Price: $14.86 - $9.99 (as of Feb 14, 2026 20:06:36 UTC – Details)
Product description
Features pharmacy-related words highlighting precision, focus, and healthcare service. Great for celebrating National Pharmacy Technician Day or team appreciation moments. Combines an acrylic front and distressed wooden base for professional display. Compact and clean: Measuring 4.9 x 4.2 x 0.4 inches, great for shelves, counters or desktops. Encourages workplace recognition and enhances pharmacy counter décor.
For me, gardening is about creating an ecosystem in your backyard that works with nature, not against it—healthy soil, thriving plants, and space for beneficial insects to do their thing.
As the spring is around the corner, it’s time to get your gardening arsenal ready to plant ornamentals, veggies and herbs.
While perennials attract beneficial pollinators, veggies turn your space into a source of fresh food, and herbs add fragrance, flavor, and even natural pest control.
You can grow herbs almost anywhere, but the magic happens when you slip them between flowers and veggies.
The strong aroma of some herbs can help deter pests. At the same time, their flowers attract pollinators and beneficial insects, which means your garden begins to support and protect itself in the most natural way.
In this write-up I’ll share a list of herbs that you can grow in spring.
Why is Spring the best time to plant herbs?
Spring provides the perfect environment for seed germination. The warm soil, longer days, and steady moisture give young seedlings a comfortable place to get started.
Instead of battling tough weather, herbs can put their energy into growing strong roots and plenty of leafy growth.
By the time summer rolls in, they’re settled, tougher, and ready for you to harvest again and again.
Starting in spring really does make the whole season feel easier and more rewarding.
19 Best Herbs to Plant in Spring
You can grow them in pots, raised beds or along the path ways, they are beginner friendly, don’t ask for much space, and reward you quickly with flavor, fragrance, and flowers for pollinators.
Plant them now, and you’ll be harvesting fresh snips sooner than you think.
1. Basil
Basil is a warm-loving herb, and spring is the perfect time to plant it once frost is no longer a risk. As the days get brighter and temperatures rise, it begins to grow quickly. Place it somewhere that gets plenty of sunlight and protection from strong winds, and it will reward you with lots of fresh leaves.
Basil grows best in soil that is rich and drains well. Adding compost before planting helps the plant get a strong start. The roots like moisture, but they do not like sitting in wet, heavy soil.
Water your basil regularly so the soil stays slightly damp, especially when the weather gets warmer. Pinch off the tips to help the plant grow fuller and produce more leaves. If you allow a few flowers to grow, they can attract bees while you still harvest plenty for cooking.
2. Mint
Mint is one of the easiest herbs you can grow, and it quickly fills the air with a fresh, cool scent. Plant it in spring and it will settle in fast, sending up new leaves almost right away. It grows happily in beds, but many gardeners prefer containers because it loves to spread.
This herb does well in ordinary garden soil as long as it drains reasonably well. You don’t need anything fancy. A bit of compost mixed in at planting time will help it grow thicker and greener.
Mint likes steady moisture, so water when the top of the soil starts to feel dry. Trim it often to keep the plant bushy and prevent it from getting too tall or leggy. The more you cut, the more it grows, which means plenty for teas, cooking, and garnishes.
3. Thyme
Think of thyme as the low-maintenance friend in the garden. Plant it in spring, give it sunshine, and it mostly takes care of itself. It stays small, smells wonderful when you brush past it, and works beautifully along edges or in rock gardens.
Weather: Likes mild spring temperatures and lots of sun.
Soil: Must drain well; sandy or slightly dry soil is perfect.
Water: Light watering is enough. Too much can harm the roots.
Once it’s growing, snip what you need for cooking and let some flowers appear for the bees.
Parsley grows best in the cool, mild weather of spring. It enjoys a spot with full sun or light shade and appreciates temperatures that are not too hot. These comfortable conditions help the plant produce steady, healthy leaf growth.
This herb prefers soil that stays slightly moist but not waterlogged. Mixing in compost at planting time will help it grow fuller and stronger over the season.
Water when the top of the soil feels dry. When harvesting, cut the outer stems first and let the center continue to grow. Regular picking encourages the plant to keep making new leaves.
5. Cilantro
Cilantro prefers the cool weather of spring and grows best before temperatures become too hot. Give it a sunny spot or light shade, and it will grow quickly and produce plenty of fresh leaves.
It likes soil that drains well but still holds some moisture. Mixing compost into the bed before planting will help the plant stay healthy and leafy.
Water whenever the top of the soil begins to dry. Harvest by cutting the outer leaves first. If the weather gets hot, the plant may flower and go to seed faster.
6. Rosemary
Rosemary enjoys mild spring weather and loves a bright, sunny location. It is a hardy herb that can handle dry air and will slowly grow into a strong, woody plant.
This herb needs soil that drains very well. Heavy or wet soil can damage the roots, so adding sand or planting in raised beds or pots often works best.
Water lightly and allow the soil to dry a bit between watering. Once the plant is established, you can snip sprigs whenever you need them. Regular trimming helps keep it neat and encourages new growth.
7. Chives
Chives are a hardy perennial herb that performs very well when planted in spring. They tolerate cool temperatures and resume active growth as soon as the soil begins to warm.
A location with full sun will produce the strongest plants, though partial shade is also acceptable.
They prefer fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Consistent moisture supports tender leaf production, but the roots should never remain in standing water.
