10 Immunity Boosting Herbs- Nature has every solution

What is immunity?

The ability of an organism to resist a particular infection by the action of specific antibodies is known as immunity.

A healthy and strong immune system is the most valuable thing a person can own. When it comes to keeping immunity strong, the use of natural remedies cannot be replaced by any medication in the world. Nature gifted humans with these remedies long ago but it seems that we have forgotten its worth due to modernization of lifestyle, busy schedule or we can say the change in mentality changed everything. Though, there are many people who depend upon these remedies for a healthy life.

Strengthen your immunity in a healthy way

 

A strong immunity is driven by various factors like; lifestyle, environment, psychological factors, age and the most important is our eating habits which have worsened due to lack of time and increased number of responsibilities and laziness. The desire to have everything done within seconds is leading us to become more lethargic and inactive. Any disbalance in these factors may lead to intimidating effects on one’s health. Like, stress can lead to a hormonal imbalance, polluted environment may lead to various problems like asthma, diarrhoea, pneumonia, etc. Bad eating habits lead to obesity, sleepiness, inactive body and much more.

Coming to the concern of our immunity, a few initial changes in all the factors which drive a strong immune system can lead to a healthy life, although we cannot undo the age factor.

The coronavirus pandemic has severely affected people all over the world. The Indian Prime Minister is not only requesting the citizens to stay inside and follow certain measures but is advising us to bring in the use of ayurvedic home remedies to boost our immunity against the novel coronavirus.

Below given are some herbs that can help increase immunity in a healthy way. As, you scroll down reading, you will find that these wonderful herbs not only build up a strong immune system but also have other wonderful benefits and effects on our overall health. So, let’s begin.

  1. Moringa (Moringa oleifera)

Vitamin C is the pivotal nutrient that our body needs to build strong immunity. Moringa contains 7 times more Vitamin C than oranges. Moringa tree is also known as the Vitamin tree. It has some other vital nutrients that strengthen cells, muscles, tissues and help the body to heal. In addition, it has high levels of amino acids, iron, potassium, and calcium. The ethanolic extracts of Moringa leaves have significant immunomodulatory effect on immune system. These help to invigorate cellular immune response and increases the level of WBC, lymphocyte, and neutrophil count in the body.

That is not all!

The antioxidant properties of Moringa help heal wounds faster, improve digestion, manage diabetes, improve cardiovascular health, and prevent neurodegenerative disorders. Also, it is enriched with anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties. It keeps deadly tumors away.

  1. Neem (Azadirachta indica)

Since ancient times, neem has been widely used as an immunity booster and is a native to India. Thanks to its anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties which keep the body safe from harmful pathogen attacks. It detoxes the blood by flushing out the harmful impurities which helps strengthen immunity. Oils are extracted from the leaves to add in traditional medicines while the leaves are dried and used as herbs in alternative medicine.

The antioxidant property prevents the damage of free radical attacks, reduces cancer and heart disease. Neem can be taken in the form of supplements also, but the best way to benefit from it is consuming it raw or as a decoction.

  1. Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum)

The holy basil is respected, used as an immunity booster and is one of the best herbs available for medicinal purposes. The leaves of this easily available plant are rich in phytonutrients, Eugenol (a bioactive compound that has anti-microbial, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties and reduces stress and plasma glucose levels, vitamins, and minerals.

Recent studies have indicated that tulsi can help slow down the growth of HIV cells and inhibit development of certain carcinogenic cells. It protects you from cold, cough and viral infections too.

The leaves can be infused with the morning tea.

  1. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Ginger has been used since ancient times against flu and common cold. It is great at preventing respiratory tract infections, powers up the immune system and kill viruses due to presence of an antioxidant -gingerol. It has been widely used for curing colds and coughs, nausea, asthma, morning sickness, arthritis, gastrointestinal problems and even depression. Ginger is enriched with anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and anti-cancerous properties.

Powdered ginger mixed with pulverized cloves, cardamom and caraway has been used for digestive ailments since ancient times. It can be added to meals or boiled in tea which turns out to be really delicious and is one of my favorite beverages during winters, yum!

