India is home to many medicinal and herbaceous plants. These plants grow well in different climates across the country. They have been part of home remedies and healing traditions for more than thousands of years. Tulsi, aloe vera, mint, and neem are just a few well-known examples. These herbal plants are easy to grow at home. They need little care and give many benefits. Some can be used to treat small health problems like colds or skin issues. Others keep pests away or add a nice smell to your space. Keeping herbal plants at home is good for your health and the environment. It also connects you to nature and old traditions. In this blog, we will explore more about herbaceous plants and why they deserve a place in your home.
34 Powerful Herbal Plants to Keep at Home in India
1. Tulsi (Holy Basil)
Tulsi is a green leafy plant and is easily found in many Indian homes. It is also called Holy Basil as it is a sacred plant for Indians. It has a strong smell and a slightly spicy taste. The herbaceous plant grows easily in pots or gardens. It needs sunlight and regular water. Tulsi has small oval shaped green leaves and tiny purple flowers. It has strong medicinal value.
How to use: Drink Tulsi tea or chew fresh leaves.
Uses/Benefits:
- Boosts immunity
- Relieves cough and cold
- Supports respiratory health
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Fights infections
- Purifies blood
- Improves digestion
- Helps in managing diabetes
- Acts as a natural detoxifier
- Supports heart health
- Promotes oral health
- Helps in skin problems like acne
- Keeps mosquitoes away
- Reduces fever
- Aids in weight loss
2. Mint (Pudina)
Mint, also called pudina, is a green leafy plant. It has a fresh smell and a cool taste. The leaves are soft and grow in bunches. Mint grows well in warm weather and needs water. It is easy to grow at home. The plant spreads quickly and looks bright and healthy. It is a refreshing herb used in food and medicine.
Water: Needs regular watering Sun: Partial to full sun
How to use: Use fresh in chutney or boil for tea.
Uses/Benefits:
- Helps in digestion
- Freshens breath
- Soothes headaches
- Eases cold and cough
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Has anti-inflammatory properties
- Rich in antioxidants
- Supports oral health
- May help with skin problems
- Boosts immunity
3. Coriander (Dhaniya)
Coriander (Dhaniya) is a small green plant. It is a common kitchen herb with seeds and leaves used. It has soft, delicate leaves and a mild smell. The plant grows well in sunlight and needs regular watering. Dhaniya is easy to grow medicinal plant at home. Coriander grows quickly and looks fresh. Its tiny seeds can also grow into new plants.
Water: Moderate Sun: Full sun
How to use: Use fresh leaves in cooked vegetables, curry, chutney or boil seeds in water.
Uses/Benefits:
- helps in digestion
- may reduce inflammation
- supports heart health
- good for skin health
- may lower blood sugar
- rich in antioxidants
- helps fight infections
- supports brain function
- may protect the liver
- can improve sleep quality
4. Fenugreek (Methi)
Fenugreek (Methi) is a green leafy plant. It has small, flat leaves and a mild smell. This medicinal plant grows well in cool weather and needs sunlight. It is easy to grow in containers. Fenugreek also has small yellow seeds. It is fast-growing herb used in Indian dishes.
Water: Moderate Sun: Full sun
How to use: Eat sprouted seeds or cooked leaves.
Uses/Benefits:
- rich in iron, fiber, and vitamins
- improves digestion
- May support healthy blood sugar levels
- good for hair and skin health
- supports heart health
- help reduce inflammation
- boosts general energy and wellness
5. Curry Leaf (Kadi Patta)
Curry leaf plant has shiny, fragrant leaves. The plant grows well in warm weather and needs sunlight. Fresh curry leaves are often picked from the plant in Indian homes for various purpose. They are added to food to enhance taste.
Water: Less frequent Sun: Full sun
How to use: Use fresh leaves in cooking or make oil for hair.
Uses/Benefits:
- rich in vitamins A, B, C, and E
- supports healthy digestion
- controls blood sugar levels
- good for hair and skin health
- contains antioxidants
- supports heart health
- helps reduce inflammation
6. Lemongrass
Lemongrass is a tall grass with long, thin leaves. It has a fresh lemon-like smell. The herbaceous plant grows well in warm weather and needs sunlight. In Indian homes, lemongrass is easily available in garden or balcony. Its fresh leaves are added to drinks or cooking. It adds a natural fragrance and flavor.
