this versatile herb in stock. 

Lemon balm is a truly a balm for the spirits and is used to soothe anxiety, nervousness, and depression: it is said to gladden the heart and bring light where there is darkness and softness where there is tension.

Children love lemon balm, and it will calm restlessness and nightmares. It is also employed to improve memory and concentration.

Peppermint is an herb of duality; it provides a cooling sensation and a warming sensation, making it a unique herb indeed.

Peppermint is used as a culinary ingredient in smoothies, summer salads, pestos, desserts, garnishes, and herbal blends added to flavour recipes and improve digestibility.

It has long been used as a flavouring agent for candy, gum, toothpaste, mouthwashes, and medicines.

Peppermint is a well-known digestive and is helpful for digestive disorders associated with pain and spasm, from gas and colic and cramps to diarrhea, due to its stimulating action on the digestive organs and its ability to relax tension.

As peppermint is part of the mint family; it is rich in minerals and vitamins. It contains magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, iron, niacin, potassium, sodium, selenium, riboflavin, thiamine, niacin, vitamins A and C, and protein. Most of these vitamins and minerals are water-soluble, so the best way to enjoy the nutrient profile of peppermint is in a water-based extraction, such as tea.

I find peppermint great to use as a steam for nasal and chest congestion as the cool menthol is so soothing and will break up mucus and reduce coughing. Just a note, spearmint is a better option for children as peppermint is a little too strong for them.

Peppermint is both relaxing and stimulating to the nervous system. Its relaxant action calms anxiety and relieves tension, and its stimulating action can be used to wake up in the morning or as an afternoon pick-me-up to recharge vital energy. It also increases mental clarity and aids concentration.

You can make:

• Salve for chest congestion from colds and flu (safe for kids if using peppermint as an infused oil, not an essential oil)
• Steams
• Teas (hot or cold)
• Tincture

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