Making Magic with Calendula, Oregano, Lemon Balm and Lemon Mint
Summer fun has just begun! The summer garden is in full swing. Now that our plants are producing in quantities enough for us to have some plant material for ourselves, we can let our imaginations run wild with thoughts of various herbal creations and preparations.
If you are new to gardening, or just wondering how to use some of the things you grow that aren't the usual tomato-and-potato type of crops, today I am going to share some of my absolute favorite, most fun ways to work with herbs.
This summer, I have over 20 types of herbs, vegetables, and flowers growing. Everything will have its time to shine throughout the season! But for the moment, I have turned my focus to Calendula, Oregano, Lemon Balm, and Lemon Mint.
🌼 Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
I have been an esthetician for over six years now, and in that time, I’ve seen the massive popularity that Calendula has gained in the skincare world—and for good reason! It is an absolute powerhouse for the skin, but its versatility goes way beyond topical products.
In the Kitchen: Not only can you infuse these gorgeous flowers into nourishing body oils, but I also use both the flowers and the leaves to make a delicious, soothing herbal tea.
A Bathhouse Ritual: For a truly immersive experience with Calendula, pick a handful of fresh flowers and place them in a jar. Fill the jar with water and let it sit for about 24 hours to cold-infuse. When you're ready, add this vibrant infusion to a warm salt bath (or any relaxing bath ritual). As you soak, the calendula will mix with the steam, opening and invigorating your pores while deeply comforting your skin.
🌿 Oregano
Most people think of pizza or pasta sauce when they see oregano, but this robust herb is capable of so much more. Years ago, when I worked at The Vitamin Shoppe, oregano oil was constantly flying off the shelves. People flocked to it for its potent antiviral and antiseptic properties.
How I’m using it: While it makes a delicious fresh seasoning for summer dishes, I’m harvesting and drying plenty of it right now to build up my home apothecary for immune support when the seasons shift.
🍋 Lemon Balm & Lemon Mint
These two bright, fragrant herbs are sharing a segment today because they are both incredible aromatics that bring so much joy to the garden. Walking past them and brushing against their leaves releases a refreshing, uplifting citrus burst that instantly shifts the energy around them.
How I’m using them: Both of these are absolutely delicious when brewed into fresh summer teas. Beyond their taste, they are some of my favorite allies for calming and soothing the nervous system. When summer days get busy or overstimulating, a fresh steep of these balms is the perfect way to ground down.
Deepening the Roots
Every year, I find myself pulled deeper into my garden through the relationships I build with plants and nature. From soothing my skin to supporting my nervous system, I have discovered connections with the earth that have helped me through so many parts of life. Gardening isn't just about growing food; it’s about creating a space for mutual healing.
I want to hear from you! What are you growing this season, and what are some of your favorite ways to work with your plant materials? Leave a comment below and let’s chat!
Happy harvesting,
Briana ‘herballybri’ Scott