Herbal Garden Remedies: Growing Medicinal Plants at Home!

Introduction

In earlier days our elders used to grow their own food. They were growing vegetables and fruits to meet their needs. They also used to grow medicinal plants and herbs as they used to depend on home remedies for most illnesses. Even today eighty percent of the world’s population uses herbal medicines as their primary means of health care. Most health care products and cosmetics are derived from herbs.

In this 21st century, everyone is racing to gain a competitive advantage, so there is little time and space for anyone to grow any plants. So in this article, I will mention some of the medicinal plants which can be easily grown and require very less space and low maintenance.

Tulsi/Basil

Basil plant has much medicinal use and is the most widely-known medicinal plant in India. When I was a kid we were using basil paste for almost all types of insect bites, rashes, and skin infections. Eating its leaves also boosts immunity. It also helps in keeping away many pests including mosquitoes. It is believed to emit a huge amount of oxygen. . It also has significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

Turmeric

Turmeric is widely used in Indian cuisine. It is used in many cosmetics because of its medicinal properties. It has healing properties. I remember we were using oil and turmeric paste to heal wounds. Many Indian families use turmeric along with milk as a cure for the common cold. It’s also observed that regular use of turmeric paste reduces the growth of body hair and brightens skin complexion.

Ginger

Ginger is a part of the daily cuisine in many countries of the Asian continent, especially in our India. Ginger has many medicinal properties, including anti-bacterial, antiviral and antioxidant.Ginger juice balances the digestive process and improves the body's absorption of nutrients.It helps to fight cancer, diabetes and asthma. It can also be used in the cure of joint pain.

Lemon Grass

Lemon grass is another plant that can be grown at home. You can easily grow it in pots. This plant has lots of health benefits. It can be used in tea, salad, soup, and all other dishes. The grass has the unique flavor of lemonade. Very useful in nervous and stress-related conditions. This reduces the heat of high fever. We normally drink tea by adding lemon grass when we have a fever. In our village, this is a common cure for fever. It seems to be the most effective medication for respiratory problems and throat pain, abdominal pain, headache, joint pain, digestion problems, muscle pain, and stomach ache.

Ajwain

Ajwain is used in almost all Indian families. It has a very good smell. It can also be used to make pakodas(An Indian snack). In our village, it is used as a medicine for fever, especially for toddlers. Its leaf is a little burnt and the juice is mixed with honey and is given to the children. It is beneficial for abdominal discomfort due to indigestion, heartburn, and loss of appetite.

Black pepper

Was also known as black gold in earlier days. Western people used to trade this spice in exchange for other commodities. Black pepper is used to make Kada(a syrup) which is used to treat colds and coughs. It also helps in reducing cholesterol thereby controlling blood pressure. It also cleanses the body and is good for preventing cancer as it has a high level of antioxidants.

Aloe vera

This is a wonderful plant which can be easily grown anywhere. This requires high temperatures and very less water. It is very good for primary burn.  It can be used as a beauty ingredient and also for the stomach ache.
The plant is known to be a natural immunity booster with antioxidant properties. If you have a weak immune system, consume Aloevera juice regularly and it will boost your immune system easily. It also relieves inflammation when there is an injury and burns on the body.
It's great for your hair and skin. Consuming Aloevera juice can protect you from digestion problems.

Mint

Peppermint is one of the well-known medicinal plants widely used in various types of cuisine. It consists of manganese, vitamin A, and vitamin C and can be grown in any climate. The crushed peppermint leaves can be used to relieve muscle pain. It is also a good mouth freshener. It’s a good drug for various Stomach and intestinal problems.

Neem

Neem plant has long been recognized for its medicinal properties. It is used in toothpaste,hair oil,shampoo,soap and many more. It can also be grown in pots or grow bags. This plant is used in medicine as well as in cosmetics. It is very good for skin infection. In many indian families people drink its diluted juice twice a month as it is cosidered a good blood purifier. Some people brush their teeth by chewing neem sticks.In Yugadi(First day of Hindu Year)our day starts with consuming neem leaf with jaggery.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is famous as an ancient medicinal plant. It is one of the best stress reliever and is rich in medicinal properties. It can be easily grown and is good for wound healing. Is the best medicine for the heart. It also protects eye health. It relieves depression and anxiety. The plant will help lower cholesterol and keep blood sugar under control.

Brahmi(Asiatic Pennywort or Indian Pennywort)

This plant helps in improving memory. Reduces ulcers, skin diseases, and capillary sensitivity. This plant is best if you are intent on maintaining your youth. You can easily grow it in homes. It is also helpful in regenerating the nerves and brain. It also helps in reducing body heat. I remember my grandmother used to keep Brahmi leaves on her scalp to reduce the heat of excessive medication.

Before concluding my article I want to mention to all the readers, that this is an informative article. I am not a doctor or physicist. So before following any of the remedies mentioned in the post it is better to consult a doctor. I hope you like this post. Please give your valuable feedback in the comment section.

Keep Smiling and Happy Gardening.