Regular cutting promotes continuous new growth. If allowed to bloom, the purple flowers are highly attractive to pollinators.
8. Dill
Dill is a fast-growing annual herb that establishes quickly in the mild conditions of spring.
It grows best in full sun and cooler temperatures, which help delay early flowering. Because of its height, a sheltered position can prevent stems from bending in strong winds.
The plant thrives in loose, well-draining soil. Overly rich soil may lead to weak stems, so moderate fertility is ideal.
Water regularly while seedlings are young, then reduce frequency as plants mature. Harvest leaves as needed, or allow the plant to flower to attract beneficial insects.
Oregano is a hardy perennial that establishes reliably when planted in spring. Mild temperatures allow roots to develop before the stress of summer heat. For the best flavor and dense growth, place it in a location that receives full sun.
It performs best in well-drained soil and does not require high fertility. Excess nutrients can reduce leaf intensity. Water moderately, allowing the surface to dry slightly between sessions. Regular trimming encourages branching, and flowering stems are valuable for pollinators.
10. Sage
Sage benefits from spring planting because cooler conditions help young plants develop sturdy structure and deep roots. A sunny site with good airflow supports healthy foliage and reduces disease problems.
The plant prefers lighter, well-draining soil and is sensitive to prolonged wetness. Water when the soil becomes dry rather than on a fixed schedule. Harvest leaves frequently and prune lightly to maintain shape and stimulate fresh growth.
11. Lemon balm
Plant lemon balm in spring and it won’t waste any time settling in. As the days warm, fresh green leaves begin to appear, each carrying a light citrus scent that makes brushing past the plant a small pleasure. It’s one of those herbs that quietly fills space and makes the garden feel alive.
Give it sun or partial shade and soil that drains well. Keep the ground lightly moist, trim it often, and it will keep producing soft, fragrant growth for months.
12. Fennel
Fennel steps into the spring garden with quick, feathery growth that soon starts to rise above nearby plants. Its airy leaves sway in the breeze, and before long, beneficial insects begin to visit. It brings movement, height, and a slightly sweet aroma to the space.
Plant it in a sunny spot with loose, well-drained soil. Water regularly while it is young, and harvest leaves or allow it to flower to welcome even more pollinators.
13. Chamomile
Chamomile is one of those gentle herbs that makes a garden feel calm the moment it starts to bloom. Plant it in spring and soon you’ll see cheerful, daisy-like flowers bobbing above soft foliage. It doesn’t just look pretty — it invites helpful insects and hints at cozy cups of tea in your future.
Give it a sunny spot and soil that drains well. Water when the ground feels dry, and pick flowers regularly to keep new ones coming.
14. Tarragon
Tarragon may not shout for attention, but once it’s in the garden, you’ll be glad it’s there. Spring planting gives it time to settle in and produce slender, flavorful leaves that chefs swear by. It brings quiet elegance and a slightly sweet aroma to beds and containers.
Plant it where it can enjoy plenty of sun and good drainage. Water moderately and trim sprigs often to encourage fresh, tender growth.
Choose a sunny, sheltered spot and bay laurel will feel right at home. It can grow into a handsome shrub over time, and many gardeners like keeping it in a pot so it’s easy to move and manage. Planting in spring helps it settle before the weather turns extreme.
Use well-draining soil and avoid letting the roots stay wet. Water when the top layer dries out, and snip leaves as needed for cooking. Occasional trimming keeps the plant neat and encourages fresh growth.
16. Marjoram
Give marjoram a warm, sunny place in the garden and it will happily spread into a soft, leafy mound. It’s perfect along borders, in raised beds, or tucked between vegetables. A spring start lets it grow steadily before summer heat arrives.
It prefers light, well-drained soil and doesn’t need heavy feeding. Water moderately, letting the surface dry a bit between sessions. Trim often, and you’ll keep getting tender, flavorful sprigs.
17. Sorrel
Plant sorrel in spring in a spot that gets sun or light shade. Give each plant a little room so the leaves can spread and grow comfortably. It settles in quickly once temperatures are cool and pleasant.
Sorrel prefers soil that drains well but stays slightly moist. Water when the surface begins to dry, and harvest the outer leaves first. Picking often encourages new growth, and younger leaves usually taste best.
18. Stevia
Plant stevia in late spring when days are warm and frost is no longer a concern. Choose a sunny location, either in the ground or in containers, where the plant can receive plenty of light.
It grows best in well-draining soil. Water regularly but avoid keeping the roots too wet. Pinch the tips from time to time to make the plant fuller and to increase leaf production.
19. Lavender
Lavender is one of the most renowned herbs in the garden, loved for its calming scent and beautiful purple blooms. Plant it in spring in a bright, sunny spot with plenty of open air, and it will slowly grow into a tough, reliable plant.
Lavender needs soil that drains very well. Sandy or slightly dry ground works better than rich, wet soil. Water lightly and let the soil dry between watering. Once established, it becomes quite drought tolerant.
Trim after flowering to keep the plant neat and encourage fresh growth. The blooms smell wonderful and are excellent for attracting bees and other pollinators.
Conclusion
Planting herbs in spring is one of the easiest ways to build a garden that looks good, tastes good, and works with nature. With mild temperatures and longer days, young plants establish faster and reward you with steady growth throughout the season.