Water: Regular watering Sun: Full sun
How to use: Boil chopped leaves to make tea.
Uses/Benefits:
- rich in antioxidants
- helps in digestion
- supports healthy skin
- refreshes and energizes the body
- helps reduce stress
- supports natural detox
- has a pleasant aroma that uplifts mood
7. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a thick, green succulent plant with juicy leaves. It can be grown well in home from cuttings. The leaves have a clear gel inside. In Indian homes, Aloe Vera plant can be found near windows or in balconies. The fresh gel is often taken directly from the leaf and used at home.
Water: Less water, drought-tolerant Sun: Partial to full sun
How to use: Apply gel on skin or drink small amount of juice.
Uses/Benefits:
- soothes skin and helps in healing
- keeps skin moisturized
- supports hair health
- aids digestion
- boosts immunity
- helps reduce inflammation
- contains vitamins and antioxidants
8. Giloy (Guduchi)
Giloy or Tinospora cordifolia is a climbing herbaceous plant and has heart-shaped green leaves. It grows well in warm weather and needs support to climb. The stem is thick and strong. It is a low maintenance that stays green throughout the year.
Water: Moderate Sun: Full sun
How to use: Boil stem in water and drink.
Uses/Benefits:
- boosts immunity
- supports respiratory health
- helps manage fever
- improves digestion
- reduces stress and anxiety
- supports healthy blood sugar levels
- has anti-inflammatory properties
- rich in antioxidants
9. Neem (Margosa)
Neem is a tall tree with small green leaves. It grows well in hot weather and needs sunlight. The leaves have a strong, bitter smell. Neem trees are common in Indian villages and cities. Many people plant them near homes or in gardens. The tree stays green most of the year and needs little care. Its leaves, bark, and seeds are very beneficial. People collect its leaves for daily use.
Water: Low, drought-tolerant Sun: Full sun
How to use: Chew leaves or use neem paste on skin.
Uses/Benefits:
- purifies blood
- supports healthy skin
- helps fight infections
- promotes oral health
- keeps insects away
- supports hair health
- boosts immunity
- has antibacterial and antifungal properties
10. Ashwagandha (Indian ginseng)
Ashwagandha is a common ayurvedic herb with oval leaves and red berries. It grows in dry and sunny places. The roots of the plant are thick and strong. Ashwagandha needs little water and care. People often dry its roots and store them for later use. It has been a part of traditional Indian homes for many years.
Water: Low to moderate Sun: Full sun
How to use: Use dried root powder with milk or water.
Uses/Benefits:
- helps reduce stress and anxiety
- boosts energy levels
- supports better sleep
- improves focus and memory
- strengthens immunity
- supports muscle strength
- helps balance hormones
- promotes overall well-being
11. Brahmi (Water Hyssop)
Brahmi is a small green herb with soft, oval leaves. It grows well in moist soil and needs some sunlight. The plant spreads close to the ground. It is often seen in Indian homes, especially in herbal gardens. It stays fresh and green for a long time.
Water: Requires regular moisture Sun: Partial sunHow to use: Use leaves in tea or make juice.
Uses/Benefits:
- improves memory and focus
- reduces stress and anxiety
- supports brain health
- helps with better sleep
- boosts immunity
- has antioxidant properties
- supports healthy skin
- may help reduce inflammation
12. Gotu Kola (Mandukaparni)
Gotu Kola, also known as Indian pennywort, is a small green herb. It has round, fan-shaped leaves. The plant grows in moist soil and shady areas. Gotu Kola spreads quickly and is easy to grow. The fresh leaves are soft and can be picked by hand.
Water: Requires moist soil Sun: Partial shadeHow to use: Make paste or drink juice of leaves.
Uses/Benefits:
- supports brain function
- improves memory and focus
- helps reduce stress and anxiety
- promotes healthy skin
- heals wound
- supports blood circulation
- has anti-inflammatory properties
- boosts overall mental wellness
13. Sarpagandha (Indian snakeroot)
Sarpagandha is a leafy herb with long leaves. It grows well in warm places with some shade. The serpentine wood has small pink or white flowers and thick yellowish roots. It needs regular care to grow well. The roots are usually dried and kept for later use.
Water: Regular watering Sun: Partial shadeHow to use: Use root powder as directed by doctor.