  1. Amalaki (Phyllanthus emblica)

Bitter is better. Amalaki is also known as Amla, or Indian Gooseberry and is a popular herb in Ayurvedic medicine. It has large amount of Vitamin C which helps boost immunity. Vitamin C not only helps in stimulating the production of antibodies but is also a great source of antioxidants. It has strong anti-bacterial and astringent properties. Amla helps to increase WBC production in the blood.

What is more?

It helps fight common cold, improves eyesight, burns fat, beautifies hair, relieves pain, and improves skin.

  1. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)

Fenugreek is not only used as a herb (dried or fresh leaves), spice(seeds), vegetable (fresh leaves) but also as a condiment in artificial flavouring of maple syrup or in the production of steroids. Fenugreek seeds have a healthy nutritional profile, containing a good amount of fiber and minerals, including iron and magnesium. It acts as a natural antioxidant and strengthens the immune system. It has a rich source of vitamin E. The fenugreek fiber is used to cure constipation.

Furthermore, fenugreek

  • Increases breast milk production
  • Boosts testosterone production in men
  • May help control diabetes and blood sugar levels
  • Balances cholesterol levels
  • Has anti-burn properties

Herbal tea made with fenugreek, honey and lemon is a traditional remedy to treat fever. Sprouted seeds of fenugreek and microgreens are used in salads.

  1. Garlic (Allium sativum)

Garlic’s use was well documented by many major civilizations, including the Egyptians, Babylonians, Greeks, Romans, and Chinese. Scientists now know that most of its health benefits are caused by Sulphur compounds formed when a garlic clove is chopped, crushed or chewed. Perhaps the most famous of those is known as allicin. However, allicin is an unstable compound that is only briefly present in fresh garlic after its been cut or crushed.

Benefits:

Garlic is used to add flavor to almost every form of cuisine across the world and is popularly used in Chinese dishes and these dishes are totally incomplete without it.

  1. Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia)

Giloy is an Ayurvedic herb that has been used and advocated in Indian medicine for ages”, says Delhi-based Nutritionist Anshul Jaibharat. Its benefits and uses have even been approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). Many people include giloy in traditional kadhas as well. Here are some of the health benefits of giloy that you must know:

  • Boosts immunity
  • Treats chronic fever
  • Treats diabetes
  • Improves digestion
  • Fights respiratory problems
  • Treats arthritis
  • Reduces stress
  • Reduces signs of aging
  • reduces asthmatic conditions

  1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Ashwagandha is one of the most powerful herbs in Aurvedic healing and is considered to be nature’s gift to mankind. It is classified as a rasayana i.e. rejuvenation in Ayurveda and expected to promote physical and mental health. The Sanskrit term Ashwagandha translates to “smell of horse”, and rightly so. Traditionally, it is believed that a person who consumes this herbal medicine will gain horse-like strength and vitality.

Benefits:

  • Helps overcome stress and depression
  • Leaves help heal joint pain, skin sores and reduce swelling.
  • Increases stamina and energy
  • Protects brain cells
  • Presence of anti-cancerous agents
  • Supports sexual health
  • Effective in treating insomnia
  • Regulates hormonal balance
  • Strengthens hair
  • Provides youthful look
  • Reduces cortisol levels

  1. Triphala 

Triphala contains the antioxidative properties of three fruits- haritaki, bibhitaki and amla. Half a teaspoon of Triphala has about 10 calories. It consists entirely of carbohydrates and does not contain any fats or proteins. It is now touted as a natural remedy for a variety of health conditions as it is loaded with Vitamin A and C.

Triphala is good for dental health, reduces blood sugar levels, keeps a check on constipation, protects skin and increases collagen production and improves hair quality and growth.

 

THE BOTTOM LINE

Now we see that building a strong immunity and a healthy immune system is no rocket science. All you need to borrow is just a few ingredients from nature.

Although none of these suggestions can prevent COVID-19, they may reinforce your body’s defences against harmful pathogens. Eating right is a great start, and there are other things you can do to protect yourself from diseases. Remember, a good and healthy change always brings up excellent results. We not only recommend making changes in the diet but also advise to indulge in exercise and yoga. The sum of all these suggestions will surely help the body in one way or the other. Anything can be achieved with a will and determination.

  “Healthy citizens are the greatest                  asset any country can have.”