Whether you tuck them between vegetables, line them along pathways, or grow them in containers near the kitchen, herbs bring fragrance, flavor, and life to every corner.
Add in their ability to welcome pollinators and help reduce pest problems, and they quickly become some of the hardest-working plants in your space.
Start small or plant them all — either way, your spring garden will thank you with fresh harvests and a healthier, more balanced backyard.
Khaja Moinuddin, a computer science graduate, finds joy in gardening and homesteading. Join him on this blog as he shares his experiences in homesteading, gardening, and composting
Price: $9.99 (as of Feb 14, 2026 08:06:04 UTC – Details)
Celebrate National Pharmacy Week National Pharmacy Week is the perfect time to honor the incredible work that pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and medical staff do every day. This year’s theme, “Pharmacists: Care Beyond Medications, Health Champions”, emphasizes the crucial role pharmacists play in patient care and their dedication to health and wellness beyond simply dispensing medications. Our Happy National Pharmacy Week Banner is the perfect decoration for any pharmacy, hospital, clinic, or medical office to celebrate the contributions of pharmacists and their impact on the healthcare system. Show Appreciation for Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians Pharmacists are often the unsung heroes of the healthcare world, offering expert advice on medication management, educating patients, and ensuring proper care beyond medications. Our National Pharmacy Week banner is designed to showcase the theme of “Care Beyond Medications”, making it a thoughtful addition to any pharmacy technician appreciation event. Whether you’re hosting a hospital event, celebrating medical staff, or simply looking to decorate your pharmacy, this banner will highlight the essential role pharmacists play in supporting patient care and promoting overall health. Durable, High-Quality Material for Lasting Use Made from premium polyester, this National Pharmacy Week banner is built to last. It’s weather-resistant, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. Whether you are displaying it inside a pharmacy, hospital, or clinic, or hanging it outside for a larger Pharmacy Week celebration, it will stay vibrant and strong for years to come. This banner is not only a beautiful decoration but also a long-lasting investment in honoring the contributions of pharmacists and medical staff. Perfect Size for Any Pharmacy or Medical Facility Measuring 70.87 x 45.3 inches, this National Pharmacy Week banner is the perfect size to make a statement without overwhelming your space. Whether you’re hanging it in a pharmacy, hospital, clinic, or during a Pharmacy Week celebration, it will fit beautifully in any setting. The size ensures that it stands out and draws attention to the important theme of health champions and the work pharmacists do to support patient health. Easy to Hang for Quick Setup With pre-punched holes for easy hanging, our National Pharmacy Week banner is designed to be simple and hassle-free to set up. Whether you’re hanging it in your pharmacy, hospital, or clinic, or using it to decorate for a Pharmacy Week event, the setup process is quick and easy. This banner allows you to focus on the celebration and recognition of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians instead of worrying about complicated decorations. 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Perfect for National Pharmacy Week Celebrations: Celebrate health champions and the contributions of pharmacists with this vibrant banner. Celebrate National Pharmacy Week with Pride. National Pharmacy Week is a time to recognize the incredible contributions of pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and medical staff. Our Happy National Pharmacy Week Banner is the perfect decoration to highlight this year’s theme, “Pharmacists: Care Beyond Medications, Health Champions.” Whether displayed in a hospital pharmacy, clinic, or community pharmacy, this banner adds color and meaning to your celebration, honoring the professionals who go above and beyond for patient care. Show Appreciation for Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians. Pharmacists are more than medication experts—they are health champions who provide guidance, education, and support for patients. With our pharmacy banner, you can create the perfect atmosphere for a pharmacy technician appreciation event or a medical staff recognition celebration. The bold design of this pharmacy week decoration helps remind everyone of the vital role pharmacists play in improving health outcomes in every clinic, hospital, and pharmacy setting. Durable Banner for Long-Lasting Use. Crafted from premium polyester, this National Pharmacy Week banner is built to last. The 70.87 x 45.3-inch size makes it large enough to stand out in pharmacies, hospitals, and medical clinics, while the weather-resistant fabric ensures it can be used indoors or outdoors. Whether you’re hosting a pharmacy staff event or decorating a hospital pharmacy entrance, this banner will stay vibrant throughout the week and beyond. Easy to Hang and Perfect for Any Event. Our pharmacist appreciation banner is designed with convenience in mind. With pre-punched holes, it’s quick and easy to set up in a pharmacy, clinic, or hospital classroom. Lightweight yet durable, this pharmacy week decoration helps you prepare for celebrations without any hassle. It’s a simple way to bring the theme of care beyond medications into your space while showing gratitude for pharmacists and medical staff. Celebrate Health Champions in Your Community. Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians truly embody the theme of “Care Beyond Medications.” They work tirelessly as health champions, ensuring patient safety and wellness. This National Pharmacy Week decoration is more than just a banner—it’s a symbol of appreciation for those who dedicate their lives to caring for others. Whether you’re organizing a pharmacy appreciation event or a medical staff recognition ceremony, this banner is the perfect way to honor the heart of healthcare.
