Every plant holds significance, but certain plants serve more practical purposes than others. Plants that we consume, utilize for skincare, or rely on for religious and medicinal reasons are particularly valuable additions to our homes. Furthermore, if we don't cultivate these plants ourselves, we may end up buying them from the market. So, why spend money when we can find an abundance of them in nature? India boasts a remarkable diversity of 45,000 known plant species, each serving different purposes. However, there are 10 species that are essential and highly recommended for every home.
1. Tulsi
Tulsi, also referred to as Holi Basil, is a remarkable medicinal plant renowned for its antioxidant and antifungal properties. Incorporating Tulsi in your daily routine can involve using it in tea or beauty products, or even consuming its leaves directly to alleviate indigestion, cough, cold, diabetes, and bronchitis.
In Hinduism, this indoor plant holds a significant position. Devotees worship the plant and offer holy water to it on a daily basis.
2. Curry leaves
Curry leaves, also known as kadhi patta, are a staple ingredient in everyday cooking and one of the most versatile plants. Adding these leaves while frying various dishes infuses a distinctive aromatic flavor into your food. Curry leaves make excellent indoor plants for homes as they thrive under ample sunlight and readily adapt to the Indian climate.
Moreover, these leaves boast a high fiber content that aids in weight loss and offers relief from diabetes, indigestion, and cholesterol-related concerns
3. Aloe vera
Aloe vera has gained widespread recognition for its various uses. It can be applied topically on the skin or its pulp can be extracted to prepare aloe vera juice. This plant is low-maintenance, requiring minimal water and sunlight. It grows rapidly and contains antioxidants and antimicrobial properties, which aid in regulating blood sugar levels and offer potential benefits for ulcers and constipation.
If you're interested in acquiring aloe vera or other indoor plants, you can conveniently search for "indoor plants online" to have them delivered to your doorstep.
4. Coriander
Coriander leaves are a must-have garnish for most dishes, adding a delightful flavor. They can also be combined with green chilies and ginger to create a popular paste called green chutney in India. These versatile plants offer numerous benefits and are rich in essential nutrients.
Incorporating coriander leaves into your diet can help in regulating blood sugar levels, reducing cholesterol, and promoting a healthy liver for improved digestion. These plants are highly beneficial for home use, both in culinary preparations and for their nutritional properties.
5. Mint
Mint plants are excellent additions to home gardens, offering refreshing benefits. The mint leaves provide a cooling sensation and are commonly used for garnishing dishes and preparing beverages. Mint chutney is particularly popular among Indians, and there are various ready-made drinks available with a mint flavor.
To cultivate mint plants, it is essential to maintain moist soil, provide a warm temperature, and ensure they receive bright or partial sunlight. These plants contribute to good digestion, enhance brain function, and serve as a quick remedy for bad breath. They are a valuable addition to any home garden, both for their culinary versatility and health benefits.
6. Ajwain
Ajwain, also known as carom seeds, is a highly versatile plant that offers numerous benefits for home use. Its distinct aromatic flavor can elevate the taste of various Indian curry recipes, adding a delightful twist to your culinary creations.
Furthermore, incorporating ajwain into your diet can have positive effects on your overall health. It aids in managing cholesterol levels, regulating blood pressure, and promoting better digestion. Ajwain is also known for its potential to provide relief from common cold and cough symptoms.
With its multifaceted culinary and medicinal properties, ajwain is a valuable plant to have at home, offering both flavor enhancement and potential health benefits.
7. Giloy
Giloy is widely utilized as an Ayurvedic remedy in Indian households. Prepare a paste using Giloy stems and add it to boiling water to alleviate cough and soothe the throat. This remedy gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to be esteemed. Giloy is regarded as one of the top plants to cultivate at home.
The plant thrives in a pot but necessitates consistent upkeep. Additionally, it aids in the treatment of dengue, indigestion, cardiovascular issues, and diabetes.
8. Lemon Grass
Lemon grass is commonly enjoyed in regular tea by many individuals. This plant thrives in tropical environments, but it can also adapt well to the Indian climate and flourish in a flower pot.
The consumption of lemon grass offers various health benefits. It aids in alleviating menstrual and abdominal pain and has a positive impact on digestion, including conditions such as diarrhea, constipation, and gut-related diseases. It is important to note that there are two varieties available, and it is recommended to choose domestic lemongrass for planting, rather than wild variants.
9. Lavender
Lavenders are exquisite flowering plants that impart a delightful fragrance to your home and offer numerous medicinal advantages. They are extensively utilized in the production of essential oils and various cosmetic items. These plants require moderate sunlight to thrive and are renowned as exceptional indoor flowering plants.
Lavenders possess remarkable healing properties, particularly beneficial for bug bites and burns. Lavender oil has been proven to effectively alleviate anxiety, stress, insomnia, and depression. Additionally, it may provide relief for digestive issues.
10. Ashwagandha
You may have come across various tea brands promoting the inclusion of Ashwagandha in their products. Ashwagandha, a 3000-year-old Ayurvedic medicine, is renowned for its ability to alleviate depression and reduce stress. The roots and berries of this plant hold significant importance.
Different plants offer unique advantages. Some provide exceptional medicinal benefits, while others are beneficial for regular consumption or as beauty products.
The remarkable aspect is that these beneficial plants can easily thrive in challenging climates. Although they require initial care, watering them twice is usually sufficient thereafter. Moreover, all the plants mentioned in this list are readily available online, requiring minimal effort to plant and enjoy their long-term benefits.