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Radiation Free Homes and Offices-10 Indoor Plants To Eliminate Radiations

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We live in a world ruled by technology and we are nothing but slaves to this world. Have you ever imagined how these beloved gadgets of yours are slowly killing you at your back?
Electric and magnetic fields (EMFs) are invisible areas of energy, often referred to as radiations. Excessive radiations are the root cause of various health ailments, like- allergies, risk of cancer, stress, and neurological disorders.

According to the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), EMFs are “possibly carcinogenic to humans.” The IARC believes that some studies show a possible link between EMFs and cancer in people.

Symptoms of EMF exposure

According to some scientists, EMFs can affect the body’s nervous system function and cause harm to cells. Cancer and unusual growths may be one symptom of very high EMF exposure. Other symptoms may include:

• headache
• tiredness and fatigue
• dysesthesia (an itchy sensation)
• changes in memory
• dizziness
• irritability
• restlessness and anxiety
• sleep disturbances, including insomnia
• depression and depressive symptoms
• loss of appetite and weight loss
• nausea
• lack of concentration
• changes in an electroencephalogram (which measures electrical activity in the brain)
• skin burning and tingling

But, we don’t yet know enough about its effects on human health and have insufficient evidence. Further research in the next years may clear all our doubts.

Well, there is a way out of this ferocious circle. How many of you are aware of t anti-radiation plants? Yes, you read it right. Some miraculous plants are a boon to today’s human era. As the name anti-radiation describes them well, these contribute by absorbing the electromagnetic radiations emitted by our dear gadgets and purify the air inside a room.
What’s more? Plants absorb carbon dioxide and return oxygen, boost immunity and metabolism. Keeping them around, help in lowering stress levels and headache frequency.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, every task has taken an online route which means more exposure to dangerous rays. So, place a plant in near vicinity to minimize the harmful effects.

List of plants that eliminate radiations

Let’s have a look at the list of plants that absorb these harmful radiations:

Stone lotus flower
This plant does not demand daily watering, twice in a week is more than sufficient. It gives your workplace an aesthetic look and a nice smell. It’s not only beautiful but also eliminates radiations. It is easy to care for.

Spider plant
It is effective in improving air quality by reducing the toxins to a considerable amount ( NASA recommended). It is highly in demand and gives a great look to the place. It is effective in absorbing nuclear radiations, speeds the recovery of patients, maintains indoor humidity, and reduces stress.

Aloe Vera
It is very well known for its skin, hair, and medicinal benefits. We bet you would have never thought that it could act as an anti-radiator. Well, this is the truth about this multi-specialty succulent.
it is a natural laxative, it can fight breast cancer, it can keep your skin hydrated and can lower your blood sugar levels.

Rubber plant
This beautiful indoor plant absorbs high-frequency radiations when kept beside your gadgets. It acts as an effective air purifying plant and is known for its radioactive properties. It requires less maintenance. other benefits;
1. decreased chances of getting allergies
2. promotes stomach health
3. natural analgesic

Cactus
In 2005, NASA conducted a home-based study and found that at least five plants commonly planted in-house at home or in offices can significantly absorb EMF radiations from electronic devices such as computers and phones – and cactus was one of them. Placing even a small cactus can reduce harmful radiation and purify the air. To elaborate;
1. it is an antiviral

2. has neuroprotective properties- a 2014 study found that it can protect nerve cells

3. high in antioxidants- a 2013 study found that the cactus is able to reduce oxidative stress.

4. regulates blood sugar levels- A 2012 study recommends that taking nopal cactus together with other diabetes medications helps regulate blood sugar.

5. It may reduce cholesterol- as suggested by a study, cactus can reduce cholesterol and also the LDL levels

6.can eliminate hangovers- A 2004 study proved that nopal cactus extract significantly reduces the severity of hangovers when consumed before drinking.

English Ivy
Ivy is one of the best absorbers of radiation available. It can absorb up to 90% of benzene in the air within 24 hours. It eliminates carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and formaldehyde. Make sure not to overwater your ivy. Its Flavonoids help in removing toxins from the body, tightening and strengthening blood vessels, reduce allergies and modulate enzymes to help your body.

Betel leaf plant
Because of its hydroxyl and superoxide scavenging properties, it can eliminate the radioactive components from the air and also it absorbs harmful gases too. what’s more;
1. it eases constipation
2. excellent analgesic
3. improves digestion
4. reduces respiratory problems


Asparagus fern
It has well-known antioxidant properties that help to defend against the damage caused by exposure to gamma radiation.
With a very wonderful fragrance, it has the power to absorb electromagnetic radiations in a room. Ferns have been ranked 9th in the air purifying list of NASA.

