There’s something deeply grounding about growing plants that heal.
Our first attempts at growing apothecary plants began with calendula. We infused the blossoms in oil, then added the oil to salves and balms destined for holiday giving. Soon, we started using these products ourselves—for everything from sunburns to chapped lips. That’s when we realized the power of apothecary plants.
This guide offers simple steps to help you begin your own apothecary journey: planning, planting and caring for medicinal herbs so you can create a garden that supports your own personal wellness and the natural world. If you decide to share what you create, all the better. Almost everyone can benefit from homegrown plants.
What is an apothecary garden?
An apothecary garden is a space where gardeners tend medicinal plants for their healing properties. Once central to monasteries and traditional medicine, these gardens provided natural remedies for everyday ailments.
Today, apothecary gardens are being revived in backyards, balconies and community spaces. They offer a simple way to support wellness while reconnecting with nature. More than practical, they invite us to slow down, observe the seasons and care for both our bodies and the Earth.
A word about plant medicine
A substantial amount of research has been done into plants for healing, though the depth and quality varies depending on the plant, its traditional use and the funding available for clinical trials. Some medicinal plants, such as St. John’s Wort, have been studied extensively. Others have centuries of traditional use but limited large-scale trials. Where available, we’ve linked to studies for further reading.
While plant medicine can be a powerful ally for everyday wellness, it isn’t a substitute for professional medical care when needed. We use our apothecary plants to support wellness with careful consideration for our own individual sensitivities and needs. Like many natural regimens, plant medicine works best as part of a larger, holistic strategy.
What we do know is that some herbs can safely support common health concerns like stress, digestion, sleep and immunity—especially when used with care and respect for their strengths and limits. This includes considering possible interactions with other supplements or medicines and carefully consulting professionals when necessary.
Planning your design
A herb spiral is a common element in permaculture gardens. Source: istockphoto.com.
A successful apothecary garden starts with choosing the right spot. Most medicinal herbs love full sun and well-drained soil, so look for a space that gets six to eight hours of sunlight each day. If space is limited, raised beds or containers work just as well.
When planning your design, think about how you want the garden to function. You might group plants by use—like teas or immune support—or follow a traditional layout. Whichever you choose, keep paths wide enough for easy access, and consider planting near your kitchen or outdoor workspace to make harvesting convenient.
Related: Grow Your Own Herbal Teas
Here are some of our favorite traditional designs:
- Monastic or wheel garden
Inspired by medieval monastery gardens, this design features a central focal point (like a sundial or birdbath) with pathways radiating outward, dividing the space into pie-shaped sections. This design is ideal for organizing plants by function or season. - Cottage garden
This ever popular design features a relaxed, informal layout with herbs mingled among flowers and vegetables. Its style favors beauty and abundance, encouraging biodiversity and a natural feel. Read more about designing a cottage garden. - Raised bed garden
Perfect for small spaces or poor soil, raised beds offer easy access and great drainage. Arrange beds in rows or blocks, and consider grouping by use (e.g. calming herbs, digestive aids). - Botanical “chessboard” grid
Designed more like a teaching garden, this layout uses orderly rows or grids with labels for each plant. Helpful for learning, record-keeping, or sharing your garden with others, the chessboard garden can also be a unique feature in a larger design. - Wild or permaculture-inspired garden
This design mimics nature with layered planting and self-sustaining systems. It emphasizes companion planting, pollinator support, and minimal maintenance once established. Many permaculture gardens incorporate herb spirals to maximize growth.
Soil needs for apothecary plants
Most common medicinal herbs are surprisingly low-maintenance when it comes to soil. Many, like lavender, thyme and yarrow thrive in dry, low-fertility soils—conditions that mimic their Mediterranean or prairie origins. Overly rich or damp soil can lead to weak growth and may even cause root rot in drought-tolerant herbs.
