Top 10 medicinal plants you can grow yourself

(NaturalNews) Plants have been used for thousands of years for medicinal purposes. Most medicine is derived from plants before they are laced with synthetic chemicals by pharmaceutical companies. You can cut the middle man out and grow medicinal plants in your very own garden. Freshly harvested herbs are inexpensive, are easy to grow, treat a wide range of illnesses and produce few side effects in comparison to over-the-counter drugs. Rather than consulting your nearest pharmacist at the first signs of illness, you can consult your nearest garden. Start cultivating your medicinal garden today with these powerful healing herbs.

1. Marigolds

Marigolds are orange and yellow garden flowers that you may already have in your backyard. They are loaded with antioxidants that can ward off free radicals, unstable molecules that damage DNA and cause cancer cells to proliferate. Researchers from Washington State University found that lutein, an antioxidant in marigold extract, can reduce tumors and prevent them from spreading in mice. In addition, marigolds work as an anti-inflammatory, which can provide relief to irritated skin, scrapes and burns. They also make an excellent pest repellent that paralyzes insects seconds after being consumed.

2. Basil

Basil is great for Italian cuisine, but it's also great for your health. It's an excellent source for beta-carotene, an organic compound that the body converts into vitamin A. The body needs vitamin A for healthy vision, cell growth and immune system function. Basil oil contains a compound called eugenol that can soothe swelling bones and joints in a similar way to how Advil and ibuprofen work. As an antibacterial, basil oil can inhibit bacteria from spreading even if they have become resistant to antibiotic drugs. You can transform both your garden and health with this amazing herb.

To learn more about growing your own plants to use as natural medicine, continue reading at Top10GrocerySecrets.com.