Mustard greens
You must have seen this plant going outdoors but it makes a perfect indoor plant too. It defends against the damage caused due to oxidative stress.
The amount of radiation will greatly reduce and you could breathe in pure air. They are also high in vitamin A, C, and beta-carotene. Hence, they are not only nutritional and delicious but also great at absorbing radiations.T

This plant may improve heart health, could boost immunity, may have anti-cancer effects, rich in disease-fighting antioxidants, and is an excellent source of vitamin K.

• Snake plant
This plant is known to be very effective in converting carbon dioxide into oxygen. It can improve your lung health. If you cannot find cactus, opt for this plant. It can be planted in any type of pot and requires less maintenance.
It absorbs CO2 at night also, is effective against allergies, and is Vastu and Feng shui friendly.

Radiations travel in a straight line, so keep that in mind when setting up your plant, and make sure not to block the path with other items. do not keep anything between your gadget and the plant as it may affect their ability to absorb the radiations.
Gift your family and employees a pure breathing experience by creating a radiation-free home and office.

We can play our part by leaving our phones in another room while sleeping and using ear buds or speaker mode when on a call. In addition to this, we recommend you to cut down the time spent with your gadgets and try spending a moment relishing nature.

Miraculous Insulin Benefits

Benefits of Insulin Plant

Costus igneus, commonly known as Insulin plant in India, belongs to the family Costaceae. Consumption of its leaves is believed to lower blood glucose levels, and diabetics who consumed the leaves of this plant did report a fall in their blood glucose levels.  A leaf–a-day, keeps diabetes away is the famous saying about this plant. Diabetes is a disease of metabolism, where body is not able to synthesis sufficient insulin or the blood cells stop responding to the insulin produced in the body. The leaves of insulin plant contain mostly of Corosolic Acid which is beneficial in controlling diabetic. Its leaves strengthen the beta cells of the pancreas in the human body, thus balancing the insulin levels.

A number of studies and researches have been done to assess the anti-diabetic properties and potential of the insulin Plant. Besides, it’s been demonstrated to have various pharmacological activities like hypolipidemic (cholesterol lowering), diuretic, antioxidant, anti- inflammatory and anti-cancerous.

What does the insulin plant look like?

The plant has large fleshy leaves. The undersides of the leaves are smooth and dark green with light purple shade. The leaves are spirally arranged around the stem. The maximum height reaches up to 2 feet. The dried leaves are used in making of ayurvedic medicines. The flowers are orange in color. Flowering occurs during the warm months. The species reproduce vegetative by rhizome and birds disperse seeds when they feed on the fruits. Propagation is by stem cutting.

Here are some benefits of Insulin

  1. Curing Diabetes

 Insulin is a magical cure for diabetes. Consumption of its leaves reduces blood sugar level.  Regular consumption of the leaves can aid in preventing the onset of chronic health complications developed as a result of diabetes. The plant is a magic wand for the ill-effects of diabetes.

  1. Natural Pre-biotic to Smooth Digestion

The leaves have high level of natural fructose which smoothen the colon functioning system. It improves digestion by acting as a natural pre-biotic and promotes the growth of good bacteria in the gut which aids in better nutrient absorption and digestion.

  1. Anti-Bacterial

The anti bacterial properties of Insulin help to kill the unwanted bacteria in the body. The methanolic extracts of flower and stem of C. pictus possess in vitro antioxidant activity against oxidative protein damage. It can protect your body from bacterial infections due to its antibacterial properties. So, say bye-bye to bacterial infections.

  1. Natural Antioxidant

The plant has antioxidant properties which help in destroying free radicals and protects body from several health disorders.  The antioxidant properties of the herb are concentrated in the methanolic extracts found in the rhizomes and leaves of the plant.

  1. Liver Illness

Liver dysfunction can lead to many disorders. It is very important to take care of your liver through your diet. Insulin leaf consumption will help to improve the health of the liver by eroding the poison slowly out from the liver. As the plant can break down the fat deposits and unnecessary toxins in the liver, it can treat liver problems and keep your liver healthy.