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Promotes an interdisciplinary approach to the study of health communication
According to the Joint Commission, over 75% of all serious medical errors in this country result from miscommunication. Based in these adverse realities and the author philosophy that communication is a clinical skill integral to effective health care delivery, this comprehensive text addresses thetheories and abilities needed by all health care providers. The only text written specifically for students of nursing, medicine, physical therapy,pharmacy, dentistry, physician assistants and opticians, this book incorporates recommendations for specific multimedia, suggestions for class discussion and interactive case studies to provide a rich and multi-perspective learning experience for gaining optimal expertise in effective health communication
The author underscores the importance of developing and maintaining successful relationships with patients, peers, and colleagues as a cornerstone ofeffective health care outcomes. With an emphasis on interactive learning, the text utilizescommunication theories to analyze verbal and non-verbalbehaviors in diverse health care contexts and assess which are more effective and why. Summaries at the end of each chapter discuss health communicationoutcomes. Chapters cover interpersonal and gendered communication, provider-patient communication, intercultural communication, organizationalcommunication, team communication, malpractice, palliative care, end-of-life communication, and many other topics.
Key Features:
Fosters a patient-centered, interdisciplinary, multidimensional learning experience for health care students Recommends experiential learning using videos, films, and related discussion exercises Presents case study role-plays Provides companion case study resource to enhance learning objectives Publisher : Springer Publishing Company Publication date : August 29, 2016 Edition : First Edition Language : English Print length : 296 pages ISBN-10 : 0826124410 ISBN-13 : 978-0826124418 Item Weight : 1.15 pounds Dimensions : 7 x 0.67 x 10 inches Best Sellers Rank: #1,327,955 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #61 in Nursing Issues, Trends & Roles (Books) #331 in Pathology Clinical Chemistry (Books) #458 in Social Work (Books) Customer Reviews: 4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars (46) var dpAcrHasRegisteredArcLinkClickAction; P.when(‘A’, ‘ready’).execute(function(A) { if (dpAcrHasRegisteredArcLinkClickAction !== true) { dpAcrHasRegisteredArcLinkClickAction = true; A.declarative( ‘acrLink-click-metrics’, ‘click’, { “allowLinkDefault”: true }, function (event) { if (window.ue) { ue.count(“acrLinkClickCount”, (ue.count(“acrLinkClickCount”) || 0) + 1); } } ); } }); P.when(‘A’, ‘cf’).execute(function(A) { A.declarative(‘acrStarsLink-click-metrics’, ‘click’, { “allowLinkDefault” : true }, function(event){ if(window.ue) { ue.count(“acrStarsLinkWithPopoverClickCount”, (ue.count(“acrStarsLinkWithPopoverClickCount”) || 0) + 1); } }); });
Ever come home after a long, stressful day and felt even more stressed once you stepped inside? Or if you’ve been at home all day with the kids and the mess and the noise has you wanting to pull your hair out? Our homes can be a welcoming, safe space, or they can add to the chaos.
Over the years, I’ve been learning and experimenting with what it looks like to create a nervous system–friendly home. I’ve shared pieces of this before, but I wanted to pull it all together in one place. These are the things that have worked for me and that I’ve dialed in over time. Many of them are free, most are simple, and all are easy enough.
The home is like a partner with our nervous system. Our environment is either reinforcing safety signals or subtle danger signals all day long. And for many of us, especially moms, the home is where the majority of our nervous system triggers live. One 2009 study even found a direct link to clutter and stress levels in women.
My goal when I walk into my home is to feel like my nervous system is getting a comforting hug. It’s that feeling when your body relaxes and the tension starts to slip away, even without you noticing.
How Our Homes Talk to the Nervous System
Our nervous system is constantly scanning. It’s noticing light cues, sounds, visual clutter, smells, temperature, predictability, and social cues. These signals happen hundreds or thousands of times per day.
When those cues lean toward “unsafe,” our baseline tends to stay in sympathetic mode, or fight-or-flight. When they lean toward “safe,” the body can relax into parasympathetic mode, where digestion, repair, connection, and sleep happen more easily.
I talk a lot about healthy foods and supplements, but these can’t work well when our nervous system is under constant stress. In this article, I’m walking through what’s made the biggest difference for me. See what resonates with you and what you’d like to add (or take away) from your space.
Light: The Biggest Nervous System Lever in the Home
You’ve probably heard me talk about light a lot, and that’s because I really believe it’s one of the biggest cues we can send to the body. Light is a massive safety or danger signal, and in many cases, the right kinds of light are free or inexpensive. For me, light is at least as important as diet and supplements. And ideally, it’s a both-and situation.
Getting natural sunlight first thing in the morning, preferably within an hour of sunrise, is a huge needle mover. Some easy ways I do this include stepping outside as soon as I wake up, often barefoot, and usually in my pajamas. I open the blinds fully during the daytime, and I’ll even open the windows (yes, even when it’s cold out!).
Morning Sunlight
When that morning sunlight hits our eyes, it starts a hormonal cascade that helps bring everything into alignment. You’ll want to make sure the light isn’t being filtered through a window or glasses. Be sure not look directly at the sun though! I even know some people who wear blue-blocking glasses until they get outdoors, so sunrise light is the first thing that hits their eyes.
I like to stack this with other habits. If it’s not too cold, I’ll get my feet on the ground, do some grounding, and hydrate with mineral water while I’m outside. I keep a quart of salt water and/or minerals on my nightstand that’s easy to grab.
During the day, we actually want bright light. Blue light itself isn’t harmful, but it’s all about the timing. During the brightest parts of the day, blue light signals alertness and metabolism, something we want. I also like to get little “light snacks” by going outside in bright light for about 10 minutes in the afternoon.
