If the definition of medicine is something that makes you feel better, a potted medicinal herb sitting on a sunny sill qualifies as a cure.
No one would deny the soothing properties of a cup of tea brewed from leaves you clipped yourself. (N.B.: For a summary of research studies about the health benefits of herbs, visit The National Institutes of Health here.) Here are some ideas for cultivating your own cures.
Above: A Glass Teapot has a built-in filter to hold herbs. It's £26 at Cox & Cox.
Above: A four-inch tall Grow-Pot of mint ships in a neutral, 3.5-inch wide bamboo pot; no need to transplant for it to fit on most windowsills ($22 at Branch Home). To make mint tea, a digestive aid, use about 15 leaves per two cups water. Bring water to a boil, remove from heat, pour over leaves; let it steep for five minutes. Image via About.
Above: You can also grow chamomile indoors, in a sunny spot; make tea from chamomile's flowers (not its leaves). For iced tea, a digestive aid, pour boiling water over a mix of mint, chamomile, and lavender to taste (a little lavender goes a long way). After it cools to room temperature, strain. Image via Grateful. A four-inch tall Grow-Pot of lavender, in a bamboo pot, is $22 at Branch.
Above: Herb Scissors have five stainless steel blades to shear fine strips; they're $9.95 from Amazon. They're also available for £9.50 from Cox & Cox.
Above: Studies show that aloe vera may help heal cuts and burns. Indoors, it likes a sunny location and well-drained soil; don't over-water. Image via The Balcony Gardener.