PLANT MEDICINE SECTION
Grow Your Own Medicinal Garden by Maria Carbonell
A
yurveda, birthed in South India more than 5,000 years ago, is known as the mother of all healing
systems. T is ancient system of medicine is as relevant today as it was then, with an ap- proach that is comprehensive and sophisti- cated, yet simple, without being simplistic. T is systematic method focuses on treating the whole self—mind, body and spirit— and concentrates on diet, meditation, lifestyle, holistic therapies and treatments, yoga and herbs. Ayurveda is a path of com- ing to realize one’s true self in a harmoni- ous relationship with nature. T ere’s something magical and
grounding about putting your hands in the soil, bending to the earth and caring for a plant from seedling to tabletop or teapot. T e plant that was given nourishment dur- ing her cycles of growth become nourish- ment in the home, the belly and the mind. Growing a medicine garden can help you develop a deeper connection to nature. Growing Ayurveda plants in your healing garden not only strengthens that connec- tion to nature but creates more opportu- nities to live a healthier life. T e following three Texas-loving plants—holy basil, gotu kola and ashwaganda—are tradi- tional Ayurvedic plants known for their healing, health-affi rming and beauty- enhancing properties.
12 Austin Area Edition
Holy Basil (Ocimum Sanctum) What it is: Holy
Basil, also called sacred basil and tulasi, is known as the great protec- tor. Bees love this plant’s aromatic fl owers, which purifi es and welcomes guests at the entry of homes in India. T e leaves are traditionally used as tea. T e plant is easy to grow, and the fragrance is bright and mood boosting as aroma therapy.
T e benefi ts: Holy basil helps to strength- en immunity, both physical and spiritual. It supports the body and mind during taxing times and increases natural energy so you can deal with the stressors of daily life more gracefully. It also assists in clearing toxins from the gut and reduces infl ammation. It is also oſt en used to support weight loss. For beauty, holy basil helps skin radiate with the glow of good health. Parts used: leaves How to use it: Infuse one teaspoon of dry leaves in eight ounces of hot water and let sit for eight minutes. Enjoy the fragrant aroma and flavor. Add honey or lemon if desired. You may also use a blend of equal parts gotu kola and holy basil dried leaves for mental clarity, it’s a calming and balancing synergistic blend.
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Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica) What it is: Gotu
kola, also called as brahmi and In- dian pennywort, is known as the herb of longevity. In Austin, this plant is commonly used as ground cover and in hanging baskets. T e leaves are shaped like a brain and have a bitter taste. T e benefi ts: Gotu kola helps to enhance memory, concentration and focus. It helps to balance both hemispheres of the brain, so you operate using both your analytical/linear and creative/intuitive sides. In addition, it’s benefi cial for the endocrine gland which is connected to one’s intuition. Parts used: leaves and stems How to use it: Simply pick as you go and eat three raw leaves per day. Dice leaves and sprinkle raw in salads. Juice two large hand- fuls of leaves by itself or with other vegeta- bles for a robust drink. You may also powder the dry leaves and take as a brain boosting supplement in your smoothies.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) What is it: Ashwa-
gandha, a woody shrub, is also known as Indian ginseng and winter cherry. It is considered one of the most impor- tant herbs of Ayurvedic medicine. Also play-
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