Highlights in the Apothecary

A Collection of 12 Medicinal Herbs

1. Motherwort

(Leonurus cardiaca) — also known as Lion’s Tail, Throw-Wort

Motherwort has long been a revered herb in traditional Western herbalism, particularly for women’s health. Its feathery leaves and square stems mark it as a member of the mint family, and it is known for calming the heart — both emotionally and physically. The aerial parts (leaves and flowers) are typically harvested just before full bloom for medicinal use.

Traditionally used as a cardiac tonic, it has a special affinity for easing palpitations and tension tied to anxiety and hormonal shifts. It’s also regarded for its support during menstruation and postpartum recovery. Motherwort is most often used as a tea or tincture, where its bitter taste signals its deeply tonifying effects.

Flowering Time: Late spring to early summer (May–June)
Growing in Central Texas: Grows well with supplemental watering and partial shade; prefers moist, well-drained soil.

2. Dandelion

(Taraxacum officinale) — also called Lion’s Tooth, Puffball

Often dismissed as a weed, dandelion is in fact a potent healer and one of the most complete herbal tonics available. Every part of this common plant — root, leaves, and flowers — offers unique medicinal benefits, making it a staple in any apothecary.

The roots are prized for liver support and detoxification, while the leaves act as a natural diuretic rich in potassium. The bright yellow flowers are antioxidant-rich and can be used in soothing skincare. Dandelion is commonly taken as a tea, tincture, or infused in oil for external use.

Flowering Time: Early spring through fall (March–November, peaking in spring)
Growing in Central Texas: Thrives in poor soils and full sun; spreads easily and grows robustly.

3. Comfrey

(Symphytum officinale) — also known as Knitbone, Boneset

Comfrey is legendary for its ability to support tissue repair. Recognized by its broad, hairy leaves and bell-shaped purple flowers, this herb is typically used topically due to the presence of compounds that may impact the liver when taken internally.

The roots and leaves are rich in allantoin, a compound that encourages cell regeneration. It’s commonly used in poultices, salves, and compresses for bruises, sprains, and wounds. Though internal use is debated, comfrey remains a go-to for external preparations promoting healing.

Flowering Time: Late spring to mid-summer (April–July)
Growing in Central Texas: Grows well with rich soil, mulch, and regular watering; prefers partial shade.

4. Yarrow

(Achillea millefolium) — also known as Soldier’s Woundwort, Nosebleed Plant

Named after the warrior Achilles, who reportedly used it to treat his soldiers’ wounds, yarrow has a long tradition of use in first aid and women’s health. The feathery foliage and flat-topped flower clusters make it easy to identify in the wild.

The aerial parts are rich in volatile oils, tannins, and flavonoids, giving it antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties. It’s especially valued for promoting circulation, stopping bleeding, and regulating menstrual flow. Yarrow can be used as a tea, tincture, or infused oil for both internal and topical applications.

Flowering Time: Late spring to early fall (May–September)
Growing in Central Texas: Drought-tolerant and heat-loving; thrives with minimal maintenance.

5. Chickweed

(Stellaria media) — also called Starweed, Satin Flower

Delicate and demure, chickweed is a highly nourishing herb that often thrives in cool, moist environments. Its succulent leaves and tiny white star-shaped flowers are easily recognized, and its taste is mild and pleasant.

Used fresh or dried, chickweed is renowned for its cooling and soothing qualities, especially for itchy, inflamed skin. Internally, it supports the lymphatic system and digestion. It’s popular in salves, infused oils, teas, and even fresh in salads.

Flowering Time: Winter through early spring (January–April)
Growing in Central Texas: Best grown in cooler seasons with moist soil and shade; may go dormant in summer.

6. Holy Basil

(Ocimum tenuiflorum, also O. sanctum) — also known as Tulsi

Holy Basil, or Tulsi, is considered a sacred plant in Ayurvedic tradition and is deeply revered for its adaptogenic properties. It has a clove-like aroma and grows readily in warm climates, producing small purple or white blossoms.

Primarily the leaves and flowering tops are used. Holy Basil supports the body’s ability to adapt to stress, enhances clarity, and promotes overall vitality. It can be consumed as a tea, tincture, or in culinary dishes, where its peppery flavor stands out.

