Cultivating your mini-farm at home is beneficial to your mental well-being and physical health. Not only does having responsibility and taking care of plants reduce stress, but also having nutritious herbs right at your backyard can make you healthier. For instance, half of the nutrients of a plant is lost 30 minutes after it was harvested. By having them right at your home, you can maximize the benefits of these plants.

Aside from this, it can also be beneficial for your pocket since you won’t have to go down to the market and buy these healthy greens. Because of this, you have decreased your carbon footprint by eliminating transportation while also saving money.

Raised garden beds in Utah can be an ideal way to plant these herbs because it’s a contained plant box. This means that it will less likely be affected by the surrounding environment, especially if plants and pests start to ensue. You won’t also be bound to tending the existing soil in your backyard because, for these beds, you can use a soil mix that you chose. As desired, you can have different beds for different types of herbs to be more organized and systematic.

Here are some herbs you can grow in your backyard:

1. Rosemary

This member of the mint family is an aromatic herb that can instantly elevate dishes. Fresh or dried leaves can be used in cooking, tea, and extracts. It is a rich source of iron, calcium, and vitamin B-6. Rosemary is also said to improve memory, reduce muscle pain, boost the immune system, and increase hair growth. It is also rich in antioxidants, which makes it beneficial to the immune system and blood circulation. Rosemary also contains carnosic acid that helps prevent macular degeneration by promoting eye health.

2. Parsley

Parsley is used for cooking and medicinal purposes to aid with bladder infections, kidney stones, gastrointestinal disorders, constipation, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses. It is also used by women to trigger menstrual flow. For skincare, parsley is used to lighten dark spots, moisturize the skin, and reduce inflammation for bites. Because of its strong scent, this herb is used in the cosmetics industry for soap and perfumes. In the food industry, it is usually used as a garnish and to balance out the flavors in stew.

3. Basil

If you’re a big fan of pesto and pizza Margherita, you will be more impressed by their main ingredient: Basil. Used in Italian and some Italian cuisines, basil has anti-inflammatory benefits while only containing 22 calories per 100 grams. Studies show that it can prevent cancer, has anti-aging benefits, and reduce the effects of stress by increasing anti-oxidants in the body. Basil can also reduce inflammation by 73% after 24 hours of treatment. It also contains vitamin A, vitamin K, vitamin C, magnesium, iron, potassium, and calcium.

Taking care of one’s health does not have to be intensive and expensive. Sometimes, the healthiest food sources can be within our reach. With a little patience and a green thumb, you can grow your cancer-fighting and antioxidant herbs in the backyard.