This guide provides tips on cultivating 12 medicinal herbs that support everyday wellness. It also explores each herb's history, benefits, ecological roles (like attracting pollinators and creating insect habitats), and cautions about invasiveness.
You can transform your backyard into a vibrant, therapeutic space with plants that carry centuries of traditional healing wisdom.
Aloe Vera
Soothes burns and skin irritations with its moisture-rich gel; thrives in warm, dry climates.
Low-maintenance and non-invasive, but frost-sensitive in colder regions.
Lavender
Known for its calming scent and use in teas and oils; attracts bees and butterflies.
Needs dry, sunny conditions; not invasive but dislikes humidity and overwatering.
Peppermint
Relieves digestive issues and sinus discomfort; emits a refreshing aroma.
Highly invasive—best grown in containers or with root barriers.
Chamomile
Calms the body and supports sleep and digestion; ideal for teas.
Grows best in sunny, well-drained soil; attracts pollinators with daisy-like flowers.
Lemon Balm
Offers stress relief and a citrusy scent; attracts bees and beneficial insects.
Can spread if not maintained; trim regularly to prevent overgrowth.
Sage
Used for cooking and anti-inflammatory remedies; has aromatic, silvery leaves.
Thrives in full sun; easy to manage with occasional pruning.
Calendula
Anti-inflammatory and promotes skin healing; produces bright orange/yellow flowers.
Low-maintenance and non-invasive; ideal for salves and teas.
Echinacea
Boosts immune function and fights infections; draws pollinators.
Hardy and non-invasive; prefers sun and well-drained soil.
Thyme
Antiseptic and supports respiratory health; adds culinary flavor.
Forms dense ground cover; low-maintenance and attracts bees.
Ginger
Aids digestion and reduces inflammation; grown for its underground rhizomes.
Needs warmth and moisture; best suited for containers in cool climates.
St. John’s Wort
Traditionally used to ease mild depression and anxiety; displays bright yellow flowers.
May spread aggressively; requires regular trimming to control.
Holy Basil (Tulsi)
Adaptogen that supports stress and immune health; emits a spicy aroma.
Thrives in warm climates; non-invasive but frost-sensitive.
Cody Medina, Small Scale Farmer. Updated: March 18, 2025. https://thegardenmagazine.com/12-medicinal-herbs-to-grow-in-your-backyard/ Images from Unsplash