Plants play a vital role in our lives. They keep us close to nature. They bring freshness and positivity.
Tree plantation is the need of the hour and each one of us should aim for planting as much trees as possible. However, just like trees, growing plants is important. At least for our own sake.
There are many benefits associated with growing plants at home. While some plants offer medicinal uses, some provide ingredients for cooking, and some act as natural air purifiers. On top of everything, plants make our lives more convenient just by being within an arm’s reach.
This article lists 7 useful plants you should grow at home. Have a look.
Note: The following article covers plants that are commonly available and grown in India. If you live outside India, you can search for your region-specific plants with similar uses or health benefits.
#1: Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is well known for its health and beauty benefits. It’s being used since ages in form of juice and gel to treat stomach issues and skin problems. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The gel of the Aloe Vera leaves can be applied topically to:
- Treat acne
- Treat sunburns and scars
- Treat minor cuts and wounds
- Treat frostbite
- Treat insect bites
- Treat inflammation
- Moisturize skin
#2: Neem
The health benefits of Neem have been known from ages. Neem grows into a big tree so not everyone can plant it. But if you can, you should add it to your ‘must-have-houseplants’ list. Neem is antibacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal. Each and every part of Neem, including the leaves and the twigs, are useful in some or the other way.
- Neem leaves are used to treat skin and hair problems, wounds, eczema, chickenpox, viral fever, septic infections, and other health conditions.
- Brushing teeth with Neem twigs helps in maintaining dental care and hygiene.
- Smoke produces by burning Neem leaves repel mosquitoes and insects.
Did You Know?
Neem is considered to be one of the best kept beauty secrets from ancient India.
#3: Tulsi/ Holy Basil
Tulsi is a holy plant that’s part of almost every Indian household. It holds a special place in Indian mythology. It’s rich in essential oils and anti-oxidants. It has antibacterial, anti-viral, and immune-simulating properties. Best taken in form of kadha or tea, tulsi helps in:
- Lowering blood sugar levels, stress and anxiety
- Cleansing and detoxifying skin
- Fighting respiratory disorder such as cough and cold
- Fighting fever
- Promoting heart health
- Boosting immunity
#4: Curry Leaves/ Kadi Patta
Curry leaves hold a special place in South Indian cuisine. But due to their immense health benefits, they are now being widely used all over India. Curry leaves are rich in Iron, Folic Acid, anti-oxidants, and loads of nutrients including Vitamin A, B2, and C. Curry leaves help in:
- Lowering the risk of iron-deficiency
- Improving eyesight
- Improving digestion
- Regulating blood sugar levels
- Promoting hair health
- Promoting skin health
- Loosing weight
#5: Cordifolia/ Giloy
Giloy is a medicinal herb that’s been a part of the Indian Ayurveda since ages. It is being termed as ‘Amrita’ in Sanskrit, which translates to ‘the roots of immortality’. Giloy can be consumed in the form of kadha or juice to:
- Boost immunity, digestion, and vision
- Fight respiratory issues such as cough and cold
- Treat Arthritis, Type 2 Diabetes, and Chronic Fever
- Manage stress and anxiety
#6: Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass refers to the young grass of the wheat plant. It has gained massive popularity in recent years due to its immense health benefits to humans. Wheatgrass is rich in proteins, vitamins, anti-oxidants, and numerous enzymes. Wheatgrass helps in:
- Fighting infections
- Preventing Obesity, Type 2 Diabetes, and Cancer
- Lowering blood pressure
- Detoxifying blood, liver, and urinary tract
- Treating gastrointestinal disorders
#7: Mint/ Pudina
Mint is another useful medicinal plant you should consider growing at home. It has an icy-cool taste and a naturally soothing fragrance. It is used as an important ingredient in Indian cuisine, especially during summers. Mint leaves are beneficial in:
- Improving digestion and immunity
- Clearing up nose and throat congestion
- Treating skin problems
- Treating nausea and headache
- Loosing weight
Final Take
Hope you find the above list of plants useful. There are numerous other plants that are equally beneficial. However, the ones specified in this article require minimal maintenance efforts and can easily be grown by anyone. In rare scenarios, consumption of these plant products may cause side-effects. Be cautious and inform your doctor if you notice any signs of allergic reactions.
