There are a variety of factors that you can consider when choosing which herbs to grow in your garden or in containers. Some people choose herbs based on their culinary value. Others look for herbs that have the best medicinal value. And still others are attracted to herbs that are the most ornamental and/or fragrant. For people who are passionate about their cooking, they may choose such herbs as: Basil, Marjoram, Thyme, Mint, Chives, Oregano, Rosemary and Cilantro. These particular varieties of herbal plants are best grown in partial sun and do require well drained soil. For people who look more for medicinal herbs, Ginseng is a popular choice. This herb is known for it's ability to boost your energy and is even found in many sports drinks on the shelf of your local market.

It works as an aphrodisiac as well. Another medicinal herb is Tumeric. This herb is used to help avoid cataracts on the eye. It assists in proper digestion, and because of its powerful anti-oxidant qualities, it has been helpful in the fight against various diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Aloe Vera is another plant found to contain many healing properties. The gel found inside the leaves of the plant help to restore skin tissue, ease sunburns and other types of burns, reduce inflammation of the skin, and help to heal wounds. You can even buy juice made from Aloe Vera at your local health food store. This juice has been known to reduce stomach and colon inflammation.

A number of gardening enthusiasts opt for growing the most ornamental or the most fragrant herbs, which oftentimes have beautiful flowers that display stunning colors. Aromatic herbs are not just desirable because they make your garden smell nice. Oils and fragrances are often extracted from these herbs. In fact, many perfume manufacturing companies use the oils of various plants to create their signature scent. You can even create your own potpourri for your house, or scented bags/satchels that you place in your drawers to give your clothing a nice smell. Aromatherapy is the use of certain oils of various herbs to reduce stress and other maladies. Two examples of commonly grown herbs for the use of their scents are lemon verbena and lavender. Rosemary is a versatile herb that is a favorite for all of the many reasons listed above.

It is used for culinary dishes, medicinal value, and it is an ornamental plant with lovely flowers. The plants gives off a very pleasant scent as well. So, the gardener who is trying to decide on which herbs to grow has thousands of options to choose from. You can begin your choice by deciding if you want herbs for cooking, herbs for medicinal value, herbs for ornamental value, or even for their scent. If you are planting your herbs outdoors, then you also can consider what type of season you are going to be planting your herbs in. Certain herbs, such as Winter Savory and Sage, can survive in colder temperatures, whereas other herbs require milder seasons. Whatever your requirements are, and whatever the environment allows, you will find some wonderful choices to begin your garden.