Inside the house, I use full-spectrum, non-flicker daylight bulbs during the day.
Evening Light Cues
Evening light is where I’m the most intentional. In a perfect world, we’re aware of our light environment after sunset. Bright light at night signals daytime to the body and can cause stress in our nervous system.
Whenever possible, I try to eat earlier and give myself at least three hours before bed with no food and lower light. I switch to warmer, lower light bulbs that mimic the feel of sunset and campfire light. I use lamps instead of overhead lighting and keep light at eye level or below. Our ancestors had lower and warmer light sources from candles and fires.
After sunset, I avoid bright LEDs and anything that signals daylight, including screens. When I do need screens, I use red filters or my Daylight computer that doesn’t have backlighting for writing or creative projects.
In my bedroom, I pull down the blackout shades after sunset, block outdoor artificial light, and turn on red-spectrum low-light bulbs. I’ll read or draw and try not to be on screens. For me, light structure and nervous system structure are directly related.
Peace and Quiet
Sound is another big trigger that people don’t always think to audit. Household noise can impact cortisol and the startle response, even when we think we’ve tuned it out. Things like a loud TV always being on, constant notifications, HVAC hums, appliances, or echoey rooms can all be stressors.
There are often simple shifts here. Adding textures can dampen sound. Lowering or turning off the TV helps. White noise can be calming. In my bedroom, I use a Jaspr air filter that also provides a really beautiful white noise sound.
Notifications are another big one. My phone is almost always on silent or airplane mode. I don’t like vibration or sound, and I check it only when I want to, instead of reacting to alerts. And at night, my phone goes in the charging drawer in the kitchen.
Temperature and Nervous System Safety
Temperature is another often-forgotten stressor. Extreme temperatures are obviously stressful, but never having variation can also be confusing to the body. Interestingly, overheated homes are linked to increased irritability and stress hormones. Cooler temperatures, especially during sleep, support vagal tone.
During the day, I aim for a comfortable indoor range, but not overly warm. At night, I keep my bedroom much cooler, often in the 60s. Instead of heating the whole house, I prefer to pile on the warm blankets and use my Chilipad to cool the mattress. Some of my best sleep happens with windows open and cozy blankets, even when it’s cooler outside.
And while we’re on the topic of temperature, using a sauna can help our bodies be more resilient to stressors. Sauna is known as a hormetic stressor, or the good kind of stress, that helps our body better self-regulate.
Visual Load, Clutter, and Mental Stress
This is a big one, especially for women. Visual clutter is a drain on our nervous system and it increases stress levels. Every item we own is a micro-decision. I’ve heard the phrase, “Everything you own owns a little part of you,” and that really resonates.
Research shows that women are often more affected by visual load than men. Clutter often signals unfinished tasks, which can add (you guessed it!) more stress. Over time, I’ve focused more on simplifying and subtracting than organizing. Clearing surfaces, creating neutral spaces, and hiding visual noise with storage can help.
For me, decluttering hotspots like the entryway, kitchen counters, and the chair in my room has made a noticeable difference. Calm is not just an aesthetic, but a purposeful design strategy.
Bring the Outside In
When I imagine a calm space, being outside in nature is part of the picture. We’re wired for the safety cues that nature offers. There’s compelling data that spending time in nature benefits the nervous system and psyche, even over short periods.
In the same way, bringing nature into the home can act as a safety signal. Natural materials like wood, stone, clay, and natural fibers feel grounding. My home has lots of natural light, and I have more than a few plants in my bedroom. I’m incorporating more natural fabrics into my wardrobe and I love these linen bedsheets.
I feel more peaceful when my home reflects nature, even in small ways.
Minerals are another way I bring nature into the home. I have mineralized water stations, sea salt in the kitchen, and bath setups with Epsom salt, sea salt, and essential oils. I keep a hydration corner in my kitchen with liquid minerals the kids and I add to drinks.
Grounding is another component. I love being barefoot outside, but indoors I also use natural fiber rugs and blankets. I like sitting on the floor, not just chairs. Outdoor spaces like patios and hanging chairs help blur the line between indoor and outdoor.
Cozy Corners and Spaces
Emotional safety is foundational for our overall health. If our body is on edge and in fight or flight mode, it’s much harder for healing to happen. I’ve found that cozy, calming spaces in the home can be very regulating.
When my kids were younger, indoor yoga swings and hanging chairs were incredibly calming for their nervous systems. Movement is regulating for adults too. Most of our swings live outside now that we live in a pretty warm climate.
Create calm nooks with warm blankets and inviting books. Try weighted blankets, and having designated quiet spaces to support regulation. Rituals and routines matter too. Morning routines and bedtime routines signal predictability and safety, especially for kids who thrive on some kind of structure.
For me, evening rituals like sipping Cacao Calm or listening to calming music help signal that it’s time to slow down.
The Bedroom as a Nervous System Repair Station
If I had to prioritize one room, it would be the bedroom. Sleep is when repair happens, so the bedroom should support that as much as possible.
In my bedroom, I prioritize complete darkness with blackout curtains and no LEDs. I keep the room cool, use white noise, and minimize clutter. I don’t have a TV or screens in the room, and I try not to bring my phone or computer in. I don’t even have a dresser in my room as all of my clothes live in the closet, out of sight!
