If you are new to herbs the range and variety of plants can sometimes be a little overwhelming. Here is a simple guide to show you how to easily incorporate three very effective herbs. You might even have some of these growing in your garden or in your kitchen herb rack!

1. Chamomile

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is a wonderful soothing herb and an important herb to always have stocked as it is used for a number of different ailments. A hot infusion of chamomile will help to soothe an upset stomach or combat feelings of nausea. It’s a good before bed herb as it can help you to unwind and drift off. Chamomile is an emollient – helping the skin to retain moisture – and an anti-inflammatory which makes it well placed to restore irritated or dry skin. You can make a relaxing herb soak by adding a couple of chamomile teabags into your bath and then rubbing the teabags directly on your skin to moisturise and restore.

2. Lemon balm

We all need a herbal pick-me-up from time to time and lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) has long been associated with raising spirits and lifting the heart. The Arabian herbalist Avicenna (980-1037) said that lemon balm “causeth the mind and heart to be merry”. As a nervine, it works on our nervous system and modern research has shown it to be an effective remedy for anxiety, depression and insomnia. It combines well with lavender as a herbal infusion for relieving stress and tension. It’s also a great herb for bees who adore the flowers and explains its botanical name melissa which is derived from the Greek word meaning bee.

3. Rosemary

Most commonly regarded as a culinary herb, rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) also has many applications as a medicinal plant. It is a circulatory tonic and a hot infusion of rosemary will not only aid digestion but will also help alleviate headaches and tiredness. We like to have a hot infusion of rosemary after lunch to help focus our minds and power us through the afternoon. It is also said to promote concentration and memory so good to carry a sprig with you to sniff on before a big test, interview or presentation. You can also make a massage rub by mixing 5 drops of rosemary essential oil with 15ml almond oil to soothe aching muscles and joints.

Written by Ruth Ridley