In general, well-draining soil with moderate organic matter is ideal for most apothecary plants. If you’re working with heavy clay, consider adding sand or compost to improve structure and drainage. Raised beds or containers with a loose, well-aerated soil mix can also be a great option.
Many apothecary herbs prefer a mildly acidic to neutral pH, though a few—like marshmallow—tolerate richer, moister conditions. Overall, avoid overwatering and overfeeding—less is often more when it comes to growing herbs and other healing plants.
Choosing your plants
When starting your apothecary garden, begin with a handful of easy-to-grow herbs that suit your climate and wellness goals. Think about the remedies you’re most likely to use—such as soothing teas or herbs for digestion—and choose plants accordingly.
Familiar herbs like chamomile, lavender, peppermint and calendula are great for beginners and offer a wide range of uses. As your garden grows, you can add more specific or locally adapted plants.
Always research how each herb is used, what part of the plant is harvested, and how it’s prepared. Some herbs are not safe for everyone—especially during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, or for those with high blood pressure or on medication. When in doubt, consult a trusted healthcare provider before use.
Here are some starter plants to consider:
Chamomile
A gentle herb, chamomile is believed to ease indigestion and support sleep. Studies into the healing properties of chamomile have also demonstrated promise with healing after dermabrasion treatments. Chamomile is often made into teas or compresses.
Note: Use with caution if allergic to ragweed.
Lavender
Known for its calming scent, lavender has shown potential in skin healing when added to balms or oils, though oils can be too strong for some people if not diluted. A preparation of lavender compounds has also been shown to have positive results on anxiety levels. Lavender is also common in teas, salves, essential oils and for culinary purposes. Read more about cooking with lavender.
Echinacea
This is another plant with studies behind its efficacy. It’s currently used to boost the immune system and shorten the likelihood and duration of colds or infections. Roots and aerial parts are used in tinctures or teas.
Note: Not suitable for those with autoimmune conditions.
Calendula
One of our favorites, calendula has been used as a powerful skin-healing flower in salves, creams and washes thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. Several studies found some benefits for wound healing, with one finding increased healing on caesarian scars in postpartum women. Calendula also makes a bright addition to the garden.
Yarrow
Traditionally used to stop bleeding, support circulation and reduce fever, yarrow can be made into poultices or teas. A 2014 study found yarrow tea reduced period pain in study subjects, while another study from 2015 found gargling with a yarrow distillate solution significantly reduced oral mucositis, a side effect of chemotherapy.
Note: Avoid during pregnancy as it may stimulate the uterus.
Peppermint
Long cherished for its pleasant taste and its cooling, invigorating effects, peppermint is thought to help ease nausea, bloating and headaches. Studies suggest topical peppermint essence (Mentha piperita) may help speed wound healing and reduce wound inflammation. We grow enough peppermint for year-round tea, while also using it for compresses and essential oils. Since mint plants can be aggressive, we grow ours in containers and raised beds.
Note: May aggravate reflux in some people.
Lemon balm
Calming and antiviral, lemon balm is often used to relieve stress and insomnia. Its pleasant taste makes it perfect for soothing teas. A meta-analysis of studies found lemon balm could be effective at relieving anxiety and depression in acute settings, while another noted improvements in depression and anxiety among type 2 diabetics. More research is needed in this area. Since lemon balm is another plant known to be aggressive, we advise planting in raised beds or containers.
Note: Use cautiously with thyroid conditions.
Thyme
In addition to its culinary uses, thyme is known to be a strong antimicrobial herb, helpful for coughs, colds and respiratory infections. Several studies have looked at thyme’s use as an inhalant to relieve respiratory-related symptoms of COPD and COVID-19. We brew up as tea or use thyme oil in steam inhalations.
Valerian
This deeply relaxing herb has long been used for sleep issues and anxiety. Research indicates that valerian may help with sleep quality, but not necessarily other sleep issues. Prepare the roots in tinctures or capsules.
Note: May cause vivid dreams or grogginess in some; avoid mixing with sedatives.
