There are many commonly known Chinese herbs that are easy to grow in our climate, if not difficult to deter!  In this article we will discuss these herbs and skim the surface of their health benefits.

• Scallion or Spring Onion : Helps give the immune system a boost, great to eat when feeling the onset of a cold or flu with symptoms of runny nose, nasal congestion and abdominal pain.  Scallion will assist in relieving a cold by inducing sweating. 
• Garlic :  Incredible boost for the immune system as garlic is anti-microbial, anti-viral and anti-fungal.  With regular ingestion or topically, garlic can help prevent influenza, colds, and many types of bacterial and fungal infections.  Eat garlic regularly, raw or cooked.  For topical use, cut a raw garlic clove in half and rub it on the bottom of the feet for athlete’s foot, or if you feel a cold, flu or bronchitis coming on.  In general, the purple skinned garlic has a stronger action than white.
• Honeysuckle: Great at the onset of a cold with symptoms of fever, sore throat and headache. 
• Mint : Great for use at the onset of a cold with symptoms of fever, sore throat, cough, headache and red eyes.  Also, the Liver loves mint, so it is wonderful for emotional instability, the early stages of a rash, or as a very mild detox.
• Dandelion : The leaves contain beneficial amounts of Vitamin E and Omega 3 oils, serve as a detox, and are excellent for keeping the Liver running smoothly as well. 

It is commonly known that Mint and Dandelion are quite aggressive.  Some people prefer to grow mint in a pot to keep it from overtaking a flower bed or garden.  I like to grow mint where there are weeds so that the mint takes over the area instead.  For Dandelion, well… instead of fighting nature, enjoy the leaves in a smoothie, or sauteed with other greens.  Happy gardening!