Collection: Herb Plants

●Buy Herb Plants Online: Herbs to Grow in Your Garden

When we think versatility, we think herbs! These unassuming leaves are great in kitchens, to treat common ailments, and also in fragrances when used the right way. What more could one want! Many of them are known to enhance the taste in certain dishes while others are used for their medicinal and healing properties. Herb plants have been cultivated worldwide for years for their many benefits. Apart from their physical properties, they also have spiritual significance throughout cultures standing as testimonies to their long-standing importance.

●Herb Plant Types

Different types of herbs have various benefits and here are a few great herbs to grow in your backyard, for aesthetics and other benefits:

1. Ajwain

This Ajwain herb plant, also called carom, is characterized by feathery leaves and small white flowers. These herb seeds are a primary culinary and medicinal component, possessing a pungent, thyme-like aroma and flavor. Ajwain herb benefits are many and the seeds of this plant are very commonly used in Indian cuisine and traditional medicine.

2. Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a tropical grass and herb plant known for its citrusy aroma and flavor. It features tall, slender stems with long, blade-like leaves that give off a lemony scent when crushed. Native to Southeast Asia, it is often used in cooking, herbal teas, and aromatherapy. It also has a ton of medicinal properties.

3. Peppermint

Peppermint is a perennial herb plant with serrated, lance-shaped leaves and small purple flowers clustered in spikes. It has a strong, refreshing aroma due to its high menthol content. Native to Europe and Asia, peppermint thrives in moist soil and spreads vigorously via underground rhizomes. It is valued for its many culinary, medicinal, and aromatic purposes. The uses of herbs are many and the Peppermint plant really proves this point!

4. Betel Leaf

The Betel Leaf plant , also called the Magai Paan, is a perennial vine with heart-shaped, glossy leaves. Its shiny leaves have a distinct spicy flavor and are commonly chewed with betel nut and other ingredients in many cultures for their stimulant effects. The plant thrives in warm, humid climates and is culturally significant.

5. Cilantro

Cilantro, also known as Coriander or Chinese Parsley, is an annual herb plant with delicate, lacy leaves and small white flowers. Its leaves have a pungent, citrusy flavor used in various cuisines worldwide, especially in Latin American, Middle Eastern, and Asian dishes. Cilantro thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.

6. Oregano

Oregano is a regularly used herb in cuisines around the world. Indian spices accept this herb as a major source of great flavor and we all know that the Italian cuisine is super fond of it. This herb plant grows as a small perennial with oval-shaped leaves and clusters of tiny white or pink flowers. It belongs to the mint family and emits a strong, aromatic fragrance.

7. Parsley

Parsley is a biennial herb plant with bright green, deeply lobed leaves and small white flowers. It is known for its fresh, slightly peppery flavor and is used as a garnish and ingredient in various dishes worldwide. Parsley prefers well-drained soil and partial shade, thriving in cooler temperatures and with the right kind of care, these herbs are super easy to grow from Parsley seeds.

●Uses of Herbs: The Different Ways in Which They are Used

There are countless herb benefits that these plants are grown and cultivated for, and here are a few ways in which their benefits are harnessed:

1. For Culinary Purposes

Many herb plants are often renowned and cultivated for their delightful culinary benefits. Herbs are used in culinary pursuits for their ability to enhance flavor, aroma, and visual appeal in dishes. They add depth, complexity, and freshness to recipes, elevating the taste experience. Additionally, herbs often contain beneficial compounds that contribute to health and well-being, making them essential ingredients in cooking.

2. Herbs for Health

Herb benefits go way beyond just culinary ones. They are utilized for medicinal purposes due to their natural compounds containing therapeutic properties. They possess vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support good health. Traditional herbal medicine harnesses their healing potential for common ailments ranging from digestive issues to inflammation, offering holistic and organic remedies for various health conditions.

3. Fragrant & Perfume-Worthy

Herb plants are prized for fragrance-making because of their aromatic oils and compounds. Their natural scents range from floral to herbal, providing a diverse palette for perfumers and aromatherapists. These fragrances evoke emotions, enhance ambiance, and promote relaxation, offering a great natural alternative to chemical-based scents.

●Herbs Benefits: Why Herbs Are So Beloved in the World of Medicine

Herb plants are renowned for their many benefits that we have been talking about so far. Let’s look at some of the major benefits of different types of herbs:

1. Digestive Health Benefits

Herbs like Peppermint, Ginger, and Fennel are known for their digestive properties, helping to relieve symptoms like bloating, gas, and indigestion.

2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Turmeric, Ginger, and Rosemary are examples of herb plants with anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate pain and inflammation in conditions like arthritis.

3. Immune System Support

Herbs such as Echinacea, Garlic, and Elderberry are believed to support the immune system, helping to fight off infections and illnesses.

4. Stress Relief

One of the biggest herb benefits is stress relief! Lavender, Chamomile, and Lemon balm are known for their calming effects, promoting relaxation and reducing stress and anxiety.

5. Respiratory Health

Herbs like Eucalyptus, Thyme, and Licorice root can support respiratory health by soothing coughs, relieving congestion, and promoting easier breathing.

6. Heart Health

Garlic, Hawthorn, and Cinnamon are some more herb plants that may support heart health by helping to lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and improve blood circulation throughout the body.

●Herb Plants Care: Basics of Caring for Herbs

Herb plants are generally fuss-free and do not cause too much of a problem for their caregivers. However, there are always a few rules you must abide by to enable optimal growth and proper nutrient flow for the plants you grow. Here are a few basic guidelines and herb plant care tips to follow:

1. Light Requirements

Most herbs thrive in full sunlight. So, you have to let them get a good dose of sunlight for at least 6-8 hours per day. However, there are some herbs like Parsley & Mint that can tolerate shade light for a few hours everyday if you get them accustomed to it.

2. Watering

Herb plants prefer well-draining soil, so water them regularly but allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions to ensure that the roots do not rot. Also remember to water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the leaves. Always let the excess water drain out of the drainage holes at the bottom to ensure balanced watering & aeration.

3. Soil

Use a well-draining potting mix with organic matter like cow manure, for container-grown herbs or amend your garden soil directly with compost for outdoor herbs. Remember to always ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging and overly moist areas.

4. Fertilization

Herbs generally don't require heavy fertilization. You can feed them with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half-strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. You can also use bone meal to add to the soil to ensure proper and beneficial soil amendment.

5. Pruning

Regularly harvest your herb plants to encourage bushier growth and prevent them from flowering too early. Pinch off the tips of stems to promote branching and remove any dead or yellowing leaves.

6. Pests and Diseases

Remember to always watch out for pests like aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars as they are often found on herbs. So, if you do find anything, you can treat it promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary. Prevent fungal diseases by avoiding overhead watering and providing good air circulation.