Flowering Time: Mid-summer through fall (June–October)
Growing in Central Texas: Heat-loving and easy to grow in full sun with well-drained soil.

7. Rosemary

(Rosmarinus officinalis) — also called Compass Plant, Dew of the Sea

More than just a kitchen staple, rosemary is a potent medicinal herb with a long history of use for mental clarity, memory, and circulation. It features needle-like leaves and woody stems, thriving in Mediterranean climates.

The leaves are used for their stimulating properties. Rosemary is excellent for invigorating the scalp, easing muscle pain, and enhancing focus. It can be used as a tea, tincture, or infused into oils and vinegars for topical or internal use.

Flowering Time: Late winter through spring (February–April), sometimes year-round
Growing in Central Texas: Thrives in full sun with good drainage; very drought-tolerant once established.

8. Lemon Balm

(Melissa officinalis) — also known as Balm Mint, Sweet Balm

With its soft, lemon-scented leaves and gentle nature, lemon balm is a soothing herb that shines in emotional and digestive support. It’s a member of the mint family and grows abundantly in gardens and pots.

The aerial parts are used fresh or dried. Lemon balm calms the nervous system, lifts the mood, and may ease viral infections like cold sores. It’s most often enjoyed as a tea, tincture, or infused in honey or oil.

Flowering Time: Late spring to early summer (May–June)
Growing in Central Texas: Prefers partial shade and consistent moisture; protect from intense afternoon sun.

9. Lavender

(Lavandula angustifolia) — also known as English Lavender, True Lavender

Lavender’s calming scent is instantly recognizable, and its lovely purple blossoms make it a favorite in both gardens and medicine cabinets. It has been used since ancient times to ease the mind and purify the body.

Flowers are most commonly used, offering both aromatic and medicinal benefits. Lavender supports sleep, reduces anxiety, and is a gentle antimicrobial. It’s ideal in teas, tinctures, essential oils, and bath blends.

Flowering Time: Late spring to summer (May–July)
Growing in Central Texas: Needs excellent drainage and full sun; can struggle in high humidity.

10. Mullein

(Verbascum thapsus) — also known as Velvet Dock, Lungwort

Mullein stands tall with its woolly leaves and yellow flower spike, often seen along roadsides and open fields. This herb is best known for its beneficial effects on the lungs and respiratory system.

The leaves and flowers are used, often dried. Mullein helps soothe coughs, loosen congestion, and calm inflamed mucous membranes. It’s typically taken as an herbal tea, smoked in blends, or used in infused oils for earaches.

Flowering Time: Summer (June–August)
Growing in Central Texas: Very well-suited to dry soils and hot, sunny locations; thrives in poor conditions.

11. Plantain

(Plantago major / P. lanceolata) — also known as Ribwort, Waybread

Not to be confused with the banana-like fruit, this plantain is a humble and powerful backyard remedy. Its lance-shaped or oval leaves can be found growing in compacted soil and footpaths.

Plantain leaves are rich in mucilage and astringent compounds, making them excellent for wound healing and drawing out toxins from bites or stings. It’s often applied as a fresh poultice, used in salves, or brewed into a soothing tea.

Flowering Time: Spring to early summer (April–June)
Growing in Central Texas: Grows easily in disturbed soil; thrives in lawns, gardens, and neglected corners.

12. Calendula

(Calendula officinalis) — also called Pot Marigold, Gold Bloom

Bright and cheery calendula flowers are more than ornamental — they are among the most beloved herbal allies for skin healing. These golden-orange blooms are harvested throughout the growing season and used fresh or dried.

The petals are rich in resins and flavonoids that promote skin repair, reduce inflammation, and fight infection. Calendula is often infused into oils, used in salves, or made into teas and tinctures for both topical and internal healing support.

Flowering Time: Cool season bloomer (October–May)
Growing in Central Texas: Best planted in fall and grown through spring; prefers rich soil and cooler temps.

Together, these twelve herbs form a foundation of natural wellness — time-tested and versatile, they each bring their own unique strengths to the home apothecary. These medicinal herbs are also a favorite for pollinators.