1m2 Green | Herbs against anxiety (2021) by K. Mac Bride Archived

ART PROGRAM OF STICHTING NDSM-WERF

The plants in this 1m2 garden were chosen by artist K. Mac Bride for the beneficial properties they provide to support soil and insect life. Some of them feed the compost, others attract pollinators (like bees), others spread small amounts of nutrients into the soil through their roots, and still others provide earthworms. The plants also have healing qualities for the human body and have been selected for the strengthening support they provide to people who suffer from chronic stress. Stress can manifest itself in inflammation, anxiety, insomnia, bad mood, forgetfulness, sadness, chronic pain, hormonal imbalances, autoimmune disorders, allergies, irritated tissues and reduced immunity.

Advice: people who are pregnant or taking medication should seek medical advice before using herbs as medicine.

Listen to K. Mac Bride’s explanation in English via the player below.

Stichting NDSM-werf also asked artist duo Bart and Klaar to fill in a square meter of green space at NDSM. Click here for their vision on 1m2 of greenery.

Sage is a warming and invigorating herb that is good for the nervous system, memory and mental functions in the body and can help reduce stress and anxiety.

Valerian is sometimes referred to as nature’s valium. It can be used as a sedative, to aid in sleep and to reduce anxiety.

Passionflower the flowers, leaves and stems can be used to aid sleep and relaxation and to reduce anxiety.

Echinacea boosts the immune system and helps fight infection. It relieves inflammation and chronic pain that results.

Calendula has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant and antifungal properties. It is a tonic that stimulates the immune system and mental stability.

Lemon balm calms the nervous system, calms and improves mood. It can help with sleep, improve concentration and memory and works well against stress.

Thyme is a powerful herb with antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal properties, an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic qualities. Thyme boosts your mood.

Comfrey is a special plant that can be used in land restoration / land regeneration. The balance of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium makes it an excellent fertilizer and compost activator. The flowers attract pollinators like bees.

Rosemary supports memory, concentration, brain aging, eye health, circulation, digestion and immune system. It has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic qualities and contains antioxidants. It is a warming herb that brings strength and clarity.

Borage (also called cucumber herb) can be prepared as a calming and invigorating, cooling and cleansing tea, and can be used as a tonic/stimulant to calm chronically overactive adrenal glands caused by stress.

Marshmallow is a good general anti-inflammatory. It can be taken internally to soothe and moisten irritated tissues in the respiratory, digestive and urinary tracts, and externally to heal wounds, burns, eczema, and irritated skin.

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