Grow Medicinal Herbs Indoors

If you’re looking for ways to boost your health and well-being, consider growing some medicinal herbs indoors. There are many benefits to growing medicinal herbs indoors. Not only can you have a constant supply of fresh herbs on hand, but you can also control the environment in which they grow. This means that you can ensure they get the proper amount of sunlight and water, and that they are not exposed to too much heat or cold.

“The greatest wealth is Health” – Virgil

Our guest author today is Michelle Wilde from “The Indoor Plants Channel”. Michelle is an expert on indoor plants and shares her passion for plants with us. 

So without further ado, let’s get started. 

5 Benefits Of Growing Medicinal Herbs Indoors

1. They’re Easy to Maintain

Medicinal herbs are generally very easy to take care of. Most of them don’t require a lot of water or sunlight, and can even tolerate some neglect. This makes them perfect for indoor growing, especially if you don’t have a lot of time or space for a garden.

2. They Can Improve Your Health

Many medicinal herbs have been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. From headaches to stomach problems, there’s an herb that can help. And since they’re all-natural, you don’t have to worry about any nasty side effects.

3. They’re Beautiful

In addition to being good for your health, medicinal herbs are also quite beautiful. Some, like lavender, have lovely flowers, while others, like mint, have pretty leaves. No matter what your taste, you’re sure to find an herb that you’ll love looking at.

4. They Can Make Your Home Smell Nice

Not only do medicinal herbs look nice, but many of them also have a pleasant scent. This is especially true of herbs like lavender and rosemary. So not only will they make your home look nicer, but they’ll make it smell nicer, too!

5. They’re Easy to Find

These days, you can find medicinal herbs at just about any store that sells plants. You can also find them online, which makes it even easier to get started with indoor herb gardening.

5 Best Medicinal Herbs To Keep Indoors

1. Basil

Basil is an herb that has been used medicinally for centuries. The leaves, stem, and flowers of the plant are all used to make medicine. Basil is most commonly used for stomach issues, including gas, indigestion, and nausea. 

It is also used to treat respiratory problems, such as colds, bronchitis, and asthma. In addition, basil can be used topically to treat skin conditions, such as acne and eczema.

Recently, basil has been the subject of research studies for its potential medicinal use. Some of the potential health benefits of basil include reducing inflammation, lowering cholesterol levels, and protecting against heart disease and cancer. While more research is needed to confirm these potential health benefits, basil is a safe and delicious herb that can be enjoyed in many different dishes.

[If you can find lettuce leaf basil, it is particularly pretty – Ed.]

2. Lavender

The lavender herb is most commonly known for its calming and relaxing effects on the body, making it a popular choice for aromatherapy. However, lavender oil also has many other medicinal uses. Lavender oil can be used to treat a wide variety of skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It is also effective in healing cuts, scrapes, and burns. When applied to the skin, lavender oil helps to speed up the healing process and reduce scarring. 

In addition to its topical uses, lavender oil can also be inhaled or ingested to treat a variety of ailments. It is commonly used to treat headaches, anxiety, and insomnia. When ingested, lavender oil can also help to settle an upset stomach.

Studies suggest that lavender may be effective in treating anxiety, insomnia, and depression. In one study, patients with anxiety disorders who took a lavender supplement for eight weeks reported significantly lower levels of anxiety than those who took a placebo. 

Lavender may also be helpful in treating insomnia. In a small study of people with insomnia, those who took a lavender supplement for two weeks reported better sleep quality than those who took a placebo.

3. Peppermint

Peppermint (Mentha × piperita, also known as M. balsamea Willd.) is a hybrid mint, a cross between watermint and spearmint. Indigenous to Europe and the Mediterranean region, the plant is now widely distributed and cultivated in many regions of the world. It is found in nearly all temperate climates, including India, North America, and Australia. 

Peppermint is used as a flavoring in foods and beverages, and as a dietary supplement for its purported health benefits. Peppermint oil is also used in aromatherapy and as an ingredient in some cosmetics and personal care products.

Research studies have shown that peppermint oil can be effective in treating nausea, vomiting, and indigestion. It is also known to help relieve muscle pain, tension headaches, and menstrual cramps.

