Late Summer in Jekka’s Herb Garden – Jekka’s top 10 favourite herbs

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Jekka's Herb Garden transforms into a sensory delight in late summer. In a herb-filled garden, late summer is a time for abundant growth, flavourful delights, and an aromatic symphony. Basil, Thyme and Oregano all mix in the air. The vibrant Echinacea flowers and Cornflower create a beautiful backdrop that invites bees and butterfly to dance in their blooms.

This blog highlights Jekka’s 10 favourite herbs that she grows in her garden during this time of the year.

1. English Mace ( Achillea ageratum
2. Greek Oregano (Origanum vulgare hirtum 'Greek')
3. Myrtle, Myrtus comunis
4. Rosenkuppel Oregano (Origanum 'Rosenkuppel')
5. Pomegranate (Punica granatum)
6. Rock Hyssop
7. Rosemary Tuscan Blue ( Salvia rosmarinus "Tuscan Blue").
8. Sparkling Bright Thyme (Thymus 'Sparkling Bright')
9. Sweet Pear Mint - Mentha Spicata "Sweet Pear"
10. Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)

3. Myrtle (Myrtus communis)

   Evergreen hardy shrub with white flowers and golden stamens. Blue/black berries appear in the autumn. Its aromatic leaves give dishes such as stews, sauces and Mediterranean cuisine a slightly spicy, unique flavour. Myrtle's antiseptic and astringent properties are used as traditional remedies to treat respiratory problems and skin conditions. Myrtles, and Lumas are different from Rosemary in that they grow new growth out of old wood. This means you can use shears and re-establish the dome shape. If a branch breaks or if the tips are scorched by the wind, you can simply cut it back. The new growth will then come from old wood.
   
   Would you like to know more? Jekka's blog All About Myrtle & Luma.

Myrtle

4. Rosenkuppel Oregano (Origanum 'Rosenkuppel')

   This hardy deciduous shrub has clusters of small, dark pink flowers which are attractive to bees and other pollinators. The dark green oval leaves are slightly hairy and contrast with the flowers. The leaves and flowers have a mild flavour and are great for salads. It grows similarly to other Oreganos. If you prefer a more flavoursome Oregano then Jekka suggests also trying Oregano "Hot and Spicy" , Oregano "Jekka's Spice" You can also find out more about the following: Italian Marjoram .
   
   Plants can be purchased via a Farm gate collection Open days (our next ones are on the 1 ^st The 2nd ^nd September 2023 Tickets available at this site ).
   
   Learn more about the benefits of a membership. Oregano: Jekka's guide to oregano .

Rosenkuppel Oregano (Origanum 'Rosenkuppel')

5. Pomegranate (Punica granatum)

   Half-hardy deciduous bush with bronze new growth that turns to glossy green narrow oblong shaped leaves as the seasons progress. The lovely red flowers are followed by leathery, red fruits in warm climates. These seeds are used in desserts, salads and drinks, adding a vibrant color and flavour to the dish. It is not likely to produce fruit in the UK unless it's a heated house. Pomegranate's antioxidant content is highly praised in medicine. It supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and has a strong anti-inflammatory effect. Also, it is believed to boost immunity and aid digestion. Pomegranate can be grown in a raised bed, container or garden. Pomegranate tree can be seen in Jekka's Herb Garden You can also find out more about the following: Jekka's Herbetum .

Pomegranate (Punica granatum)

6. Rock Hyssop Hyssopus officiinalis Aristatus

   Semi-evergreen perennial that is compact and has a good habit. It is a dense spike of dark blue small flowers that attracts a variety of pollinators. It has a flavour that is a mixture of Mint, Oregano, and Thyme. It is not used as much in cooking despite its popularity. Add the leaves to soups or stews. The plant will grow bushier if you prune it. Regular harvesting also keeps the plant healthy.
   
   Check out the Other Pages Blue , Pink You can also find out more about the following: White You can use Hyssop seeds (available through the links below) to create a beautiful border that will attract pollinators and you.
   
   Plants can be purchased via a Farm gate collection Open days (our next ones are on the 1 ^st The 2nd ^nd September 2023 Tickets available here .