I use linen bedding, a natural mattress, and keep mineralized water on my nightstand. The lighting is low and warm in the evening and I can instantly feel my body relax. It’s not so much about adding to the space, but taking away from it. Removing devices, blue lights, cables, clutter, and work reminders. My bedroom is for sleep and calm.
The Kitchen as a Nourishment Space
The kitchen can also be a nervous system regulation area. Hydration zones, visible minerals, and simplified tools make nourishment easier and less stressful. Keeping surfaces uncluttered and organizing for ease reduces overwhelm. I’ll also make sure that simple, healthy foods are visible so my kids can easily grab something. The goal is to make the kitchen feel like a place of nourishment, not stress.
The Snowball Effect
What I love about this is that a nervous system–friendly home doesn’t have to be expensive. Many of the most impactful changes are free. Opening blinds and windows, turning off overhead lights at night, decluttering, reducing noise, cooling the bedroom, and adding natural elements can all shift the nervous system.
This is about signals, not aesthetics. It’s not about having a fancy home, high-end furniture, or extreme minimalism where everything is white. It’s about turning your home into a nervous system ally. These small changes can have a compounding effect over time that can add up to big results.
Final Thoughts On A Nervous System Supportive Home
Our homes are constantly sending signals to our nervous system, whether we realize it or not. When those signals support safety, regulation becomes easier and these small changes compound over time.
It’s not about having the perfect home, but learning to embrace more calm in an intentional way. These small shifts can help your home work for you and your family’s health.
What are some ways you’ve created more calm in your home (or would like to)? Leave a comment and let us know!
The key to success with any plant is to understand its cultural requirements as determined by its native environment, and to try to replicate them at home.
In this case, we have a succulent that does not grow in the wild, and so we should consider the requirements of the parents from which it originates.
Climate
As a hybrid of two succulent species native to the South African Cape Province region, string of dolphins is genetically wired for hot, dry summers and wet, mild winters.
An average home environment with temperatures of 60 to 80°F and humidity in the 30- to 50-percent range is suitable.
This is a frost-tender hybrid that declines with cold temperatures.
If yours vacations outdoors in the summer, be sure to bring it back inside before the nights dip into the 50s, well before the first frost.
Light
Indoors, x B.delphinatifolius requires bright, indirect sunlight for effective photosynthesis, the process of converting light to energy that keeps foliage vibrant.
A position about three feet from a south- or east-facing window is ideal. Avoid direct exposure that can scorch the foliage.
If you like to place your plants outdoors in the summer, choose a location with full sun to part shade for optimal health.
Soil
As with many types of succulents, string of dolphins prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0.
It should be gritty for fast drainage. A cactus and succulent mix is the best choice for houseplant cultivation.
Hoffman Organic Cactus and Succulent Soil blends compost, peat moss, and sand with limestone for the appropriate pH balance, resulting in a slightly acidic, rapidly draining substrate.
While it is not one of the more common succulents, you are likely to find x B.delphinatifolius available from specialty nurseries and those that carry a wide selection of succulents.
Find string of dolphins in four- and six-inch starter pots, and bare root specimens available at Planet Desert.
Maintenance
The stems of a dolphin succulent grow rapidly.
If you find they are getting “leggy,” with longer spaces than usual between the leaves, you can prune to promote more compact, branching growth.
Use clean shears to cut just below a leaf node to stimulate lateral growth from that point. You may want to use the cutting to propagate new plants as discussed below.
Repotting is an infrequent maintenance task best done during dormancy in late winter to early spring.
When the roots protrude from the drainage hole, or there is no longer an inch of space between the foliage and pot rim for easy watering, select a pot one size larger than the current vessel.
Do not water the day before repotting. You’ll want the soil dry so you can loosen and remove most of it before replanting in fresh cactus and succulent potting mix.
Fill the bottom third of the new container with soil. Settle the root mass in the pot at the original depth.
Price: $21.95 (as of Feb 13, 2026 08:02:43 UTC – Details)
Many letters of thanks and accounts of cures reached Maria Treben from people having recovered their health through the use of medicinal herbs through the herbal “Health through God’s Pharmacy”. It is encouraging to read which more or less spectacular cures have been achieved through the use of medicinal herbs and the will to recover one’s health. People having recovered from even serious illness write to Maria Treben from all social classes and all religions. Publisher : Ennsthaler Publication date : June 7, 2017 Edition : 4th Language : English Print length : 308 pages ISBN-10 : 3850682242 ISBN-13 : 978-3850682244 Item Weight : 9.6 ounces Dimensions : 4.5 x 1 x 7.5 inches Best Sellers Rank: #1,032,908 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #219 in Medical Home Care (Books) #1,391 in Holistic Medicine (Books) #1,594 in Herbal Remedies (Books) Customer Reviews: 4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars (89) var dpAcrHasRegisteredArcLinkClickAction; P.when(‘A’, ‘ready’).execute(function(A) { if (dpAcrHasRegisteredArcLinkClickAction !== true) { dpAcrHasRegisteredArcLinkClickAction = true; A.declarative( ‘acrLink-click-metrics’, ‘click’, { “allowLinkDefault”: true }, function (event) { if (window.ue) { ue.count(“acrLinkClickCount”, (ue.count(“acrLinkClickCount”) || 0) + 1); } } ); } }); P.when(‘A’, ‘cf’).execute(function(A) { A.declarative(‘acrStarsLink-click-metrics’, ‘click’, { “allowLinkDefault” : true }, function(event){ if(window.ue) { ue.count(“acrStarsLinkWithPopoverClickCount”, (ue.count(“acrStarsLinkWithPopoverClickCount”) || 0) + 1); } }); });
When our body starts to feel overwhelmed by stress, illness, or shifting hormones one of the first places we can see it is our hair. Hormones affect nearly every aspect of health, and I’ve certainly seen the connection between hormones and hair growth firsthand.
