We all realize that aromatherapy begins with plants! But long before I had
ever heard the term 'aromatherapy' I, as well as most herb gardeners, were
practicing it in practical ways.
We planted creeping thyme in pathway cracks so we could appreciate its
soothing, warm smell as we walked on it. I placed lemon verbena and lemon
balm close to that pathway so I could brush against it for a quick lift from
the delightful fragrance. I 'attempted' to start a chamomile
lawn where I could sit in it...I only managed to finish about a four
foot patch, but I can still sit in it and make chamomile tea
from the flowers.
I plant herbs and flowers with the fragrances I most enjoy. The scent of
blue sage is one of my favorites, and is especially fragrant in autumn. I
place aromatic herbs in containers on the patios near the gate and house
entrance where guests always notice them.
I do use essential oils for therapeutic or aesthetic purposes.
But at first I didn't realize those little bottles of fragrant oils
originated in plants.
Now I know I can reap the same aromatherapeutic benefits while working and
relaxing in the garden.
For many of us our strongest childhood memories are associated with
smell. Smell is our most primitive sense. Memories recalled by smells
often feel more vivid and emotional than those associated with sights,
sounds and tastes. Unlike the other sense organs, the nose sends
information directly to the limbic system, a primitive part of the brain
concerned with memory and emotion.
The garden offers endless opportunities for us to enhance our sense of
smell...to calm or energize our spirits, and to visit our memories. By
planting a wide array of fragrant plants, including those known to have
aromatherapeutic effects, you can have new aromas with each change of
season.
The first step in designing an aromatherapy garden is to create a sense of
place...an outdoor garden room.
An enclosed space will encourage volatizing oils to linger in the air. This
kind of garden also has a sense of intimacy that's difficult to accomplish
in a more open garden.
*Use gravel, flagstones,rocks, etc., on a footpath to allow plenty of space
to plant low-growing herbs in the cracks.
*Curve the garden beds around the edges to soften the lines and create a
feeling of depth at the back of the garden.
Consider the way the fragrances will mingle in the air.
*Planting in containers enables you to have tender, fragrant plants in your
garden and in the winter, you can move them inside to enjoy them.
When you have an aromatherapy garden you not only enjoy the fragrant plants
outdoors but also have the convenience of easy harvest.....to bring them
indoors.
Some plants for the aromatherapy garden include;
Sweet basil
Holy Basil
Bayberry
Bay laurel
Bee balm
Chamomile
Clove pink
Eucalyptus
Fennel
Gardenia
Hop
Jasmine
Lavender
Lemongrass
Lily-of the-valley
Marjoram
Myrtle
Patchouli
Mints
Roses
Scented Geraniums
Rosemary
Sage
Valerian
Violet
Just imagine yourself sitting on a bench, eyes closed, breathing in the
fragrance of some of the world's most aromatic plants!
About the author:
Karen is an avid gardener and crafter. She and her husband have a Backyard Wildlife Habitat,
plus 'Fairy Gardens' where the children can learn about different herbs and hear Karen
read a story about the Garden Fairies and Flowers. For more information about Karen's
herb, aromatherapy and nature related discussion lists visit Karen's
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