Growing herbs organically

The term herb is used to describe those plants which are commonly selected for their culinary, therapeutic, cleansing, and devotional properties. Throughout history, herbs have been associated with the cultural and religious practices of many influential civilisations. In ancient Greece, bay leaves were fashioned into garlands and presented as praise offerings to triumphant athletes of the original Olympiad events. In a similar manner, fresh and dried leaves were included as part of the ritual and sacred offerings to the ancient deities.

Aside from these ceremonial applications, the Greeks appreciated the therapeutic and culinary aspects of this richly aromatic plant. For example, fresh bay leaves were steeped in jars of olive oil which were then massaged into tired muscles for improving circulation and alleviating the symptoms of arthritis and rheumatism. During festivals, mixtures of dried bay leaves and other herbs were added to enrich the warm flavours of wine, and to savour meat dishes, particularly lamb, and goat.

It is interesting to note that herbs have always played a significant role in the formal exchanges, exploration and trading ventures which have initiated contact and dialogue across previously separate cultures. Persian traders exchanged aromatic oils, herbs and spices for the delicate silks and tapestries of the Far East. Spanish, Portuguese and Dutch sailors extended the boundaries of the known world in the search for new and exotic flavours which were desperately sought by Europeans. In the increasingly connected world of today, this process continues as individuals explore the benefits of garden herbs which are both readily available and gathered from all corners of the globe.

Unlike some categories of plant which can be difficult to obtain and grow, most of the useful herbs are naturally common and resilient plants which can be gathered from their wild state or cultivated with minimal preparation and effort. Organically grown herbs are suitable for planting in  many environments including ordinary garden beds, raised beds, open ground and surrounds, potted gardens,  balconies, windowsills, indoor herbariums, and roof gardens.
 
In discreet and subtle ways, raising a humble organic herb garden can smooth the sometimes difficult transition away from biologically unsustainable consumerism. Despite strategically packaged advertising campaigns, much of the so called individualism within contemporary society is simply masking an underlying conformity and the lack of creative vision.

Contemporary societies are now increasingly dependent on chemically based agriculture and other industrial processes which damage the environment and increase global energy consumption toward dangerously high levels. A trend toward increased work commitments and the associated constraints imposed upon leisure and recreational time have encouraged an over supply of low quality convenience and takeaway foods. Many of us have responded by adopting healthier, more sustainable lifestyles. While a thoughtful approach to nutrition, exercise, and stress reduction, is widely recommended, there remain some hidden opportunities for assuming greater control of health and wellbeing amidst the routine activities of life.

Over the last century, supermarkets, pharmacies and bathroom cabinets have replaced fields and gardens as the initial source of relief and treatment for minor cuts, burns, colds, indigestion and similar everyday ailments. On a worldwide scale, sales of non prescription medications amount to billions of dollars every year. From both the therapeutic and environmental perspectives, many of the old fashioned herbal remedies offer an excellent alternative. For example, the pain of minor burns or skin irritation can be reduced with the gel like sap of organically grown Aloe vera. When applied directly to the affected site, a natural ingredient known as barbaloin provides cooling, antiseptic, and moisturising properties which alleviate discomfort and promote healing.

Organically grown herbs are also suitable for reducing our dependence on chemical based household products. Today’s leading brand insect repellents and knockdown sprays are safer than those distributed several decades ago, however, they still remain a potentially dangerous product for babies, young children, and individuals coping with food intolerance, allergies, or compromised immune function. There are a number of herbs which naturally discourage flies, mosquitoes, and similar nuisance insects.

Common mint, basil, rosemary, and lavender are all highly recommended for planting around patios, barbecues, and other outdoor entertainment areas. External clothing can be lightly sprayed with a cold infusion of these herbs combined with a few drops of citronella, or clove oil. Fresh garden herbs can also be used to supplement the growing range of organic skincare and personal hygiene products. For example, a cold rinse of nettle leaves will strengthen and condition hair. Chamomile is used to lighten and condition fair hair, while a rinse containing ground ginger root can be used to treat problem dandruff without the side effects of harsh chemical based preparations. Nasturtium leaves can be soaked in water overnight then used as a mild facial cleanser and toner.

Despite their adaptability and tolerance under most growing conditions, it is worthwhile ensuring that garden herbs are cultivated according to sound organic principles. To an expert, high quality herbs can be identified by their colour, texture, aroma, and in the case of therapeutic varieties, for the strength of their healing properties. In many instances, their quality can be objectively evaluated, by measuring the actual concentrations of the pharmacologically active constituents. This has been demonstrated in common garlic which is widely recognised for its ability to control infection by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria. When garlic is planted in nutrient deprived soils there will be significantly lower concentrations of the active ingredient known as allicin. Garlic possessing low allicin concentrations will not provide the range of therapeutic effects which are available from higher quality bulbs. In a similar manner, the quantity and potency of the aromatic oils obtained from basil, thyme, and rosemary are significantly reduced in plants raised with chemical fertilisers.

Organic cultivation ensures that garden herbs contain fewer contaminants than conventionally grown varieties. Increased purity and biological safety are relevant for ensuring the optimum nutritional benefits of fresh and dried herbs. Adding herbs to salads, soups, drinks, vegetarian, and meat dishes is an easy way to increase the daily supplies of antioxidant compounds. When included as part of a balanced nutrient intake, organically raised herbs assist the body to improve its natural resistance against disease and to repair cellular damage associated with stress, illness, ageing, and environmental factors such as poor air quality.

Many herbs have strong effects on the body, and several are potentially dangerous, so it is wise to proceed cautiously and always seek advice from a naturopath or similar professional when considering therapeutic applications.  

With a small amount of planning, most herbs will contribute to the natural efficiency and beauty of the organic approach to gardening. Many herbs make excellent companion plants, improving soil chemistry and other conditions to assist the growth of another species. For example, in dry climates basil is traditionally grown alongside tomatoes to improve their flavour and reduce the incidence of aphid and whitefly infestation. In both the carefully designed or casual garden, many species of herb provide excellent ground covers to protect precious topsoil from wind and water erosion.

Instead of the conventional hybrid grasses, plant chamomile to create a lawn which releases an exotic spiced apple scent across the entire garden every time it is trodden upon. All herbs are suitable for inclusion in compost, and many can be treated as green manures or processed into rich liquid supplements. Nettle, clover, mustard, and comfrey are all particularly good for reinvigorating tired soils. While certain herbs are known to repel troublesome insects, many others are capable of attracting beneficial insects and predators. For example flowering lavender, thyme, and oregano will attract pollinating bees while their foliage can provide refuge for helpful predators like lacewing, beetles, ladybird, small garden spiders, and lizards.