After many years of pregnancy, nursing, and thyroid challenges, my body was tired. I remember standing at the bathroom mirror after years of elevated hormones from pregnancy and nursing. The postpartum hair loss finally hit… and boy did it ever.
I addressed the stress and hormone imbalance, and the hair loss slowed. But I still wanted something to help new hair grow more quickly and protect my scalp and hair. This homemade hair growth serum is the result.
Some women go to a dermatologist or beautician for hair concerns. I tend to go to my pantry. Like my homemade sea salt spray, this DIY hair serum for growth is affordable and uses nourishing ingredients to naturally support scalp health.
What Really Causes Hair Loss
Hair loss rarely happens in isolation. It’s often a sign that something deeper is happening in the body. Common root causes include chronic stress, hormone shifts, thyroid imbalance, postpartum changes, nutrient deficiencies, and post-viral illness. When our body doesn’t have enough resources, it prioritizes keeping us alive. And hair doesn’t make the cut.
Supporting hair growth starts from the inside. Prioritizing protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins helps the body rebuild hair tissue. Managing stress through sleep, gentle movement, and nervous system support can also make a noticeable difference. For hormonal hair loss, balancing blood sugar and supporting thyroid and adrenal health can be helpful.
While addressing the root cause is key, using products topically can also help. That’s where a scalp serum for hair growth can be beneficial.
Do Hair Growth Serums Actually Work?
The answer is, it depends. A serum won’t fix hormone imbalances or chronic stress on its own, but it can support scalp health and stimulate circulation, which helps hair follicles function better.
Treatments like minoxidil are widely used, and studies show they can sometimes work, but not without risks. There are plenty of natural ingredients that can work just as well or even better than the conventional options. Rosemary oil for one. One study showed it worked as well as minoxidil for certain types of hair loss. If you want a natural approach, a homemade serum is a gentle option.
So, what stimulates hair growth best? Healthy circulation, nutrients, lowering inflammation, and a healthy scalp all play a role. A serum can provide the support your scalp needs externally while lifestyle and nutrition address the issue from the inside.
Why Use a Hair Growth Serum?
A good hair serum for growth helps:
Stimulate circulation to the scalp
Nourish follicles with vitamins and minerals
Soothe irritation and dryness
Protect hair from environmental damage
Whether you’re looking for the best hair growth serum for women or a hair growth serum for men, the goal is the same: create a healthy scalp environment that supports regrowth.
Best Hair Serum for Hair Growth: DIY Recipe
This DIY serum combines herbs and essential oils traditionally used to support hair and scalp health. It’s gentle enough for regular use and water based so it doesn’t make hair feel really oily.
Key Ingredients in This Serum For Hair Growth
Nettle – Rich in iron and vitamins A, C, and K, along with potassium and magnesium. These nutrients are essential for healthy hair follicles. Helps stimulate hair growth and improve scalp health.
Horsetail – High in silica, a mineral that supports hair strength and elasticity. Silica is linked with thicker, shinier hair.
Aloe Vera Gel – Aloe vera gel naturally soothes the scalp. Its the base of the serum and helps reduce irritation and dryness. Aloe also provides lightweight hydration so it’s great for most hair types.
Essential Oils for Hair Growth
Not only do they smell good, but these essential oils help stimulate circulation and promote hair growth.
Rosemary oil is one of the most studied essential oils for hair growth. Some research suggests it may be comparable to minoxidil for certain types of hair loss.
Clary sage oil is traditionally used for hormonal balance and may be helpful for hormone-related hair loss.
Lavender oil supports scalp health and has antimicrobial properties, which can help maintain a healthy scalp environment.
Together, these ingredients combine to create a powerhouse hair growth serum!
Hair Growth Serum Recipe
Help stimulate hair growth with this aloe vera, herb, and, essential oil recipe.
Prep Time5 minutesmins
Steeping Time15 minutesmins
Total Time20 minutesmins
Yield: 8ounces
Author: Katie Wells
In a small pan, bring the distilled water to a boil.
Remove from the heat and add the dried nettle leaf and horsetail leaf.
Cover the pot and let the herbs sit in the water for at least 10 minutes or until the water cools.
Strain the herbs out and pour the herbal tea into a spray bottle.
Add the aloe vera gel and essential oils and shake well.
Store in the refrigerator and shake well before use.
Spray liberally on hair roots once or more per day. I found that it was easiest and worked the best to spray on before bed each night.
This hair serum will last about 1 week if stored in the fridge. You can also freeze some if you want to make a bigger batch for later.
How to Use Scalp Serum For Hair Growth
Apply a small amount of serum to the scalp and massage gently. Focus on your scalp and hair roots. Massage increases circulation, which helps deliver nutrients to follicles. I sprayed this scalp serum on every night before bed. You can use it on either wet or dry hair.
What Is the Most Effective Hair Growth Serum?