Uses/Benefits:
- supports healthy blood pressure
- helps calm the mind
- promotes better sleep
- reduces stress and anxiety
- supports heart health
- helps in relaxing the nerves
- may aid in managing mood disorders
- has natural sedative properties
14. Turmeric (Haldi)
Turmeric is a yellow herb and spice that grows under the ground. It comes from a root (rhizome), which looks like ginger. The Haldi plant has broad green leaves and grows well in warm places. It is commonly grown and used in Indian homes. The root is dried and stored after harvesting. It has a strong, earthy smell.
Water: Moderate Sun: Full sunHow to use: Add haldi powder in food or milk.
Uses/Benefits:
- supports healthy skin
- reduces inflammation
- boosts immunity
- aids digestion
- rich in antioxidants
- supports joint health
- heals wound
- improves liver function
15. Ginger (Adrak)
Ginger is a well-known medicinal plant. It grows under the ground and looks like a thick, knotted root. The plant has long green leaves and small yellow flowers. Ginger grows well in warm, moist soil. The fresh root has a strong smell and spicy taste. It is fondly used in India in making tea (adrak wali chai). Ginger is dried in the sun to make saunth or ginger powder. This dried form of ginger is often used in Indian kitchens for cooking and home remedies.
Water: Regular watering Sun: Partial sunHow to use: Use fresh or dry in tea and food.
Uses/Benefits:
- improves digestion
- reduces nausea
- boosts immunity
- has anti-inflammatory properties
- relieves cold and cough
- boosts energy and warmth
- supports heart health
- contains antioxidants
16. Garlic (Lahsun)
Garlic is a small medicinal plant that grows under the ground. It has a bulb made of many small cloves. The plant has long green leaves and white flowers. Garlic grows well in cool weather and needs loose soil. It is easy to grow at home. The garlic cloves have a strong smell and sharp taste.
Water: Moderate Sun: Full sunHow to use: Eat raw or use in cooking.
Uses/Benefits:
- supports heart health
- controls blood pressure
- boosts immunity
- improves digestion
- has antibacterial and antiviral properties
- reduces cholesterol
- improves respiratory health
- contains antioxidants
17. Ajwain (Carom)
Ajwain, also called Carom, is a small green plant with soft leaves. It grows well in sunlight and needs little care. The plant has a strong smell and tiny flowers. Its seeds are small and brown. This plant is valued in many Indian homes for its medicinal properties and fresh leaves.
Water: Moderate Sun: Full sunHow to use: Boil seeds in water or chew after meals.
Uses/Benefits:
- improves digestion
- relieves bloating
- boosts immunity
- eases cough
- freshens breath
- reduces acidity
- fights infection
- supports metabolism
18. Bay Leaf (Tej Patta)
Bay Leaf is a small tree with shiny, dark green leaves. The leaves have a strong, pleasant smell. They are picked, dried, and stored for later use. The plant has smooth bark. Bay leaves are an important part of many Indian kitchens and are known for their natural fragrance.
Water: Low to moderate Sun: Full sunHow to use: Use in food, soups or tea.
Uses/Benefits:
- boosts digestion
- improves appetite
- reduces stress
- freshens breath
- improves immunity
- fights inflammation
- relieves cold
- balances blood sugar
19. Hibiscus
Hibiscus has many medicinal and herbal properties. The plant is rich in antioxidants, which protect the body from damage. The dried petals are often used in herbal preparations and teas.
Water: Regular watering Sun: Full sunHow to use: Use flowers in oil, henna or drink as tea.
Uses/Benefits:
- boosts immunity
- supports digestion
- lowers cholesterol
- controls blood pressure
- improves liver
- rich antioxidants
- strengthens hair
- add natural red tint to henna
- reduces dandruff
- reduces menstrual cramps
20. Marigold
Marigold is a common flowering plant in Indian homes. It has orange or yellow blooms. Marigold has natural healing properties. The petals are often dried and used in herbal mixtures. It is also beneficial for skin and hair care. Marigold is valued in many herbal practices.
Water: Moderate Sun: Full sunHow to use: Use crushed petals or make paste, make herbal tea.
Uses/Benefits:
- heals wounds
- soothes skin
- reduces swelling
- fights bacteria
- improves glow
- softens hair
- boosts immunity
- reduces rashes
- treats inflammation
21. Kalmegh (Green Chirayata)
Kalmegh, also known as King of Bitters, is a bitter medicinal herb. It has thin green leaves and small white or purple flowers. The plant is often used in traditional herbal mixtures. Its leaves and stems are dried and stored. Kalmegh is widely used in Ayurvedic and herbal remedies.
