# Saltwater-Tolerant Herbs
For people living seaside, cultivating certain herbs is possible, as they are saltwater tolerant. The majority of herbs cannot thrive in high salinity, but herbs such as eucalyptus, vertiver, rosemary and mint will grow within close proximity to saltwater. Showering herbs daily with freshwater helps reduce salt buildup and allows the herbs to thrive better near the sea.
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Eucalyptus
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Eucalyptus thrives in saltwater settings, such as coastal Australia. Often used in mineral baths which contain salt, eucalyptus has therapeutic benefits for the respiratory system and sore joints. Native to Australia, which is surrounded by ocean, eucalyptus is a key ingredient in cold remedies, balms and rubs. Over 700 varieties of eucalyptus exist, and this green herb also contains a gummy resin that can be used as well. Eucalyptus is rarely used in recipes, but often used in aromatherapy through cold pressing the leaves to extract essential oil.
Vetiver
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Vetiver roots are used in teas to help calm the nervous system. Native to India, vetiver grows along the seaside and is considered a tropical grass with deep roots. The leaves are odorless, but the roots are aromatic and used as a source for essential oil. vetiver is used as a relaxant, often added to bathwater and facial steams to calm the nervous system. This herb adapts to rising soil levels and is highly tolerant of nitrates and phosphates, which are found in saltwater.
Rosemary
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Rosemary is a stimulant that is used in facial steams and baths. Rosemary is a saltwater-tolerant herb that has therapeutic benefits. It also is an aromatic herb used for cooking purposes. In recipes, rosemary is used in conjunction with sea salt, olive oil and other seaside ingredients to create delicious dishes. Rosemary is a stimulant and helps increase blood flow when the essential oil is cold pressed from the plant. Dry, well-lit soil is best for growing rosemary. Considered an ancient herb, rosemary is primarily cultivated in seaside locations, such as Spain and Italy.
Mint
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Spearmint thrives in saltwater settings, such as the Mediterranean coastlines. Mint is a saltwater-tolerant herb with a strong aroma, and originates in seaside locations in Asia and the Mediterranean Sea. Mint is a natural air freshener, and the leaves are used in recipes, aromatherapy and in cultural practices. Peppermint and spearmint are two popular varieties, and both are used to stimulate blood flow, combat bad breath and relieve symptoms of indigestion and irritable bowel syndrome. Mint is a common addition in Lebanese and Iranian cuisine.
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