Indoor Herb Garden Layout

For thousands of years, humans have used herbs in the following ways:

• To protect against germs
• To heal
• As perfumes
• To flavor food
• As a disinfectant
• As currency

Fresh medicinal plants and herbals can be procured in three ways. They can be bought from other gardeners and heath food stores, they can be gathered in the wild or they can be grown in a personal garden. The best time to gather herbs is mid-afternoon, as the plants are at their peak of activity during this time.

Indoor Herb Garden

Indoor herb gardens are for those who have no space or simply yearn to be surrounded by greenery all year long. These gardens can transform an old and boring room into a vibrant living space. These indoor plants have been proven to clean and clear air in the apartment or house. These plants do require commitment in the areas of watering and feeding but they are also a front-line against allergens and dust.

The indoor garden kit is a blessing to anyone who would like to have an indoor herb garden but is new to the idea. It has all the necessary tools to get you started and fits conveniently on a window sill. The only thing you need to add to the kit is water!

Indoor Herb Garden Layout

If you have very little space at home, you can use the kitchen ledge for container indoor gardens. A south or west-facing window would be good. A herb garden must be planned according to the herbs you would like to grow. Once you have thought about this, you can experiment with colors and types. While selecting the area for a herb garden it is important to take into consideration drainage conditions.

You should also check up on the height, foliage and space requirements of various herbs before getting your herb garden design in place. While deciding on the bed keep the space restrictions in mind. The herb garden should also be easily accessible. Finally, plan the herb garden design based on the height of the herbs and how the herbs compliment each other.

The Terminology of Herbs

Infusion: This term is used to refer to the process in which herbs are steeped in boiling water to be drunk as a tea.

Decoction: This refers to the process in which the dried herbs are simmered in hot water.

Herbal Ointment: This term refers to the process in when herbs are combined with other ingredients and made into a cream.

Herbal Compress: This term is used to refer to the process wherein a gauze or cloth is soaked in an infusion or decoction and wrapped and applied externally.

Herbal Wash: This term is used for the process in which herbs are added to water and are used to heal and cleanse externally.

Tips

These are the things that need to be kept in mind while working with herbs for medicinal purposes or food.

• Remember that you can personally identify the herbs you are using. This helps ensure that they are safe.
• While preparing an infusion or decoction, use only glass or porcelain for cookware and mixing bowls.
• While preparing herbs for storage, place them in an air-tight container and store in a cool place. Do not refrigerate the herbs.
• While making preparations and recipes, stick to the recommended dose. Over-use of herbs can defeat the purpose for which you are using them. The most beneficial herbs can also turn toxic if overused.