Water: Regular Sun: Full sunHow to use: Drink as decoction or use in capsules.
Uses/Benefits:
- boosts immunity
- supports liver health
- improves digestion
- purifies blood
- fights infections
- reduces fever
- controls sugar
- aids detoxification
22. Bhumi Amla ( Phyllanthus Niruri )
Bhumi Amla, also known as Gale of the Wind, is a small green herb with soft leaves and tiny fruits under the branches. It grows close to the ground. It is often used in traditional remedies. The whole plant—leaves, stem, and root—is dried and stored. It helps in reducing the risk of kidney stones, which is why it is also known as the "stone breaker" herb.
Water: Moist soil needed Sun: Partial sunHow to use: Eat raw, dry the whole plant and make powder or make herbal tea.
Uses/Benefits:
- supports liver health
- improves digestion
- controls blood sugar
- improves respiratory health
- purifies blood
- supports kidney health
- heals wounds and ulcers
- reduces joint pain
23. Indian Borage (Cuban Oregano)
Indian Borage or Indian mint is a green herb with thick and soft leaves. It has a strong smell, similar to oregano. The herbaceous plant grows low and spreads wide. Its juicy leaves are often crushed or dried for use. Indian Borage is often confused with the Carom plant due to its smell, but it is a different species and does not produce ajwain seeds. It is also known by other names like broad leaf thyme, soup mint, and Spanish thyme.
Water: Regular watering Sun: Partial sunHow to use: Chew leaves or boil for tea.
Uses/Benefits:
- supports respiratory health
- soothes cough
- aids digestion
- reduces inflammation
- relieves cold
- boosts immunity
- eases throat irritation
- helps chest congestion
24. Insulin Plant (Fiery Costus)
The Insulin Plant is a leafy green herb with long, narrow leaves and orange flowers. It grows low and spreads slowly. People dry the leaves or use them fresh. It is known for its natural wellness-supporting qualities. It is known as the Insulin Plant for its anti-diabetic properties. Many people believe its leaves may help support healthy blood sugar levels.
Water: Water twice a week Sun: Partial to full sunHow to use: Chew one leaf daily.
Uses/Benefits:
- controls blood sugar
- supports digestion
- boosts immunity
- improves metabolism
- reduces inflammation
- helps weight management
- purifies blood
- balances blood pressure
25. Henna (Mehndi)
Henna or Lawsonia Inermis, is a small shrub with green leaves and fragrant flowers. The leaves are dried and ground into a fine powder. This powder is used in many traditional and cultural practices. Henna is valued for its natural coloring and cooling effect. It holds a special place in rituals, beauty care, and herbal remedies.
Water: Moderate Sun: Full sunHow to use: Make paste of dried leaves.
Uses/Benefits:
- cools scalp
- treats dandruff
- soothes headaches
- heals wounds
- strengthens hair
- natural dye
- reduces inflammation
- improves skin health
- eases burns
- controls itching
26. Sandalwood (Chandan)
Sandalwood tree has strong fragrance and smooth, light-colored wood. Its heartwood is ground into powder or used for oil. The Chandan tree is considered sacred in India. Sandalwood is often linked with purity and calmness. It is highly respected in Ayurveda, spiritual rituals, and natural wellness practices.
Water: Moderate Sun: Full sunHow to use: Use as paste, oil or in rituals.
Uses/Benefits:
- cools skin
- reduces inflammation
- soothes rashes
- heals wounds
- calms mind
- improves sleep
- clears acne
- brightens complexion
- treats headaches
- relieves itching
27. Patharchatta (Kalanchoe pinnata)
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Pattharchatta, also known as Miracle Leaf, Cathedral Bells or Bryophyllum, is a medicinal succulent plant. It is especially well-known in Indian folk medicine and Ayurveda for supporting kidney and urinary health, which is why it is often called Patharchatta — meaning "stone breaker" in Hindi.
Water: Low Sun: Full sunHow to use: Chew fresh leaves, grind leaves into a paste and apply on skin cuts, swelling, burns or drink juice.
