Gardening for Good Health

on July 19, 2011
Katie Styblo; garden: Gardens of Babylon, Nashville, TN

Energy-Boosting Garden

Rosemary has been used for centuries to treat mental fatigue and depression. Spinach, made famous by one Popeye the Sailor Man, is packed with Vitamin A, zinc and antioxidants to put an extra pep in your step.

Katie Styblo; garden: Gardens of Babylon, Nashville, TN

Cold and Flu Fighting Garden

Lemongrass, lemon verbena and lemon balm contain potent antiviral compounds, which help fight flu symptoms like sore throat, while lemon balm and lemon verbena tea can help reduce fevers. Echinacea also has soothing benefits. A popular tea flavor, echinacea has long been relied on as an immune system-booster.

Katie Styblo; garden: Gardens of Babylon, Nashville, TN

Anti-aging Garden

Kale, sage, oregano, broccoli and thyme together create a fabulous anti-aging garden. Not only nutritious, this garden's contents are also high in vitamins A and C as well as calcium, iron, protein, fiber and antioxidants, all of which are known for keeping aging bodies happy and healthy.

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Plant Good Health

Whether you’re looking for a heart health boost or are simply in search of a better night’s sleep, try one of these healthy container gardens, inspired by Lake Austin Spa Resort . Follow the simple “recipes,” and reap the natural health benefits.

Katie Styblo; garden: Gardens of Babylon, Nashville, TN

Heart Health Garden

A diet high in antioxidants commonly found in foods like tomatoes, onions, oregano, rosemary and parsley, helps prevent plaque build-up in the heart. Plus, onions and garlic (not pictured, but easy to plant) make blood less likely to clot and help lower blood pressure and bad cholesterol numbers.

Katie Styblo; garden: Gardens of Babylon, Nashville, TN

Better Sleep Garden

Snip an assortment of the flowers and herbs from this garden ... chamomile, lavender, and spearmint ... and brew up a hot cup of tea before bed. Or, dry out an assortment and tie them up in a muslin bag. Place the bag of calming aromas inside your pillow, or let it steep while you soak in a warm bath.

Katie Styblo; garden: Gardens of Babylon, Nashville, TN

Tea Garden

Swear off soft drinks and their potential for weight loss sabotage in favor of a warm cup of tea. Snip a few sprigs, crush them up, add them to a teapot and cover with almost-boiling water. Add honey or agave nectar to sweeten, and enjoy!