Blue Hyssop

7. Rosemary Tuscan Blue Salvia Rosemarinus "Tuscan Blue"

   Evergreen shrub that grows upright. Its aromatic, short, dense, thick dark green leaves are shaped like needles and have small, blue flowers. Rosemary, a Mediterranean herb, likes well-draining soil, a sunny location, and moderate watering. After flowering, prune Rosemarys to keep their shape. Remember, it's part of the Lamiaceae, so don't cut into the dead wood. Last winter, the harsh winds caused many of the Rosemary plants to die on our herb farm. Protect with horticultural wool during cold weather. The aromatic leaves of rosemary give roasted meats and potatoes, as well as breads, a pine-like flavor. In terms of medicine, rosemary has been linked to improved digestion and cognitive function. Research is being conducted into its use.
   
   Want to learn more? Want to know more?

8. Sparkling Bright Thyme (Thymus 'Sparkling Bright')

   Evergreen hardy shrub with an upright, bushy habit. This attractive Thyme variety has oval variegated leaves with white, silver and pale green. In summer, it produces terminal clusters of pale pink flowers. Its leaves are lemony in flavour and aroma, so it goes well with many dishes. From chicken to fish or salads. Thymes prefer poor soil that drains well. The plants will need to be protected from harsh winters and cold winds. As long as the soil drains well, plants can withstand deep freezes. Jekka suggests cutting back the plants after flowering to promote growth and prevent them from becoming woody.
   
   Learn more! Want to learn more? .

9. Sweet Pear Mint (Mentha spicata 'Sweet Pear')

   Hardy perennial herb with mid-green leaves that are tinged with mulberry. This Mint has aromatic, lush leaves that add a pear-like flavor to drinks, desserts and salads. Mint varieties like Sweet Pear Mint have benefits for digestion and relaxation due to the essential oils. Mint grows in most soils, but its roots prefer shade and the sun to shine on its leaves. It is better to keep the roots in a pot or container, as it is easier to eliminate than it is to grow. We dig pots of mint in Jekka's Herbetum beds.
   
   Learn more about the benefits of a membership. Jekka's Guide to Mint .

Sweet Pear Mint

10. Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)

    Hardy perennial herbaceous plant with a variety of medicinal and culinary uses. The leaves and flowers are a beautiful mauve color with a spicy citrus flavour. They make an excellent herbal infusion and go well with rice or fish dishes. Bergamot is known for its medicinal properties. It has antibacterial properties, aids digestion and its aromatic oil can be used for aromatherapy or stress relief. Bergamot requires a well-drained, sunny soil with consistent moisture. This perennial thrives best in climates with moderate temperatures. Regular pruning will prevent overcrowding, and improve air circulation. Bergamot has healing and culinary potential. It will elevate your garden as well as your overall health.
    
    Plants can be purchased via a Farm gate collection Open days (our next ones are on the 1 ^st The 2nd ^nd September 2023 Tickets available at this site ).

Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)

Do you want to know more about?

Jekka’s blog, videos and Jekka’s book ‘A Pocketful of Herbs’ or Jekka’s Complete Herb Book’ are all great resources for learning more about herbs. You can also browse Jekkapedia to find herb-based recipes and explore Jekkapedia.

Visit the herb farm at South Gloucestershire during one of our Open Days or Master Classes. Herb experiences are also available, such as the Jekka’s HerbFest this year (see highlights).

Check out the 'Jekka Seasonal Tips' series of blogs for advice on how to grow and maintain herbs. It includes information about what you can do in your herb gardens in spring, autumn and winter, and late spring. Together, they are the foundation of Jekka’s guide on how to grow herb.

You can also check out Jekka's herb of the month blogs for: Bay (January), Rosemary, (February), Salad burnet (March), French Tarragon, (April), Angelica, (May), Alliums, (June), Lavender July), Mint August), Szechuan Pepper September), Thyme November and Curry Tree December.

You can collect herb plants from our herb farm located in South Gloucestershire, or you can attend one of our open days. You can check our Look Good List to see what's available. Use our webform, or send us your list ([email protected]). There is no longer a mail order service available for our plants. However, we occasionally offer a limited selection of Jekka’s Culinary Herb Boxes.