Marshmallow Root
While more of a commitment to grow, marshmallow soothes sore throats, dry coughs and irritated digestive tracts. Surveys support this use when marshmallow root is prepared as a syrup or added to lozenges. Research has also linked marshmallow root with reductions in eczema and yeast infections. If preparing as a cold infusion or tea, marshmallow is gentle and moisturizing.
Note: May slow absorption of medications.
Garden care
Source: istockphoto.com
Keeping your apothecary garden healthy and productive doesn’t have to be complicated. As noted above, most medicinal herbs prefer simple growing conditions with minimal fuss. Start by building moderate soil with some compost or well-aged organic matter.
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between watering, especially for drought-tolerant herbs. Regularly remove weeds by hand to reduce competition and prevent pests. Companion planting can also help deter pests naturally.
Prune your herbs annually to encourage fresh growth and prevent them from becoming woody or overgrown. Harvest plants thoughtfully—picking in the morning after dew dries but before midday heat preserves the highest concentration of active compounds (more on this below). Finally, practicing seasonal care like mulching in winter will keep your garden thriving year after year.
Harvesting
Harvesting your herbs at the right time and handling them carefully is key to preserving their healing qualities. Whether you’re gathering leaves, flowers or roots, timing matters—usually just before or during peak bloom for above-ground parts and after the growing season for roots. Here are some more specific notes about best harvest parts and times.
| Medicinal Plant | Part to Harvest | When to Harvest | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chamomile | Flowers | Just before full bloom | Harvest in the morning after dew dries |
| Lavender | Flower buds | When buds fully formed but before opening | Cut stems with flowers for drying |
| Echinacea | Roots and aerial parts | Roots in fall; leaves in summer when in bloom | Harvest roots after 2–3 years of growth |
| Calendula | Flowers | When petals fully open | Pick regularly to prolong blooming |
| Yarrow | Flowers and leaves | Before full bloom | Avoid harvesting during flowering peak |
| Peppermint | Leaves | Just before flowering | Harvest regularly to prevent bolting |
| Lemon balm | Leaves | Before flowering | Cut multiple times in the growing season |
| Thyme | Leaves and stems | Before flowering | Trim often to keep bushy |
| Valerian | Roots | Late fall, after foliage dies back | Requires 2+ years of growth |
Common processing methods
After harvesting your plants, you can dry or process your herbs fresh depending on their use. Most medicinal preparations use herbs prepared in one of the following ways:
Herbal infusions (teas)
To make an infusion, steep dried or fresh herbs in hot water, usually for 10–20 minutes. Longer steeps (4+ hours) are used for mineral-rich herbs. Generally speaking, use leaves and flowers (the soft parts) when making infusions.
Examples: Chamomile, lemon balm, peppermint
Decoctions
Simmer tougher plant parts (roots, bark, seeds) in water for 15–45 minutes. Strain off and store for up to 48 hours in the fridge.
Examples: Valerian, marshmallow or echinacea root
Tinctures
Tinctures are herbal extracts made by soaking herbs in alcohol (or glycerin for alcohol-free versions) for several weeks. They have a long shelf life and are usually quite concentrated. Most herbs are suitable for tinctures, especially those used in small doses.
Examples: Echinacea, valerian, or yarrow
Infused oils
Infuse herbs in oils (like olive or jojoba) when you wish to use them externally. Gently heat oil or infuse over 5-10 days to extract skin-healing properties. These oils make an excellent base for salves and balms.
Examples: Calendula, lavender, yarrow
Drying and storing
Air-drying or dehydrating herbs is probably the easiest way to preserve them for future use. Hang small bundles upside down or dry in trays away from light and moisture. Store in labeled glass jars in a cool, dark place to use later in teas, tinctures, infused oils and poultices.
Herbs for healing
Growing your own apothecary garden can be surprisingly simple—and deeply satisfying. As we’ve learned from tending our own plants, even a few well-chosen herbs offer beauty, grounding, and practical healing right outside your door.
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