4. Rosemary

Rosemary is a herb that has been used medicinally for centuries. It is native to the Mediterranean region and has been used to treat a variety of ailments. Rosemary is a member of the mint family and has a strong, pungent aroma. The herb is used to flavor food, as well as to make teas and extracts. 

Rosemary is a rich source of antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral properties. It has been shown to improve circulation, boost the immune system, and relieve pain. Rosemary can be taken internally or used externally. When used externally, it can be applied as a compress or used in baths.

A 2010 study found that rosemary essential oil was effective in treating Alzheimer’s disease. The study found that rosemary essential oil improved cognitive function and reduced inflammation in the brain. Rosemary is also an effective treatment for indigestion. A 2011 study found that rosemary essential oil was effective in treating indigestion and bloating. The study found that rosemary essential oil reduced symptoms of indigestion and bloating by up to 50%.

5. Thyme

The thyme herb is a popular choice for many people looking for a natural way to treat various medical conditions. This herb has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, and recent studies have shown that it can be effective in treating a wide variety of conditions. 

Thyme is most commonly used to treat respiratory conditions such as bronchitis and asthma. It can also be used to treat digestive issues such as indigestion and diarrhea. Additionally, thyme has been shown to be effective in treating skin conditions such as acne and eczema. And finally, thyme has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it a good choice for treating wounds and infections.

One research study, published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, looked at the effects of thyme essential oil on rats with induced bronchitis. The rats were given either a placebo or thyme oil for 10 days and then observed for another 10 days. The results showed that those rats given thyme oil had significantly less inflammation and mucus production than those given the placebo.

[Thyme water and thyme tea are highly recommended by the Medical Medium for fighting off viruses. – Ed.]

How To Grow Medicinal Herbs Indoors

1. Start with a clean slate. Make sure your containers are clean and free of any residue. If you’re using recycled containers, give them a good wash with soapy water and a rinse with a diluted bleach solution.
2. Fill your containers with a quality potting mix. You can find potting mixes specifically designed for herbs at your local gardening center.
3. Sow your seeds or plant your transplants. Once your plants are in the ground, water them well.
4. Place your containers in a sunny spot. Most herbs need at least six hours of sunlight per day. If you don’t have a spot that gets that much sun, you can supplement with grow lights.
5. Keep an eye on your plants and water as needed. When the soil begins to dry out, water your plants until the water runs out the bottom of the container.

With just a little bit of care, you can grow healthy and thriving medicinal herbs indoors.

Expert Ideas

1. Make a medicinal herb tea by steeping fresh or dried herbs in hot water.
2. Create a tincture or extract by steeping herbs in high-proof alcohol or vinegar.
3. Use fresh or dried herbs to make a healing salve or balm.
4. Add fresh or dried herbs to homemade potpourri or sachet bags.
5. Make a herbal infusion by steeping herbs in oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of growing medicinal herbs indoors?

One of the benefits of growing medicinal herbs indoors is that you can have a constant supply of fresh herbs. Herbs can be used to add flavor to food, as well as for their medicinal properties.

What are some of the most popular medicinal herbs to grow indoors?

Some of the most popular medicinal herbs to grow indoors include basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. These herbs can be used to make teas, tinctures, and oils.

What are some tips for growing medicinal herbs indoors?

Some tips for growing medicinal herbs indoors include choosing a sunny spot, using a well-draining potting mix, and watering regularly. It is also important to harvest herbs regularly to encourage new growth.

What are some common problems with growing medicinal herbs indoors?

Some common problems with growing medicinal herbs indoors include pests, diseases, and poor drainage. If you are having problems with your plants, it is important to consult with a knowledgeable person to get advice on how to fix the problem.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a way to improve your health and well-being, consider growing some medicinal herbs indoors. There are many benefits to doing so, and you’ll be able to enjoy fresh, healthy herbs all year long. 

So what are you waiting for? Start growing your own medicinal herbs indoors today!

About the Author

Michelle Wilde is a stay-at-home mom and avid plant lover. Armed with a postgraduate degree in Computer Science (no kidding!), she loves researching plants and landscapes. When she is not caring for her 4 kids, she spends time on her passion for plants. She blogs at “The Indoor Plants Channel”, the trusted source for indoor plants.