Medicinal Herb Plant Update: 8/4/2024 Victory Garden Boys, Stanton, KY

We are preparing to open our new nursery location near Natural Bridge and the Red River Gorge. At our new location we have plenty of space to pursue our passion for Medicinal herbs which we will start to offer to the public in the Spring of 2025.

In August, while many herbs in Kentucky may have passed their prime visual appeal, they are at their peak for medicinal uses. Below are the favorites of our medicine woman from around her house. Her favorites of the forest will be posted in another post, including Blue Lobelia and Mayapple (I know she doesn't care about Mayapple, but it is a popular herb). Also, Dandelion tincture is one of her staples, but it is not shown here as it is a common weed.

Our medicine woman is a retired nurse, she doesn’t sell her tinctures and only supplies family and close friends in need. She is also a Chirstian woman, she believes faith is important to healing.

1. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)

 Known for its immune-boosting properties, Echinacea is a staple in herbal medicine. Dotty particularly values this herb for its ability to fight off colds and infections.

 

2. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

A soothing herb, Lemon Balm is cherished for its calming effects and pleasant lemon scent.

3. Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium)

 Often used for headache relief, Feverfew is a powerful medicinal herb.

4. Bee Balm (Monarda didyma)

Known for attracting pollinators, Bee Balm also has medicinal uses.

5. Passion Flower and Fruit (Passiflora incarnata)

Passion Flower is valued for its calming effects and unique fruit.

6. Paracress (Toothache Plant) (Acmella oleracea)

Known for its numbing effect, Paracress is commonly used for dental issues.

7. Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis)

Hyssop is often used for respiratory issues and as a digestive aid.

 

8. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

While famous for its effect on cats, Catnip is also beneficial for humans.

9. Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)

Elderberry is celebrated for its immune-boosting properties.

10. St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)

This herb is well-known for its mood-lifting effects, it is ‘Nature’s Prozac’.

11. Red Chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia)

Red Chokeberry is rich in antioxidants and beneficial for overall health. A lot of excitement recently around potential cancer fighting properties.

12. Purslane (Portulaca oleracea)

Purslane is highly nutritious and medicinal. It is believed to have a positive impact on Autism.

13. Burdock (Arctium lappa)

Burdock is valued for its detoxifying properties.

14. Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum biflorum)

Known for its soothing effects, Solomon's Seal is a versatile herb.

15. Spearmint (Mentha spicata)

Spearmint is a popular herb for its refreshing taste and medicinal benefits.

16. Peppermint (Mentha × piperita)

Peppermint is well-known for its cooling and soothing properties.

17. Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)

Mullein is primarily used for respiratory issues.

The Importance of Medicinal Herbs in the Red River Gorge

The Red River Gorge, near the Natural Bridge in Kentucky, provides an opportunity for hikers and nature lovers to explore the beauty of Kentucky.

We encourage all, including hikers, preppers, plant enthusiasts and those who seek a particular solution to an illness to explore medicinal herbs.

My first tinctures were Rosemary and Hot Pepper for general health and cardiovascular health. Although I do not make herbal teas regularly, I load up on Willow bark tea whenever I feel a lot of pain coming on or when I get worried about my prostate health.

Explore nature and have fun! Always consult with a medical professional before using any medicinal herbs.