  1. Anti- inflammatory

Leaves promote smooth airflow in lungs. Thus, help to alleviate the symptoms of asthma and bronchitis and also aids in curing sore throat. Its potion can be consumed in winters as well to keep the common cold away.

  1. Kidney Health

Insulin plant has sodium and water retention capacity and diuretic property. Hence, it can improve the health of your both bladder and kidney by increasing urination rate. The increased urination rate prevents the development of kidney stones which can cause severe urination problems in the long run if not treated early.

  1. Immunity Enhancer

 

The changes in our lifestyle have made us much more sensitive to various elements which are constantly leading to a decrease in immunity level. This can be prevented to some extent by use of this plant. The antioxidant properties of the herb are effective in improving your immune system. It removes the toxins such as free radicals. Regular consumption can improve the immune system and shield your body from any illness.

 

  1. Blood Pressure Reducing

Hypertension has become very common now days due to our unhealthy diet intake. Fatty foods lead to increase in the blood pressure and can cause damage our body. Insulin herb is known to turn down hypertension. Regular consumption of the herb will aid in reducing high levels of blood pressure and calming the heart.

  1. Cancer Prevention

Preventing is always better than cure. Some studies showed that the Insulin plant has anti-proliferative and anti-cancerous properties. So, it can prevent cancer by killing bad cells and you can stop fearing cancer.

  1. Cholesterol Reducing

 

It also can reduce cholesterol levels in the blood. And thereby, prevent cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, it minimizes bad cholesterol and rises up the good cholesterol.

 

CAUTION: Pregnant women and lactating mothers should avoid the consumption of Insulin plant as it affects the hormonal balance.

 

Want to grow your own Insulin plant? Subscribe the newsletter for my next blog on its plantation.

 

 

Why Vertical Garden? (Need of Hour)

  1. Where can Vertical Garden be grown?
  2. Why to install a vertical garden
  3. Food Security
  4. Physiological Benefits
  5. Environment Benefits
  6. Economic Benefits

Is your love for gardening fading away due to limited space in your high rise apartment or your home? Do not worry!! Vertical gardening is the solution for your problem. Vertical gardening is a virtuous recourse for people who want save space; these are easy to maintain as they are easy to reach without bending; a large diversity of plants can be maintained within it.

Where can these be grown? 

Car parking, inside office buildings, along lane ways or rooftops.

why to install a vertical garden

No doubt, these gardens have an aesthetic merit but most supremely they do good to the environment as well. Here are some of the benefits;

FOOD Security


• Due to the corona virus crisis, the fear of food shortage is now residing in everyone’s mind. We are dependent on farmers for the same but we can grow most of our food in our homes as a safety measure. Vertical gardens produce healthy and clean harvest.
• Small fruits, vegetables and herbs can be grown very easily without the use of pesticides.
• It is a safe way of gardening as it minimizes the risk of pest attack.
• Food grown vertically is much prettier than the crops grown on ground. The fruits grow straight when trellised, since gravity pulls them down. Plus, there won’t be an ugly yellow spot on heavier vegetables and you get gorgeous vegetables.

Environmental Benefits


• Vertical gardening helps to reduce the carbon dioxide footprint of a building by filtering pollutants and carbon dioxide out of the air which also benefits those living nearby due to improved air quality.
• Exterior wall vertical gardens also help to reduce heat absorption, which can result in significant energy savings in areas where people rely on air–conditioning during the warmer parts of the year.
• These gardens can significantly help to reduce Urban Heat Island Effect and smog.
• The waste produced in our house can be reused for the same, such as- plastic bottles, old shoe organizers, baskets, broken ladder, etc.
• Indoor plants improve inner air quality by removing VOCs (Volatile organic compounds) and other harmful toxins.
• It acts as natural sound proofing barrier as the vegetated surface blocks high frequency sounds.
• Create a microclimate– you can insulate your home from heat, air pollution or noise by designing a living natural shield. This also helps to regulate temperature.

Physiological Benefits


Professor Virginia Lohr of Washington State University found in a study, that plants reduce the physical signs of stress. Dr. Lohr discovered that people working in an environment with plants present were 12% more productive and less stressed than those who worked in an environment without plants.

There are numerous other studies that highlight the positive impact of green spaces upon human well being. Honeyman 1987 found that buildings that feature and promote access to vegetation have a greater positive human health impact than those without. Green buildings have even been shown to increase post-operative recovery rates in medical facilities .

