Refer to Ayurveda don’t underestimate the power of plants. In the early age our generation there are no medicines. Peoples are getting cure using various Medicinal plants. Herbal medicines are natural. It has no side effects. From the golden page of Indian history CHARAKA is famous for his research on Medicinal plants. He discovered many useful plants for their medicinal use. According to his name there is a novel of plant science called CHARAKA SAMHITA. Many critical diseases can be totally cure using various plants, flowers & their roots. In this session let us discuss some of List of Medicinal Plants and their uses.
Introduction to Indoor Herbs
Indoor herbs have gained popularity not only for their culinary uses but also for their medicinal properties and aesthetic appeal. Among the numerous herbs suitable for indoor cultivation, Tulsi, Neem, Aloe Vera, and Ginger stand out due to their diverse benefits and ease of care. This article delves into each of these herbs, exploring their characteristics, health benefits, and tips for indoor cultivation.
Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum)
Tulsi is a holy plant. She is rich with fungicidal, germicidal, anti-bacterial & anti-biotic properties. Leaves of Tulsi are widely used in the preparation of Ayurvedic medicines.
After everyday bath practice to eat 7 tulsi leaves. Tulsi is very effective to control blood glucose levels. Regular use of tulsi is useful for diabetics patents. Tulsi is having strong anti-oxidant formula called Eugenol. This content in tulsi helps to protect the heart by keeping blood pressure under control. Cortisol is a hormone which is responsible to control stress in life. Tulsi is very effective to maintain the normal levels of this hormone.
In case of your baby is in fever boil few Tulsi leaves with powdered cardamom. Mix this with sugar & milk. In each 2 to 3 hours tell your baby to drink this. It helps to cure fever. In the matter of cold fever for adults take 10 tulsi leaves mix it with original honey. Eat 3 times a day.
In the matter respiratory system disorders like bronchitis, influenza, asthma & cough Tulsi is a very useful medicine. Mix tulsi leaves with honey & ginger. Eat this 3 times a day.
For mouth freshness & oral disinfectant Tulsi is a very good home remedy.
### Growing Tulsi Indoors
To cultivate Tulsi indoors, choose a pot with good drainage and use well-draining potting soil. Place the plant in a sunny location, ideally near a south-facing window where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight daily. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch, ensuring that excess water drains away to prevent root rot. Pruning the plant regularly encourages bushier growth and prevents it from flowering too soon, which can diminish the flavor of the leaves.
Neem (Azadirachta Indica)
In Indian tradition thousand years back the every part of a neem plant is used as medicine. Neem is rich with Antiulcer, Antifertility, Antimalarial, Antifungal, Antibacterial, Antiviral, Anticancer & Antioxidant activities. Neem leafs are used for Leprosy, eye problems, Intestinal worms & skin ulcer. Fruits of a neem plant can be used to prevent Piles, Intestinal worms, Urinary disorder, diabetes & wounds. Especially neem is very effective for Skin diseases.
Characteristics
Neem is a fast-growing tree native to the Indian subcontinent, known for its glossy green leaves and fragrant white flowers. While it is often grown outdoors, neem can be cultivated indoors in pots, making it accessible for those with limited outdoor space. The leaves have a distinctive bitter taste and are highly valued for their medicinal properties.
Neem leafs are very useful to cure dandruff problem. Boil a pan full Neem leafs well. When the boiled water will look brown switch off the gas. Cool it & wash your hair & scalp areas. Do this 3 times a week. This activity not only relief you from dandruff problem but also it helps to maintain strengthens hair & promotes hair growth.
For skin diseases like pimples, itchiness, redness & irritation Neem leafs are very effective medicine to cure these harmful bacterias. Prepare a paste with Neem leafs apply this on affected skin areas. Eat 7 Neem leafs everyday. Internally it gives infection free healthy skin. To remove acne scars Neem oil is rich with fatty-acid. Regular use of Neem oil removes spots from skin.
Neem plants in our garden helps to destroy several viruses from environment. Indirectly the presence of neem plant near our home helps to prevent us from many Airborne disease.
Health Benefits
Neem is renowned for its antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It is often used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including skin conditions, dental issues, and digestive disorders. Neem leaves can be consumed in teas or applied as a paste to the skin to alleviate acne and other dermatological issues. Furthermore, neem oil is a popular natural pesticide for gardening, providing a chemical-free alternative to harmful pesticides.