The “most effective” serum depends on the cause of hair loss. Rosemary oil has emerging research and is a popular natural alternative. Herbal and essential oil–based serums, like this DIY recipe, work best as part of an overall approach that includes nutrition, stress management, and hormone support.
So, which hair serum can regrow hair? Regrowth actually depends on follicle health. A serum can support follicles that are dormant or weakened, but it’s much harder to revive inactive follicles. That’s why early intervention and addressing root causes are important.
Final Thoughts on Hair Growth Serum
Hair loss can feel discouraging, especially when it’s tied to postpartum changes, stress, or illness. While hair loss is common in life, we don’t have to take it lying down. It’s so important to address the root causes, but using a hair growth serum can also be really helpful in the meantime.
I love this hair growth serum because it’s simple with nourishing ingredients and I noticed a definite difference from it.
How do you support healthy hair? What products have you tried? Leave a comment and let us know!
If a new plant catches Richard Hawke’s eye, you know it is a true standout. As the director of ornamental plant research at Chicago Botanic Garden, he has researched, monitored, and written about more plants than most experts in the field. Most of these plants are part of CBG’s comparative trials, which is the best way to measure one plant’s merits against those of other similar plants. However, Richard’s reputation as Mr. Plant has also given him the opportunity to trial several brand-new cultivars—even if they do not fit seamlessly into an ongoing or upcoming trial. The following three perennials fall into this camp but performed so well that Richard felt they were report-worthy.
To see the rest of the best new perennials trialed at CBG recently, keep an eye out for Richard’s upcoming feature in Fine Gardening’s Summer 2026 issue.
The latest color in the New Vintage™ yarrow series ranges from peachy orange to yellow throughout the growing season.
Size: 26 to 28 inches tall and 10 to 12 inches wide
Conditions: Full sun and average to dry soil
The New Vintage™ series—Rose (‘Balvinrose’), Red (‘Balvinred’), Violet (‘Balvinolet’), and White (‘Balvinwite’)—of yarrows we evaluated in the mid-2010s made me love common yarrow again. I commended them for years for their uniformity, strong colors, and flower power. We have purposely not evaluated many common yarrow cultivars since, but I couldn’t say no when New Vintage™ Terracotta was offered to our trials. What a beauty! The peachy orange flowers keep coming from late June to mid-August, fading to shades of yellow before turning brown in September. At peak, the copious flowers—a delightful mix of soft earthy tones—conceal the lacy green foliage completely. As with others in the series, I am impressed by its strong, uniform habit. In 2025, the plants were 36 inches tall, and 46 inches wide measured across the broad floral canopy. And while there is no guarantee of what rabbits will eat, two neighboring yarrow cultivars are their favorite food, while Terracotta has been left alone!
A hosta with blooms as striking as its funky foliage
2. ‘Silly String’ hosta
The squiggly blue leaves of ‘Silly String’ make this plant a textural powerhouse.
Conditions: Light, open shade; moist, rich, compost-enhanced soil
There was a time when I paid little to no attention to the endless varieties of ho-hum hostas. I can’t remember the hosta that got me thinking otherwise or when it happened, but I’m a huge fan now. Hosta ‘Silly String’ is a recent introduction that has utterly charmed me. The squiggly lines of its narrow blue (to blue-green) leaves are whimsical and the perfect textural companion to broader foliage. As a small plant it’s just cute, but the cuteness sticks around even when it’s bigger, which so far is 11 inches tall and 24 inches wide. The quality of the flower display is equal to the superior foliar display, making it extra special to me. Rising on stems to 25 inches tall, the lavender trumpets—3 inches long and 1½ inches wide—are bountiful at peak bloom in August.
The luscious, deeply veined leaves of ‘Fusion of Fire’ can reach up to a foot across.
3. ‘Fusion of Fire’ oredenia
Name: ×Oredenia ‘Fusion of Fire’
Zones: 5–8
Size: 12 to 14 inches tall and 18 to 24 inches wide
Conditions: Partial to filtered shade; moist, well-drained soil
For gardeners looking for something new and different, ‘Fusion of Fire’ oredenia is that something. ×Oredenia is a fairly new intergeneric cross between Mukdenia and Oresitrophe, a related but less commonly grown Asian species. The first sign of life in the spring are sprays of soft pink flowers that emerge before the leaves. The glossy bronze leaves that follow give no indication of how lushly large and green they’ll grow—they can reach a foot across! We’re patiently waiting for the promised brilliant red fall color we have only seen in photos. After three years, plants are 16 inches tall and 34 inches wide and have been fully winter hardy. Some plants are forgiving; this one is not—correct culture is crucial for oredenia to be its best. Plant ‘Fusion of Fire’ in moist, well-drained soils in partial to filtered shade. Leaves will flag in the heat of the day and can burn in hot sunlight, especially if soils are also dry. Frost damage on tender new leaves is also possible in Zone 5. At home, I planted it in partial shade with lacy ‘Horatio’ goat’s beard (Aruncus ‘Horatio’, Zones 4–7) and the arching blades of roof iris (Iris tectorum, Zones 4–9) for a wonderful leafy medley.
Discuss this article or ask gardening questions with a regional gardening expert on the Gardening Answers forum.
And for more Midwest regional reports, click here.
Richard Hawke is a contributing editor for Fine Gardening and the director of ornamental plant research at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe, Illinois.
Photos: Richard Hawke
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