5 Immunity-Boosting Plants You Can Easily Grow at Home

Do you yearn for the freshness of home-grown herbs and vegetables, particularly those that can supercharge your immunity? Imagine stepping into your kitchen garden, plucking vibrant leaves, and adding them to your daily meals. It's not only possible but also incredibly rewarding. With just a bit of space in your kitchen balcony or windowsill and a sprinkle of love and care, you can cultivate a garden that nourishes your health and palate.

Tulsi (Holy Basil):

Tulsi, often referred to as the 'Queen of Herbs,' has a remarkable track record of protecting our bodies from various infections and diseases, including those affecting the heart, liver, skin, and kidneys. Here are some of the incredible benefits of Tulsi:

Þ Tulsi enhances your immune system's resilience.

Þ It's effective in reducing fever and alleviating pain.

Þ Tulsi offers relief from common respiratory ailments.

Þ This herb has stress-reducing properties and can help regulate blood pressure.

Þ Tulsi supports healthy liver function.

Þ It promotes skin and hair health.

Þ Tulsi can also serve as a natural insect repellent.

Þ Research suggests potential anti-cancer properties.

 

How to Consume Tulsi:

You can enjoy Tulsi by consuming its leaves raw, plucked fresh from the plant, or by adding them to your tea. You can also prepare a herbal kadha from Tulsi leaves.

Curry Leaves:

Enriched with essential nutrients like Vitamin A, B, C, and B12, curry leaves are a nutritional powerhouse. They also provide iron and calcium, which can bolster your immunity. Here are creative ways to incorporate curry leaves into your kitchen:

Þ Sauté curry leaves in ghee at high heat and then add the fragrant mixture to any dish of your choice.

Þ Combine fresh or dried curry leaves with other spices like red chili, turmeric, and cumin seeds to create a flavourful seasoning blend.

Þ Add diced or crumbled dried curry leaves as a topping to savoury dishes for an extra burst of flavor.

Þ Cook curry leaves in hot oil, and then use the infused oil as a dip or drizzle for crusty bread.

Þ Enhance the flavors of your chutneys and sauces with curry leaves.

Þ Experiment by tossing chopped curry leaves into savory baked goods like bread and crackers.

Þ Curry leaves are versatile and can elevate the taste of various dishes, so don't hesitate to get creative in the kitchen.

 

3. Mint Leaves:

Mint, often associated with refreshing mocktails, chutneys, or raita, offers numerous benefits beyond its delightful taste. Here are some lesser-known advantages of mint:

Þ Mint aids in digestion and can soothe an upset stomach.

Þ It can help alleviate the symptoms of the common cold.

Þ Mint's aroma can alleviate headaches.

Þ Mint can assist in weight management.

Þ Mint has stress-relieving properties.

Does Mint Regrow After Cutting?

To ensure a steady supply of fresh mint, cut the mint stem just below a node (where a leaf grows) on the plant. Remove most of the leaves, leaving only the top ones. Place a few cuttings in a glass jar with about an inch of water. As the mint grows, transplant it into a larger pot or the ground.

4. Lemon Grass:

Lemon grass offers a range of benefits, making it a valuable addition to your garden. Here's why you should consider growing it:

Þ Lowers Cholesterol: Lemon grass can contribute to cholesterol reduction.

Þ Detoxifies the Body: It has detoxifying properties.

Þ Anticancer Potential: Research suggests potential anticancer properties.

Þ Stomach Disorders: Lemon grass can help with various stomach issues.

Þ Treats Insomnia: It's known to alleviate insomnia. Þ Prevents Anemia: Lemon grass is beneficial in preventing anemia.

Þ Reduces Fever: It can help lower fever.

Þ Boosts Immunity: Lemon grass is a natural immune system booster. You can brew dried lemon grass leaves for tea, harnessing its antioxidant, detoxifying, and diuretic properties. These collectively help remove toxins from the body, potentially aiding in weight management.

How to Care for Your Lemon Grass Plant:

Keep the soil barely moist, especially during the slow growth periods in winter. Alternatively, store a pot of cut-down lemon grass in a cool, dark place, like a basement. Water it sparingly during winter to keep the roots alive. In summer, place the pot in a bright spot and resume regular watering.

5. Turmeric:

The Golden Spice: Turmeric, known as "Indian saffron" due to its vibrant yellow colour, boasts a rich history of medicinal use spanning nearly 4000 years. Turmeric contains curcumin, a yellow compound used to colour foods and cosmetics. Some of its uses include pain and inflammation relief, management of osteoarthritis, hay fever, depression, high cholesterol, liver health, and itchiness.

 

How to Grow Turmeric at Home:

To cultivate turmeric, you'll need a 14- to 18-inch pot or planter for every 6 to 8 inches of rhizome, along with ample potting soil. Initially, it's more practical to sprout your rhizomes in smaller containers. Once they have a few leaves and are growing well, transplant them into larger containers or the ground.

As you embark on the journey of cultivating these immunity-boosting plants at home, you're not only enhancing your well-being but also embracing the joys of home gardening. These plants, rich in health benefits, are ready to thrive under your care. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a novice, you can embark on this green adventure and savour the incredible flavours and health advantages these plants bring.

So, start your garden today and reap the rewards of a greener, healthier life! Feel free to share your gardening experiences or any questions you may have in the comments below. Happy gardening!

 

Lopaa K Vyas