There are many medicinal plants, herbs and vegetables you can grow at home in your garden. They can be indoor or outdoor plants and they have many beneficial properties to them. You could be growing them already but are only using them for one thing... food! But... did you know that most of them have more than one use? Let's check it out.
Medicinal Plant Research
Tons of research has gone into understanding the benefits of a plant-based diet.
One study reports, “Research shows that plant-based diets are cost-effective, low-risk
interventions that may lower body mass index, blood pressure, HbA1C, and
cholesterol levels. They may also reduce the number of medications needed to treat
chronic diseases and lower ischemic heart disease mortality rates.”
Another study examined data from adults in North America and Europe, concluding
that a lifestyle pattern that includes eating more plants and the actual serving size of meat is associated with greater longevity. https://bit.ly/2BiUrtj
While these are only two examples among hundreds, if not thousands of studies, the
bottom line is that evidence is growing to support plant-based diets. Eating more whole
foods are associated with benefits like lower blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar,
and reduced body weight, which translates to less risk of heart disease, diabetes,
cancer, and other diseases.
What Medicinal Plants To Grow
Are you familiar with medicinal herbs? You may have some growing in your backyard
right now!
Medicinal herbs have been used since the beginning of time to aid healing and provide
relief to various ailments.
Let's start with a very common one and one that is super easy to grow.
Thanks to the vitamins and minerals in basil, such as vitamin K and iron, this herb
helps combat common ailments.
Basil health benefits:
Reduces stress
Strong antibacterial properties
Rich source of antioxidants
Prevents some harmful effects of aging
Reduces inflammation and swelling
Strengthens bones and liver
Boosts immunity
Boosts metabolism
Improves digestion
Common uses: Pick the leaves to use for anything from curries to pesto, sandwiches
to salads.
Throw the stems in soups, sauces, and simmering oils—they still have flavor!
Growing tips:
Basil thrives in well-drained moist soil, positioned in a sunny window. Read more at
Basil also grows extremely well in a hydroponics system such as the Aerogarden. This is how I am currently growing my basil.
Cayenne Pepper
Turn up the heat with cayenne peppers! Capsaicin is the compound responsible for
cayenne’s spicy nature, but it’s also responsible for some of its health benefits. Some
of these benefits include pain relief and lower cholesterol. Capsaicin cream is a
popular topical pain reliever that can be bought over the counter or made at home.
Cayenne pepper health benefits:
Detoxifies the body
Boosts metabolism
Eases an upset stomach and helps digestion
Improves circulation
Relieves pain
Common uses:
Add to sauces, spice mixes, dressing, and other dishes.
Capsaicin cream (make your own: https://bit.ly/3jpZ7yy)
Growing tips:
DIY guide on how to grow cayenne peppers from seed https://youtu.be/jQ-5CiH1KvI
I have heard many things about Cayenne Pepper. However, I am not able to grow them because I have a nightshade allergy and am not able to eat any kind of peppers! But for those who can eat them, I would definitely recommend giving them a try!