Jekka's Herb Garden

Frequently Asked Questions

How to make herbal remedies at home?

Making herbal remedies at home is easy. All you need is fresh herbs, water, salt, and sugar. You can use any herb, depending on what you want to create.

For example, choose mint, basil, chamomile, or lemon balm to make a soothing tea. If you want to make a cooling drink, try rosemary, thyme, lavender, or eucalyptus.

All you need to do is put all the ingredients into a pot and boil them until they become soft. Strain out the herbs and serve hot.

Add honey to the boiling mixture to make a tonic drink. Honey is a preservative and will keep your herbal remedy fresh for longer.

You can also combine two or three herbs to make a more potent brew. For instance, you could mix equal parts of garlic and ginger to make a powerful antiseptic. Or you can combine equal amounts of turmeric and ginger to make a potent immune booster.

Soak a clean cloth in warm water and place it over the affected area to make a compress. Leave it for 10 minutes before removing it. Do this every day until the swelling goes down.

Make sure you consult your doctor first before using herbal remedies. Some plants may interact negatively with other medications. Also, don't take large quantities of herbs because they can cause side effects.

What are the side effects of basil?

Basil is an herb that originated in tropical regions of India, Africa, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina, and Chile.

The plant is easy to grow in most climates and requires little maintenance. Basil also thrives in poor soil conditions and is very drought tolerant.

As for the health benefits, more than 200 known compounds are found in basil, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, lignans, polysaccharides, essential oils, vitamins, and minerals.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, basil contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties which may help relieve symptoms associated with arthritis, asthma, allergies, bronchitis, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, digestive disorders, depression, eczema, insomnia, infections, migraines, osteoporosis, psoriasis, respiratory problems, stress, and ulcers.

Basil is also a culinary spice and is often added to tomato sauces, soups, salads, pasta dishes, rice dishes, dips, casseroles, pizza toppings, pesto, chicken wings, and popcorn.

However, like all herbs, basil should be consumed in moderation. Too much of anything is not good for you. For example, eating large amounts of basil could lead to stomach upset. And if you have sensitive tummies, avoid consuming basil during pregnancy.

If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your doctor before taking herbal supplements.

You should only take one type of supplement at a time. If you take other medications, make sure they do not interact with each other.

You should never use herbs while on medication unless directed by your doctor.

Some people experience allergic reactions when using herbs, especially those allergic to ragweed. Symptoms include hives, swelling around the mouth or eyes, shortness of breath, chest tightness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness, fainting, heart palpitations, blurred vision, loss of consciousness, seizures, or even death.

Some people who take certain medications may develop an allergy to basil. These drugs include:

• Antacids (like Alka Seltzer)
• Anti-anxiety medicines (Valium, Xanax, Ativan, etc.)
• Beta-blockers (like Propranolol)
• Blood thinners (like Coumadin)
• Calcium channel blockers (like Amlodipine)
• Cholesterol-lowering drugs (like Lipitor, Zocor, Mevacor, and Pravachol)
• Diabetes medicine (like Glucophage)
• Diuretics (like Lasix)
• Heartburn medicines (like Prilosec OTC)
• Hormone therapy (like Premarin, Tamoxifen, Femara)
• Insulin (like Humalog, Lantus, Novolin R)
• NSAIDs (like Aleve, Motrin, Advil, Excedrin, Tylenol, Ibuprofen)
• Oral contraceptives (like Ortho Evra, Yasmin, Loestrin, Ovrette, Yaz, and Seasonale)
• Pain relievers (like Aspirin, Celebrex, Vicodin, Percodan, Darvocet, Dilaudid, Fiorinal, Tylenol 3s, Naproxen, Motrin, Tramadol, Ultram, Voltaren

What is the difference between "regular" and smoked paprika powder?

Regular Paprika Powder (Piment d'Espelette) is an essential ingredient for our recipes. We use it for its intense flavor and color. It's also used as a spice and seasoning agent. Smoked Paprika Powder (Paprika Chorizo) adds a smoky taste and aroma to dishes. Both types of Paprika Powder come from Spain, where they grow the best peppers in the world.