Uses/Benefits:
- supports kidney health
- breaks kidney stones
- heals wounds faster
- reduces inflammation
- soothes skin irritation
- controls bleeding
- boosts immunity
- cools the body
- relieves pain
- supports respiratory health
28. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
Peppermint is a fresh-smelling herb. It has a strong minty scent. This aromatic plant is a hybrid of watermint and spearmint. The plant grows low and spreads fast. The minty leaves are used both fresh or dried. Peppermint is known for its cooling nature. It is used in herbal remedies, teas, and oils.
Water: Regular watering Sun: Partial sunHow to use: Use in tea or as oil.
Uses/Benefits:
- improves digestion
- soothes headaches
- freshens breath
- eases nausea
- clears congestion
- boosts energy
- reduces stress
- relieves cramps
- cools skin
- improves memory
29. Chamomile
Chamomile or Babune ka Phal is a gentle herb with white flowers and a sweet, apple-like smell. It looks like a tiny daisy. Its flowers are the most useful part. They are dried and used in herbal teas and other natural remedies.
Water: Moderate Sun: Full sunHow to use: Dry flowers and brew tea.
Uses/Benefits:
- promotes better sleep
- soothes the stomach
- reduces stress
- calms the mind
- reduces menstrual cramps
- supports skin health
- relieves cold symptoms
- reduces inflammation
- improve heart health
30. Stevia (Meethi Tulsi)
Stevia is a green leafy medicinal plant and is popular for its natural sweetness. Its leaves taste sweet but have no sugar. The plant is often used as a sugar substitute. Stevia is native to South America and is now grown in many places. The sweet leaves can be used fresh or dried. It is popular in herbal and health-conscious diets.
How to use: add fresh leaves to tea or water, Crush dried leaves into powder and sprinkle over food or drinks
Uses/Benefits:
- controls blood sugar
- zero calories
- aids weight loss
- natural sweetener
- supports oral health
- safe for diabetics
- lowers blood pressure
- reduces sugar cravings
31. Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus)
Shatavari is a Sanskrit word that means curer of a hundred diseases. It is a traditional Ayurvedic herb. It is known for its long, thin roots and small, needle-like leaves. It is a type of wild asparagus. The long roots are considered as the most useful part. Shatavari has been used for centuries in herbal healing. It is valued for its gentle, nourishing nature and is often found in natural wellness practices.
How to use: Mix powder with honey or ghee and take in small amounts, Boil shatavari roots in water, strain, and drink the liquid.
Uses/Benefits:
- balances hormones
- boosts immunity
- supports digestion
- improves vitality
- reduces stress
- enhances fertility
- nourishes skin
- cools the body
- supports lactation
- relieves inflammation
32. Periwinkle (Sadabahar)
Periwinkle or catharanthus roseus is a flowering plant. It has star-shaped blooms. The plant makes many natural chemicals called alkaloids. These include vincristine and vinblastine. These alkaloids are used in modern medicine to make important drugs.
How to use: Dried leaves used in traditional teas under expert guidance, In some cultures, diluted pastes or infusions are applied to minor wounds.
Uses/Benefits:
- supports cell health
- aids wound healing
- controls blood sugar
- improves brain function
- reduces inflammation
- calms nervous system
- boosts immunity
- manages infections
- supports circulation
- used in cancer therapy
Note: Periwinkle contains powerful alkaloids. Always use it under medical guidance.
33. Artemisia (Sweet Wormwood)
Artemisia or dhavanam is a green herb with soft, feathery leaves. It is popular for its strong, pleasant fragrance. The herbaceous plant has been used in traditional healing systems for many years. It is valued for its bitter taste and natural compounds. Artemisia grows easily in many climates.
Uses/Benefits:
- supports liver health
- boosts immunity
- reduces fever
- aids digestion
- fights infections
- relieves inflammation
- helps detoxification
- supports skin care
- natural antimalarial
- calms the body
34. Kapur Tulsi (Camphor Basil)
Kapur Tulsi is a special type of tulsi which have strong camphor-like smell. It has broad green leaves and grows well in Indian homes. The plant is commonly used in Ayurveda and traditional medicine. Kapur Tulsi is often kept in gardens or near temples for its calming and purifying qualities.
Uses/Benefits:
- purifies air
- boosts immunity
- relieves stress
- cure cough
- supports breathing
- repels insects
- improves focus
- clears skin
- helps in digestion
- natural detoxifier
- Always use herbal or medicinal plants under proper guidance.
- Dosage should be followed as advised by an expert.
- Wrong use may cause harm instead of healing.
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