Top 7 Medicinal Herbs to Grow at Home
Where growing plants at home for medicinal purposes is trending at a rapid pace, it is actually an age-old practice. Herbs have been used as medicines by various cultures around the world for centuries. Herbs are the basis of Chinese herbal medicine, Indian Ayurveda medicinal system, Hippocratic(Greek) elemental healing system, and many other ancient healing practices.
Today, backed by science, herbs are consumed for various health benefits in the form of capsules, pills, powder, tea, etc. People are realizing the immense potential of herbs and are using them to treat various ailments.
Below is a list of 7 herbs that are scientifically proven to have medicinal properties. Aside from that, they can be used for flavoring and garnishing as well. Not only are they easy to consume, but easy to grow as well.
- Chamomile
Aren’t they pretty enough to make you want to grow them? Aside from its aesthetic value, Chamomile has great therapeutic value as well. It has been found beneficial in improving cardiovascular health, stimulating the immune system and even provide some protection against cancer.
Chamomile tea is one of the most popular herbal teas. It is super easy to make: just add dried flowers to hot water, and voila! Chamomile can also be used as a flavoring agent in food and drinks. With all these benefits, it is difficult not to grow them.
2. Parsley
Parsley is a popular herb whose leaves are a common garnishing and flavoring ingredient. Parsley is highly nutritious and has several health benefits. It is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and has anti-bacterial properties. It supports eye, heart, kidney, and bone health.
Parsley goes well with American, European, and Middle Eastern cuisine. Its chopped leaves have a mild flavor and are commonly used to garnish salads and soups. You can easily make it a part of your diet by using it’s fresh or dried leaves in various dishes, marinades, and sauces, etc.
3. Cannabis
Cannabis, an ancient herb that was illegal till recently, is now being re-discovered and used in the form of cannabis oil, seeds, drinks, etc for multiple purposes. It helps treat inflammatory bowel diseases, PTSD symptoms, ADD and ADHD, alleviating stress and depression, relieving chronic pain, and even fighting symptoms of cancer. Alternatively, you can also go for thc gummies Canada and reap similar benefits.
Cannabis has many healing qualities that are now backed by several studies. Growing cannabis is inexpensive, easy, and requires no distinct types of equipment. However, growing cannabis is not legal everywhere, so make sure to check the state laws before you decide to grow it in your kitchen garden.
4. Peppermint
Peppermint is very easy to grow. All it requires is moist soil and some sunlight. Peppermint should be grown in confined spaces as it spreads very quickly. When mature, it can be cut down to 1 inch above the ground. After that, in around 90 days, it is ready to harvest again.
Peppermint aids digestion and helps in alleviating digestive symptoms such as indigestion, gas, and bloating. It may help ease menstrual cramps. It is also known to relieve anxiety and improve sleep.
Peppermint has various culinary uses. It is a widely used flavoring substance in chocolates, chewing gums, drinks, etc. It can be used for garnishing, making sauces, salads, and cocktails. Peppermint tea is popular due to its distinctive taste. One notable benefit of using peppermint is fresh breaths!
5. Lavender
Lavender is an aesthetically pleasing herb. It has beautiful flowers, a refreshing smell, and astounding health benefits! Lavender is widely used to treat mental health issues, headaches, anxiety, insomnia, toothaches, hair loss, skin irritations, and even cancer. Due to its marvelous smell, lavender is often a common ingredient in aromatherapy.
Lavender is used to treating wounds and fungal infections due to its antibacterial properties. Lavender tea is a well-known antidepressant. It is also a commonly used condiment in pasta, salad dressings, and desserts.
6. Rosemary
Rosemary is an evergreen herb. High in antioxidants, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory compounds, it has a wide range of applications. It is often used in improving digestion, enhancing memory and concentration, treating joint pain, and even hair loss. Its properties make it an appropriate herb to aiding weight loss.
Rosemary oil and tea have been popular lately. Rosemary is a well-known seasoning ingredient for a variety of dishes. Another bonus is the aesthetic value it provides.
7. Basil
Basil, also known as the "king of herbs", takes its name from the Greek word basileus, meaning king or royalty. Basil contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties and is useful in combating stress, reducing fever, boosting the immune system, and is beneficial for the gastrointestinal system. It also supports the heart, liver, and eye health.
Basil has various kitchen uses, such as making sauces, pesto, and vinegar. It is a commonly used garnish. Basil is easy to grow. It grows best in a warm environment and thrives in sunlight.
With so many tempting options, it’s tough to settle on a few. When choosing which herbs to grow, you should consider your own family’s needs. Certain herbs are seasonal and will need you to be considerate of the climate. A little research on which plants grow well in your area can prove useful. Gardening itself has its benefits, coupling them with nutritional herbs will boost your health and overall wellbeing. Happy gardening!
Author’s Bio:
Sophia Cooper Is a thorough and meticulous Content Analyst passionate about helping businesses succeed. She commits herself to continuous learning and focuses on sharing ideas and techniques learned from her experiences. She is a passionate writer who loves to write in a concise manner so that the information is helpful for everyone. Currently, she’s working with an Online Weed Selling Company.