Economic Benefits


• Increase foot traffic in retail spaces as green walls create spaces that people want to spend time in.
• Provide thermal insulation.
As green walls provide insulation to buildings there is less demand upon power, saving cash as well as reducing the amount of polluting by-products that are released into the atmosphere.
• Vertical gardens both insulate and cool buildings, providing a kind of safety blanket that protects the building from the elements, saving money on repairs in the long run.
• Vertical gardens require the expertise of professionals from a variety of disciplines including landscape architects, architects, irrigation consultants and more helps create local jobs.

Vertical Gardening Techniques

Watch more on vertical gardens

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Growing Thyme

My last blog discussed about the benefits of thyme. After reading them who would not think of growing it in their own garden and get benefitted from its medicinal properties. Thyme is a marvelous herb with pleasurable, pungent, clover flavor best grown in summers.

The very first thing to contemplate when purchasing Thyme is that there are two main types of it which are normally used: Ornamental and Culinary. The three most common types of culinary thyme are: Caraway, French and Lemon which add wonderful and satisfying taste (enough to excite your taste buds) to your summer soups, grilled meats and vegetables.
Culinary thyme is a hardy perennial that is evergreen. It is drought- tolerant and pollinator- friendly. You can get the best of its flavor in the summers.

Planting

Where: thyme loves to thrive in full sun and heat. If growing it indoors, plant it near a sunny window. For a head start, plant the cuttings of thyme indoor for 6 to 10 weeks as it’s a little hard to grow thyme from seeds because of slow and uneven germination. Make sure your soil is not too rich in organic matter and is slightly sandy.

When: plant the cuttings after the ground temperature reaches 21 degree Celsius. This is usually 2 to 3 weeks before the last spring.

Propagate by cuttings: it is the easiest way to plant your thyme. Clip a 4 inch cutting from the very tip of a stem, apply rooting hormone on the exposed portion of the stem and plant it in sterile sand. Roots will make an appearance within about 6 weeks. Transfer to a small pot and let the root ball formation take place. You can later transfer it to a large pot if needed else, directly to your garden.

Cultivating
Sun: planting should be done in well- drained soil with an optimal pH of 6.0 or 8.0. organic fertilizer can be added in the early spring.
Water: these require less watering but thorough watering only when the soil is dry.
Spacing: the young plants should be placed 12 to 24 inches apart, depending on the variety you are growing. Their maximum height is 6 to 12 inches.
Companion plantingit can be grown near tomatoes, strawberries cabbage. Also, it can be planted near rosemary as it requires similar weather and watering conditions as of Thyme.

Harvesting
In order to leisure its best flavor, harvest thyme just before it flowers as flowers indicate maturity. It tastes great both fresh and dried. Clip a 5 to 6 inches of growth with scissors, leaving the tough, woody parts. Avoid washing clean leaves as it may rip off some of the essential oils. Regular pruning not only encourages more growth, but also promotes a more rounded shape.

Trouble shooting thyme
Pests: Spiders, aphids, mealy bugs may attack thyme. You can easily knock them out with a strong stream of water or by spraying insecticides.

Diseases: thyme is vulnerable to root rot and fungal diseases. Steer clear of root rot by keeping plants out of wet areas and planting them too close to each other. Botrytis root can be treated with a fungicide.

Preserving and storing thyme
• Refrigeration: cover the fresh thyme in a damp paper towel over wrapped in plastic and refrigerate. Keep it for 1 or 2 weeks in the vegetable crisper.

• Drying: leaves can be dried by clipping the stems and hanging them upside down in a warm, airy place for 3 to 6 days.

• Freezing: put the clippings in sealable plastic bag.

• Storing: dried leaves can be easily stored in an airtight container.

Care:
Water deeply only when the soil is completely dry.
Pruning is necessary as it helps in continuous and healthy growth of the plant. It should be done back in the spring and summer. The more you trim, the more it grows attaining a good shape.
The best flavor you get is from the young plants, so divide the 3 to 4 year old plants.
Protect the plant from freezes with a mulch of chopped leaves, straws or evergreen branches.

Check back on next Thursday to find out its best ways of usage.

By:
Arshdeep Kaur Longia

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