If you are looking for something to do with the kids during the holidays, while at the same time take advantage of the warm weather we have been having lately, why not think about getting into the garden.

Of course, outdoor space is not something we all have an abundance of in Docklands, so why not start by planting a herb garden on your balcony or courtyard.

Herbs are easy to grow and maintain, can be grown in a pot so they don't take up much room, and smell beautiful on a warm summer's day. There are many benefits to growing your own herbs. Fresh herbs not only make your food look and taste better, they can also improve your health. As a Kinesiologist, I am always looking for the most natural products I can find, and you can't get much more natural then fresh herbs you have grown yourself. Here are some of my favourites.

Basil has been known for thousands of years for its medicinal quality. When eaten, it is said to relieve headaches, anxiety and mild depression, stomach upsets as well as aid digestion. Put a handful of fresh leaves into a cup of boiling water, let it infuse for 20 minutes, and dab on the mixture to treat acne. You can also rub dry leaves on insect bites to reduce itching and inflammation. Perfect if you don't want to use harsh chemicals on your skin.

Mint is listed in one of the first published medical texts of the 1800's as a stomach soother. When eaten, or drunk as a tea, it can aid anxiety, stress, act as a digestive aid, relieve cramps, motion sickness, morning sickness and insomnia. It can be used externally to relieve itchy skin. By putting fresh leaves into a bowl of boiling water and inhaling the steam, you can reduce the severity of headaches, coughs, colds, lung and nasal congestion.

Rosemary was used by nurses in World War II as an antiseptic. The ancient Chinese and Romans used it to relieve respiration and gastrointestinal issues. Rosemary stimulates the circulatory, digestive and nervous systems. Today, Herbalists recommend Rosemary for headaches, indigestion and to gargle infused water to treat bad breath.
Drunk as a tea it can settle an upset stomach, or can be used as a hair rinse to combat dandruff.

Thyme can be drunk in a tea and used as a cough remedy, and a digestive aid. It was used as an antiseptic in the time of the plague, and herbalists recommend a Thyme stuffed pillow to help with insomnia. And maybe best of all, it is said to counter the effects of ageing.

Nicole Hutcheson is a highly skilled Professional Kinesiology Practitioner and an internationally qualified Instructor. Nicole has been a Docklands resident for 6 years and is a regular 3008 contributor.

If you would like to make an appointment with Nicole, please
call 9819 6835 or email
nicole@chikinesiology.com.au