Smoked Paprika Powder (Chorizo Paprika) is made from red peppers, which are dried slowly in special ovens. This gives them a rich flavor. They are then ground and mixed with salt, garlic, and spices.

Regular Paprika Powder (Espelette Paprika) is made by grinding green bell peppers without additives.

How is basil used for medicinal purposes?

In ancient times, doctors would prescribe basil leaves to treat colds and coughs. Today, basil contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties, making it an ideal remedy for arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, eczema, gout, hay fever, indigestion, migraines, menstrual cramps, sinus infections, sore throats, ulcers, varicose veins, and more.

Basil is also known for its ability to help protect against cancer, heart disease, diabetes, skin conditions, and even aging.

Basil is often referred to as "the herb of grace" because it helps us relax and unwind after stressful situations. It is also said to improve memory and concentration, boost energy levels, increase libido, and enhance athletic performance.

The list goes on and on. Basil is a versatile plant that offers a wide range of benefits for our health and well-being.

What herb is best for healing?

Herbs are a fantastic way to help heal our bodies. Herbal medicine has been used since ancient times and continues to grow today. There are thousands of herbs known to cure various ailments.

Some herbs are excellent for treating colds and flu, while others can treat anxiety, depression, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and more.

There are also herbal remedies for skin care, hair loss, weight loss, sexual health, energy, sleep, digestion, and much more.

The list goes on and on. But one herb stands above them all regarding its ability to heal. That herb is called aloe vera.

Aloe Vera is considered to be the world's most powerful healer. For centuries it has helped people heal themselves naturally without any side effects.

It's incredible how well aloe vera works. It's even better than prescription drugs and surgery.

In addition to its natural healing properties, aloe vera is highly versatile and can be used in almost any area of life, including food, beauty products, and household cleaning supplies.

You may not realize this, but aloe vera contains hundreds of active compounds, which include vitamins A, C, E, B1, B2, B3, B6, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, sulfur, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, chloride, fluoride, iodine, selenium and more.

These nutrients are essential for human body functions such as cell growth, metabolism, immune system support, healthy bones and teeth, healthy blood pressure levels, healthy eyesight, healthy cardiovascular systems, healthy digestive systems, healthy lungs, healthy nervous system, healthy reproductive organs, healthy skin, and healthy libido.

Statistics

• For those with high cholesterol, garlic supplementation appears to reduce total and/or LDL cholesterol by about 10-15% (72Trusted Source73Trusted (healthline.com)
• Studies have shown that cinnamon can lower fasting blood sugars by 10-29% in diabetic patients, which is a significant amount (9Trusted Source10Trusted (healthline.com)

External Links

[TAG32]

• Ashwagandha | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center


• Grape Seed | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

[TAG35]

• Peppermint oil (Mintoil®) in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: A prospective, double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial


• Curcumin reverses the effects of chronic stress on behavior, the HPA axis, BDNF expression, and phosphorylation of CREB

[TAG38]

• Detoxification and antioxidant effects of curcumin in rats experimentally exposed to mercury - Agarwal - 2010 - Journal of Applied Toxicology - Wiley Online Library

[TAG40]

• Bouquet garni - Wikipedia

How To

How to use herbs safely?

Many people think that herbs should only be used under medical supervision because they believe that some herbs are poisonous. However, this is not true.

Many herbs have long histories of safe use. For example, garlic has been used for thousands of years to fight infections. It's also been shown to lower cholesterol levels and reduce high blood pressure.

However, if you're pregnant or nursing, avoid taking certain herbs. You should also avoid them if you suffer from allergies or sensitivities to herbs.

You can do several things to ensure you get the best results from your herbs and supplements. First, always read labels before consuming anything containing herbs or spices. Second, take the lowest dose recommended on the label. Third, don't use more than one supplement at any given time. Fourth, talk to your doctor about how to combine specific herbs and supplements. Finally, keep track of your consumption to know whether you need to adjust your dosage.

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