In today’s automated world, we have the availability of many manufactured medicines and prescriptions, but they are not the only available solution to healing. Thankfully, we have the power of nature on our side. In the times of engineered medicines, many people are exploring the lost healing power of herbal plants.
But the power of these herbal garden plants is still being researched and explored, though they might be better at healing than manufactured medicines they do also have some side effects.
Nevertheless, there are many herbal plants that promise great results without any negative impacts or side effects and can be a great alternative to manufactured medicines. And in this article, we brought you 7 herbal plants with amazing healing powers.
Herbal Plants:
Basil
Basil is one of the most common herbal plants, it is used to garnish salads, pasta, and many other meals to add flavor. This plant contains vitamin K, iron, and several other minerals which are helpful in fighting off common ailments.
Moreover, when growing this herbal garden plant keep the soil moist and water regularly. Harvest basil leaves frequently for continuous and healthy growth.
Health Benefits Of Basil:
- Reduces Stress.
- Boosts Immunity.
- Increases Metabolism.
- Strengthens Bones and Liver.
- Provides a rich source of Antioxidants.
Uses of Basil:
- Used as a sprinkled garnish over dishes.
- An important ingredient in soups and smoothies.
- Leaves are sometimes used in teas.
Dandelions
Dandelions, though considered weeds, are not only edible but also full of health benefits. These herbal plants are rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, iron, calcium, and more. And every part of Dandelions is useful.
Dandelions prefer full sunlight, water them regularly and keep the soil temperature from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
You can harvest the leaves of these herbal plants after keeping them in the shade for a week to reduce the bitterness. The flowers should be harvested when they are still bright yellow and young. The Dandelion roots can be harvested at any time. Roast the chopped pieces at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes before using.
Health Benefits Of Dandelions:
- Support Bone health.
- Detoxifies Liver.
- Treats skin infections.
- Treats high blood pressure.
- Ails many heart diseases.
Uses of Dandelions:
- Brewed roots are used in tea.
- Leaves are used to garnish dishes.
- Flowers are used to make wine and honey.
Echinacea
Echinacea also known as the purple coneflower are another herbal plants that are used to treat different ailments. The most common use of coneflower is to treat the symptoms of the common cold.
Echinacea are generally drought-tolerant but require full sunlight of up to 8 hours each day. They can survive in a wide range of temperatures but struggle in places with high humidity.
The aerial parts of this herbal garden plant can be harvested in the second growing season and the roots can be harvested when the plant is at least 2-3 years old. You can pick the root parts by digging the plant out completely.
Health Benefits Of Echinacea:
- Treats Common Cold.
- Boosts immune system.
- Relieves respiratory issues.
- It helps fight infections.
Uses of Echinacea:
- Brewed leaves, flowers, and roots are used in teas.
Garlic
Garlic is a perennial medicinal plant that is grown for its flavorful bulbs. It has been valued for cooking and medicinal purposes.
Garlic is known for fighting infections, maintaining cholesterol levels, and much more. They prefer chilly weather to develop properly.
Garlic thrives best in full, direct sun and well-drained soil. Additionally, these herbal plants can be harvested when stems turn yellow and fall over and the bottom of the leaves turn brown.
Health Benefits Of Garlic:
- Helps prevent heart disease.
- Helps maintain cholesterol levels.
- Improves digestive health.
Uses of Garlic:
- Can be consumed raw.
- Is usually mulched and made into sauces or dips.
- Used to add flavor to many dishes.
Parsley
Parsley are another herbal plants that are used to garnish dishes and add a crisp taste to them. The high amounts of antioxidants, vitamin K, and other compounds present in Parsley make it a powerhouse for the body.
They prefer full sun (at least six hours of direct sunlight) and a well moist but not soggy soil.
Parsley can be harvested when it’s at least 6 inches tall and relatively bushy. Keep in mind to harvest the outer leaves, letting the inner leaves mature. Do not remove more than one-third of the leaves at a time.
Health Benefits Of Parsley:
- Cures halitosis aka bad breath.
- Supports bone health.
- Maintains good digestive health.
Uses of Parsley:
- Used as a garnish for dishes.
- Can be made into juice or tea.
Thyme
Thyme is one of the most popular herbs used in cooking. They are rich in thymol which is found in mouthwashes and vapor rubs. This gives thyme several antibacterial and antifungal properties.
They thrive best in full sunlight (at least 6 to 8 hours daily). Sandy or loamy soil is preferable for Thymes instead of moist soil. This easy-growing plant does not require much water. Watering every other week or once a month should be enough depending on the climate.
These herbal plants can be harvested at any time. The flavor of the plant will be strongest before it flowers so it is generally the best time to harvest the leaves.
Health Benefits Of Thyme:
- Prevents foodborne illnesses.
- Soothes sore throats.
- Treats respiratory problems.
- Improves the immune system.
- It helps improve eyesight.
Uses of Thyme:
- Seasoning for soups and sauces.
- Moreover, these herbal plants are used for making teas.
Lavender
Lavender is a pleasant-smelling herbal plant that can easily calm nerves with its soothing fragrance. This herbal garden plant is a part of the mint family and is an easy-to-grow herb that thrives in many parts of the globe.
Lavender is grown best in full sunlight. They prefer well-drained lean soil. Lavenders are extremely drought tolerant once established, though regular water is preferred during their first growing season.
Lavender flowers keep their fragrance once dried. The best time to harvest the flower is when they are still buds and starts to open.
Health Benefits Of Lavender:
- Relieves stress.
- Cures acne.
- Fights headaches and migraines.
- Aids sleep.
- These plants also supports healthy hair and skin.
Uses of Lavender:
- Used in massage treatments and aromatherapies.
- The brewed flowers of these herbal plants are used in tea.
- These plants are used in many healthcare products and creams.
Conclusion
These were some of the most common and beneficial herbal plants. You can harness the amazing healing powers of these herbal garden plants by cultivating and incorporating them into your life.
Most of these plants can be used as an alternative to modern medicines, however, the dosage of these plants should be kept to a minimum and are used under the advice of doctors.
For more such information and knowledge you can use the Plantora app. The Plantora app provides all the information about your little green buddies and can help you grow and maintain a fresh and healthy garden.
Raghav is a talented content writer with a passion to create informative and interesting articles. With a degree in English Literature, Raghav possesses an inquisitive mind and a thirst for learning. Raghav is a fact enthusiast who loves to unearth fascinating facts from a wide range of subjects. He firmly believes that learning is a lifelong journey and he is constantly seeking opportunities to increase his knowledge and discover new facts. So make sure to check out Raghav’s work for a wonderful reading.
