Thousands have turned to home gardening as a pastime during the COVID-19 lockdown. A plenitude of research does prove that home gardening provides several benefits, including improved mental health, considerable physical activity and better air quality.
But plants can be more than an ornamentation. There are several greens that can offer other benefits as well. In fact, in a time of crisis, some plants can act as natural remedies and help bring down food expenses. Many require only small spaces inside your home to thrive.
Aloe vera. It needs little attention but provides great healing. Its gel can heal burns and acne, aid in weight loss and help condition your hair and scalp.
Chili pepper. All peppers are worth a try, but the siling labuyo could be the easiest to grow. Sprout the seedlings, transfer on a pot and then, in a few weeks, begin to harvest the spice that helps improve circulation and can also induce a rush of endorphins, or the happy hormones, on a bad day.
Basil and other fresh greens
Basil. It lends spice and tang to food. The oils can lower the risk of heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel conditions. It can also soothe fever, headache, colds and cough.
Mushrooms. Grow them in a dark, moist corner, and produce for your own home. It is a substitute to meat that’s low in calories and high in fiber and potassium.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes. Eat it raw, fry it, bake it, boil it and more. Get your fill of vitamin C, potassium and the antioxidant lycopene. Just plant it in a 6-inch pot and place in a sunny area.
Microgreens. Sprouts can be more nutritive than their full-grown counterparts. Purchase the seeds, such as radishes, kale, beets, basil and dill; grow them on a seedling tray; keep them moist by a sunny windowsill. Harvest once the first leaves pop up.
Okra
Okra. Once it’s fully grown, it can bear fruit nonstop. The okra is low in calories and carbs but rich in protein and fiber. Boost your immune system, manage your blood sugar, and get antioxidants in your system.
Ginger. Plant the root, cover with a little soil, keep moist. It’s a popular folk treatment for nausea and inflammation. It can also bring down blood sugar. Salabat, anyone?
Get health tips and updates from Medicard’s Facebook page.
However, some pains may be beyond natural remedies. When in doubt, Medicard Philippines Inc. gives you the choice to consult a healthcare professional in the comfort of your home, allowing you to avoid exposure to the deadly COVID-19, via the MyPocketDoctor app. Also get health tips and updates by visiting Medicard’s Facebook page or its websites medicardphils.com and medicardlifestyle.com.
Photos from Wikipedia, Old Farmer’s Almanac, Daria Shevtsova from Pexels.