5 Thriving Indian Herbs For Balcony & Apartment Gardens
Introduction
Herbs are not just a flavourful item to add to your cooking. They can provide a better environment in your home and reduce the carbon footprint. Here are the top 5 Indian Herbs you can grow on your balcony or your apartment gardens:
Tulsi
Tulsi holds a significant medicinal value among the herb species. It has the ability to absorb Carbon Dioxide and Carbon Monoxide, the dangerous gases, to purify the air around. When the air is pure, it prevents us from being infected with numerous diseases. Tulsi is also an Adaptogens. Consuming Tulsi will help you manage your stress level to promote your overall well-being. This herb is on top of this list because you can grow Tulsi in a pot or on the ground, and they're easy to maintain. Please ensure there is adequate sunlight and you water the herb regularly.
Mint
Famous for its fragrance and flavour, Mint is often the best choice to include in Tea. But Mint can also help relieve nausea among people. This aromatic herb is known as a decongestant herb as it promotes respiratory health. Did you also know that Mint is a natural repellent for insects like flies and mosquitoes? Planting this herb can eliminate insects like these from your environment. Mint can also improve oral health as its antibacterial properties destroy odour-producing bacteria to freshen your breath. Just like Tulsi, Mint is also easy to grow and maintain. Grow it in drained soil from where it can consume sunlight partially.
Coriander
The common reason to grow Coriander is to take a few from it during cooking to enhance the fragrance. But they bring various other health benefits, and that's why Coriander is on the third spot in this list. Coriander is also similar to Mint for being a natural insect repellent that eliminates insects like bugs and flies. But unlike Mint, Coriander requires moderate sunlight, but be sure to water it regularly. This herb is essential for you if you practice Aromatherapy, as the fragrance of Coriander is pleasant and can help promote relaxation and manage stress levels. Coriander is more than a culinary benefit.
Curry Leaf
You'll find curry leaves in almost every curry in South India, thanks to their unique aroma and nutritional value. But like Coriander, Curry Leaf is more than just a rich addition to the kitchen. If you prefer a traditional way to treat minor infections or allergies, you'll be surprised to know that Curry Leaf is famous for that. In Ayurveda, Curry Leaves are used as an oil or paste to treat skin, digestive, and respiratory issues. Hair Oil from Curry Leaves is the best example, as it can treat hair issues like weak follicles and hair loss. Like other herbs in this list, Curry Leaf is easy to grow and maintain in your Apartment or Home.
Methi
Also known as Fenugreek, Methi is one of the most commonly used herbs in Indian Kitchens. Since there are deep roots in a Methi plant, they prevent erosion and strengthen the soil's structure. Like Curry Leaf, Methi is known for its Ayurvedic benefits. Consuming Methi will improve digestion, help with lactation issues, and improve our heart health. If you're planning for Organic Farming, including Methi with other beneficial plants and herbs would be ideal. Planting Methi at our homes takes little to no work as they require regular watering and moderate light from the sun.
Conclusion
Although Indian Herbs are known for their nutritional value, there are many more environmental benefits like the ones mentioned above. Be it to help purify the air, produce clean oxygen, or reduce carbon footprint. The range of benefits from herbs is insane. Since they also give a greenery appeal to homes, planting herbs at our homes is a healthy option to incorporate.
Pro Tip:- Before planting these herbs, check if you're allergic or have any unhealthy reactions.