By Phran Novelli

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - The New Year begins with hope for health and good fortune – and often a hangover or bellyache from overindulging at holiday parties. While there are all kinds of over-the-counter concoctions to relieve symptoms and make you feel better, for centuries, people have also found relief in herbal remedies from the garden.

Enjoy mint leaves on a fruit salad or blitzed into a soothing smoothie with yogurt to help relieve a tummy ache. Fennel is good for your gut too – crunch its celery-like stalks as a snack, or add the feathery fronds to foods where its licorice flavor’s welcome.

Thyme, oregano and other herbs are antibacterial agents, as well as tasty in an omelette, brunch beverage, or steeped into a healing tea alone or with other combinations of herbs you like together.

The healing powers of herbs are just one more reason to keep a pretty pot of them growing on your windowsill – or bring one to friends when you go visiting to wish them a happy and healthy New Year.