The practice of growing medicinal plants at home has been around for a long time. Ancient cultures used herbs as medical remedies to treat common ailments and now modern folks are jumping on that bandwagon.
In this review, we showcase some of the most common medicinal herbs that you should always ensure to have in your home. Some of them actually work as spices for additions in your foods, while others can be topical.
If you have any preexisting health conditions and/or are taking medications, you should check with your medical professional before taking any herbs. Up next, we've got a list of medicinal herbs most people can use for treatments.
Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Scientifically known as (Ocimum basilicum), this plant’s dried leaves are known for their ability to add flavor to foods. When fresh, the leaves serve as an effective garnish to salad, pasta, or even pizza.
The leaf is known to be rich in vitamin K, manganese, and iron. This is the chemical composition that led scientists to see the medicinal abilities of the leaf.
In India, there exists a species of this plant known as holy basil. It is believed to be sacred and the natives use it in tea, ointments, and food in general. They believe that the plant can treat fever and diabetes.
Basil thrives in a warm environment and is easy to grow.
Health Benefits
This plant is known to effectively combat stress, bring fever levels down, boost your general immune system, and help with gastrointestinal system functionality.
Scientists also have established that the plant is a strong anti-bacterial and a rich source of antioxidants. It can prevent some common negative effects of aging.
Basil is an effective anti-inflammatory, promotes the health of the liver, and can strengthen bones.
Chamomile (Taraxacum)
Apart from the aesthetic value of this plant, the plant has a lot to offer. The beauty alone is therapeutic and qualifies this plant as medicinal as we know that therapy is medicine.
The plant’s dried flowers are used to make some tea that carries all the health benefits of this beautiful plant.
A cup of this sweet-smelling tea is believed to give you a restful night as you sleep. This popular herbal tea is easy to make.
Add hot water to the completely dried flowers and you have your cup of tea. Some people use it for flavor in foods and drinks. Essential oils made from it can also be applied or inhaled.
Health Benefits
This plant is known to improve your cardiovascular health and stimulate your immune system. Scientists believe, it has some cancer prevention abilities.
Chamomile is also popularly known to improve skin health, as a pain reliever, a rich source of antioxidants, an effective congestion relief, and an anti-inflammatory.
Parsley (Petroselinum Crispum)
This is a common flavoring and garnishing ingredient in the kitchen. It can be used when fresh or as a dry ingredient.
The plant is known to improve the effectiveness of the digestive system and the general immunity of the user. It is also a common remedy for bad breath.
Health Benefits
The plant is rich in antioxidants and vitamin K. it is believed to be effective in improving your digestive system and a fast relief against bloating.
Parsley can improve your bone health in general. If you struggle with bad breath, this is a natural remedy.
Peppermint (Mentha × Piperita)
If you fancy chewing gum, then this plant is a flavor you are quite familiar with. It is also highly used in most toothpaste products. Modern restaurants have also adopted it as a commonly used garnish, flavor, or ingredient in ice-cream, tea, and smoothies. It can be used in essential oil production. For pregnant mothers, this is the go-to herb when nauseated.
Health Benefits
The plant is known to relieve allergic attacks, muscle pains, and headaches. It reduces nausea, stomach gasses, and promotes digestion. It is a rich source of anti-bacteria and is a remedy for bad breath.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus Officinalis)
This plant is a common ingredient in our kitchens. It can be used fresh or dried as a flavoring agent, garnishing ingredient, or a marinating ingredient. The uses of this evergreen herb are wide and it’s up to you to decide where you want it to fit.
Rosemary tea and essential oils have gained popularity in recent days due to the outstanding benefits of the plant.
Health Benefits
The plant is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory elements. It improves blood circulation and treats bad breath. It has been used to improve hair growth and in promoting the general health of the human liver.
This plant can be used to improve the functionality of the user’s brain.
Conclusion
Plants are wonderful to look at and help keep the air clean and the above plants can even heal you. These days you can buy herb growing kits for your kitchen or if you've got a green thumb you can figure out how to grow them yourself at home.
And you don't need to start taking classes in medicinal herbs or homeotherapy as the above herbs are not potent. Just remember that if you are taking lots of prescriptions, check with your doctor on how much of the herbs you should be eating.