### Growing Neem Indoors
To grow neem indoors, select a container that is at least 12 inches deep and use a well-draining potting mix. Neem requires plenty of sunlight, so place the pot by a window that receives full sun. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, and ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Neem is relatively low-maintenance, but regular pruning can help manage its size and promote healthy growth.
Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis)
Aloe Vera is also known as “plant of immortality” by the ancient Egyptians. This is an amazing plant from our garden to produce several medicines. Aloe Vera is used for Burns, Wounds & cuts, Eczema & Skin allergies. In the matter of digestive problems Aloe Vera juice is very useful. Aloe Vera is rich with antioxidants & also known as natural immunity enhancers. Consuming Aloe Vera juice regularly boosts our immune system to fight against several disease.
Characteristics
Aloe Vera is a succulent plant characterized by its thick, fleshy leaves that are typically green to grey-green in color. It is well-known for its ability to thrive in various conditions, making it an ideal choice for indoor gardening. Aloe Vera produces yellow tubular flowers when grown under optimal conditions, although it is primarily cultivated for its leaves.
Aloe Vera juice is very effective for the treatment of acne problems. Apply pure Aloe Vera gel on your pores area. Keep it for 10 to 15 minutes & wash your skin well. Regular use of Aloe Vera gel removes spots & dark circles from face.
Aloe Vera is act like a pain relief for psoriasis problems. It keeps skin cool.
Health Benefits
Aloe Vera is famous for its soothing properties, particularly for skin care. The gel extracted from its leaves is used to treat burns, cuts, and skin irritations. Additionally, Aloe Vera is known to aid digestion and can be consumed as a juice for its detoxifying effects. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties contribute to overall health and wellness, making it a popular choice in natural remedies.
It was proved Aloe Vera can used as a great aftershave for men. The anti-biotic formula in Aloe Vera protects our skin from bacterial infections.
If you are suffering with Hair loss problems Aloe Vera can be a very effective solution for you. Apply Aloe Vera juice to your scalp area for half an hour and rinse properly. It helps in better hair growth.
If you are a diabetics patient in priority basis drink Aloe Vera juice. It is effective to lower blood sugar levels.
### Growing Aloe Vera Indoors
To grow Aloe Vera indoors, choose a pot with ample drainage holes and use a cactus or succulent potting mix. Aloe requires bright, indirect sunlight, so placing it near a window that filters light is ideal. Water the plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, as overwatering can lead to root rot. Aloe Vera is a resilient plant that requires minimal care, making it perfect for beginners.
Ginger (Zingiber Officinale)
Ginger is a popular Medicinal plant in Asia. Ginger is useful in treatment of chronic inflammation diseases. In case of airsick or nauseous problem chew ginger with little honey.
In the matter of Joint Pains ginger oil is very helpful. While bath mix ginger oil with a bucket of water. Regular use of ginger oil in bath relax in muscles and joints pain.
In Cold Fever if you have sore throat boil ginger with a half glass of water. Add some turmeric powder & salt. 2 to 3 times a day do gargling using this.
Characteristics
Ginger is a flowering plant whose rhizome, or underground stem, is widely used as a spice and medicine. While it is typically grown outdoors in tropical climates, Ginger can also be cultivated indoors, provided the right conditions are met. The plant features long, narrow leaves and can reach a height of three feet.
Health Benefits
Ginger is highly regarded for its medicinal properties, particularly its ability to alleviate nausea and digestive issues. It has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, making it beneficial for reducing muscle pain and soreness. Additionally, ginger may help lower blood sugar levels and improve heart health. Its versatility in culinary applications makes it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.
### Growing Ginger Indoors
To grow Ginger indoors, start with a fresh rhizome from a nursery or grocery store. Choose a wide pot with good drainage and fill it with rich, well-draining potting soil. Plant the ginger rhizome about two inches deep, with the buds facing up. Ginger prefers a warm and humid environment, so placing the pot in a warm area with indirect sunlight is essential. Water the plant regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not soggy. Ginger typically takes several months to mature, but the wait is worthwhile for its flavorful rhizomes.
Conclusion
Cultivating indoor herbs such as Tulsi, Neem, Aloe Vera, and Ginger not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of living spaces but also provides numerous health benefits. Each of these herbs possesses unique properties that contribute to overall wellness and can be easily grown in pots indoors. By following proper care guidelines, anyone can enjoy the rewards of homegrown herbs, whether for culinary, medicinal, or ornamental purposes. Embracing indoor gardening can lead to a healthier lifestyle and a deeper connection with nature, making it a fulfilling endeavor for individuals and families alike.