Medicinal plants evaluation
by Kay Sandor
Although the GreenHab will be significant in providing fresh vegetables and perhaps fruits, nuts, and berries, there is also a holistic need to grow medicinal plants. The aesthetic beauty of their flower blooms, their ability to promote holistic health and wellness, and to reduce stress and anxiety will be useful during long periods of isolation on Mars. During our time on Mars, I propose that we evaluate the effects of three medicinal plants in particular: Holy Basil (Tulsi), Chamomile, and Lavender.
Research Question
How can we live closely together while in isolation and manage our stress? Can medicinal plants actively contribute to the crew’s well-being and collective harmony?
Interventions
– Holy Basil (Tulsi) Tea. My Tulsi tea will have dried leaves from my plants in Galveston in addition to purchased leaves.
– Chamomile Tea. My Chamomile tea will contain German chamomile flowers from my garden in Galveston in addition to purchased flowers.
– Lavender Aromatherapy Sachets and Almond Lavender Biscotti. My Lavender is from Texas Hill Country lavender farms. I’ll make sachets for each crew member for aromatherapy. (I’ll also bring samples of Almond Lavender Biscotti for a tea or espresso ritual.)
Evaluation
Crew members will offer qualitative responses to several questions as they describe their response to the use of Holy Basil (Tulsi) Tea, Chamomile Tea, Lavender aromatherapy sachets and Lavender. Examples of the qualitative responses sought could include:
1. Describe changes (if any) in your emotional feelings before and after drinking Holy Basil (Tulsi) Tea.
2. Describe changes (if any) in sleep patterns before and after drinking Chamomile Tea.
3. Describe changes (if any) in your emotional feelings before and after inhaling (3 deep breaths) a Lavender Sachet.
4. Describe changes (if any) in your emotional feelings before and after eating a Lavender Biscotti.
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