Herbs work in nearly magical and simply astonishing ways: pains vanish, spasms can relax, constipation is overcome, headaches disappear, nervousness recedes, colds can be banished, allergies counteracted, fevers controlled, blood flow arrested... the magic seems never-ending. Since early Neanderthal man, herbs and plants have been used for maintaining good health, as menopause herbal remedies and healing ailments. And even with the progress of modern medical science, methods and ideas based on healing with herbs have been sustained and grown in different nations, among differing cultures, often being used in exactly the same way.

Most herbs can be planted and cultivated with a minimum of effort on your part. Several herbs are drought tolerant, many are perennials, and a number are resistant to insects and diseases. Herbs are versatile plants, providing amazing flavors for seasoning our food and adding fragrances to room freshening potpourri. In addition, with their attractive shapes, intoxicating scents, diverse textures and numerous shades of gray and green, herbs are often used in making a landscape that appeals to the senses of sight, touch and smell. Could you imagine doing without them?

Make sure when you plant your garden it is as close as possible to the kitchen. I know it sound a little trite to say this but you would be surprised at how many herb gardeners plant their herbs all the way in the back of their garden And then when they think about using them - find it is just "too far" to walk to harvest. Put them right at the back door. You might even want to grow the most common ones in a handy window sill container if need be, but grow the ones you’ll use the most, right where it is easiest to harvest them. And just remember, you may not feel comfortable leaving young ones with heated cooking utensils and stoves for even the five minutes it takes to get to the back of your yard.

Try experimenting with the different types of herbs there are and use them in your foods. Try using different combinations. You can also grow your own herbs to make your own natural herbal courses of action based on the information handed down over the generations. You can find a lot of information in your local library or at your health store. But to be safe everyone should be sure to consult their doctor or qualified health professional before starting herbal remedies.