Welcome to the fun world of herbalism! Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or a curious novice, there’s no better time to dive into the delightful art of using herbs than during the unpredictable summer months in London.
Here, I’ll introduce you to five fantastic plants that you probably already have in your kitchen or can easily find. These herbal heroes—mint, thyme, cloves, chamomile, and aloe vera—are perfect for navigating the British weather with a touch of French charm. Let’s explore their main properties and discover how to use them day-to-day.
1. Mint
Main Properties: Mint is a refreshing herb known for its cooling properties, making it a summer staple. It helps with digestion, ease headaches, and can even freshen your breath.
How to Use:
- Cool Mint Infusion: Brew fresh mint leaves in hot water for a revitalizing tea. Perfect for those unexpected heatwaves.
- Minty Iced Drinks: Add mint leaves to your lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing twist. Très chic!
- DIY Mint Balm: Crush mint leaves with a bit of coconut oil and apply to your temples to soothe summer headaches. Just what you need after a long day exploring Camden Market.
Personal Note: My boyfriend, still if he will not acknowledge it, swears by mint for helping with his digestion. As he eat really fast, he always have issue digesting after his meal, so when I offer him a cup of mint tea, he is always thankful. And voilà—problem solved! It’s a digestive miracle in a cup.
Pagan Significance: In pagan traditions, mint is associated with healing, protection, and prosperity. It is often used in rituals to cleanse the home and invite positive energy.
2. Thyme
Main Properties: Thyme is a powerhouse with antiseptic, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. It’s a versatile herb that boosts immunity and supports respiratory health.
How to Use:
- Thyme Tea: Steep fresh or dried thyme in hot water to make a soothing tea that can help ease sore throats and coughs—perfect for those drizzly London days.
- Herb-Infused Oil: Combine thyme with olive oil to create a fragrant oil. Drizzle it over your salads or use it as a base for marinades.
- Natural Cleaner: Mix thyme essential oil with water and vinegar for a natural household cleaner that keeps your home smelling delightful and free from germs.
Personal Note: My colleagues have nicknamed me “the witch🧙♀️” because of my thyme and clove concoctions. Whenever my team mates starts sneezing from the fickle London weather, I’m the one they turn to for my magical brew. It’s either a testament to my herbal prowess or a sign that I’ve missed my calling in the world of wizardry.
Pagan Significance: Thyme is often used in pagan rituals for purification and protection. It is believed to give courage and ward off negative energies.
3. Cloves
Main Properties: Cloves are tiny but mighty, packed with antioxidants and boasting anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial benefits. They can relieve pain and improve oral health.
How to Use:
- Clove Mouthwash: Steep cloves in hot water, let cool, and use as a mouthwash to combat bad breath and soothe toothaches.
- Spiced Tea: Add a couple of cloves to your tea for a warming and aromatic drink. Ideal for those surprisingly cool summer evenings.
- Aromatic Sachets: Place a few cloves in a small cloth bag and tuck it into your wardrobe to keep your clothes smelling fresh.
Personal Note: My clove tea has become an office legend. Whenever someone feels a tickle in their throat, they come to me with wide eyes and a hopeful smile. It’s like Hogwarts, but with fewer spells and more herbs 🌿
Pagan Significance: In paganism, cloves are used for protection and to attract good luck. They are often included in spells and rituals to bring about positive changes and prosperity.
4. Chamomile
Main Properties: Chamomile is renowned for its calming effects. It helps reduce stress, improves sleep, and soothes skin irritations.
How to Use:
- Chamomile Tea: Enjoy a cup of chamomile tea before bed to ensure a restful night’s sleep. It’s the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of London life.
- Cooling Compress: Brew chamomile tea, chill it, soak a cloth in the tea, and apply to sunburned skin for relief.
- Eye Soother: Use cooled chamomile tea bags as compresses to reduce puffiness and soothe tired eyes.
Personal Note: Chamomile has been my saviour during hay fever season. I make a strong infusion, soak a compress in it, and place it over my sore eyes. It’s also a fantastic remedy for combating London pollution. Who needs a spa day when you have chamomile at home?
Pagan Significance: Chamomile is often used in pagan rituals for its calming and protective qualities. It is believed to attract money and promote healing when used in spells and potions.
5. Aloe Vera
Main Properties: Aloe vera is a versatile plant known for its healing and moisturizing properties. It soothes burns, hydrates the skin, and aids digestion.
How to Use:
- Sunburn Relief: Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to sunburned skin for instant cooling and healing.
- Hydrating Drink: Add a small amount of aloe vera juice to your water for a refreshing and hydrating drink. Great for those sticky, humid days.
- Skin Soother: Use aloe vera gel as a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and glowing. Perfect for dealing with the city’s pollution and the drying effects of air conditioning.
Personal Note: Aloe vera has been a real help for my dermatitis. A little dab here and there, and my skin feels soothed and moisturized. It’s a skincare hero that I can’t live without.
Pagan Significance: Aloe vera is considered a plant of immortality and protection in pagan traditions. It is often used in healing rituals and to guard against bad luck.
Final Thoughts🍀
Incorporating these herbs into your daily routine can make your summer in London not only bearable but positively delightful. Whether you’re cooling off with mint, fighting off a summer cold with thyme, or soothing a sunburn with aloe vera, these plants are your trusty companions. So, brew a cup of chamomile tea, take a deep breath of that fresh thyme oil, and embrace the quirky, unpredictable charm of a London summer!
Chaleureusement vôtre,
French Doggy’s
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