6 healing plants you should have in your home, according to experts

Anytime you want to take your planter game to the next level, consider another potential advantage: some plants can actually help you heal. According to Lauren Haynes, a clinical herbalist trained at the Appalachian Center for Natural Health, "a simple and safe plant is an easy way to take care of yourself and your family."

Heinz and other plant biologist specialists list indoor medicinal plants that you can grow at home in order to get greater benefits from your passion for growing plants.

Aloe vera oil

Many people know to use aloe vera oil as a topical gel applied to sunburned skin. Although this succulent plant thrives in warm and hot climates and needs plenty of sunlight, cacti can be grown indoors if you have space with a sunny window.

The cactus plant is distinguished by its long, sword-like and often colorful leaves. Jessica Baker, a registered herbalist, licensed acupuncture specialist and owner of Baker Botanica, says: "The gel inside the leaves can be applied topically to treat sunburn or skin irritation." Is there another use for aloe vera that you probably weren't aware of? Baker explains that it can also be "ingested internally to aid digestion and promote healthy bowel movements."

"Aloe vera gel is useful for wound healing of any kind," Hines adds. "This is thanks in part to the work of aloe vera on the formation of collagen, which is the essential protein for many different tissues.

Jiaogulan

Jiaogulan, also known as the "sweet tea vine", is a vineyard plant that can grow indoors if it gets enough sunlight. Haynes explains that he "belongs to the cucurbit family, which makes him the cousin of pumpkins." The leaves of the plant are commonly used to make tea, says Heinz: "You can cut fresh leaves and brew tea daily, which will only stimulate the growth of your houseplant."

Jiaogulan has properties similar to ginseng in terms of brain function, but this plant grows much easier. "Jiaogulan contains many beneficial compounds, the most famous of which are ginsenosides... [which] supports everything from mental clarity to longevity."

Lavender

Most people recognize lavender for its scent and purple flowers, as it is often used as a decoration as well as in aromatherapy. "Lavender is a medicinal plant that everyone should have, for its properties that help relax and reduce stress," says Baker. Lavender is usually grown outdoors, but this plant is adaptable: with the right conditions – plenty of sunlight and warmth – it can be grown indoors, preferably near the window with direct light.

You can make an infusion of lavender plant and add it to baked goods. Baker recommends using this plant in moderation in recipes, because "the taste can be soapy if you use it too much in cooking or tea."

Mint

Mint is an easy herb to grow. In fact, it grows well and makes us happy that it is the best to grow in its own container, as mint will dominate any space where it is grown. Mint comes in a range of varieties. "My favorite mint is yerba buena and chocolate mint," Baker says. "Choose your favorite mint (or two) and add it to a large bowl," she adds.

Mint tea is soothing and can help with digestion and other diseases. "Mint is great at reducing belching and bloating," Baker says. "It can also vent rashes and reduce sore throats and fever."

Lemon balm

Lemon balm (lemon balm), a member of the mint family, has a fragrant lemon scent. This herb can grow indoors, preferably near a sunny window. Just be sure to plant it separately from other herbs and in its own pot, because lemon balm, like mint, will spread and control the space.

Known as a calming plant, lemon balm may support relaxation, help improve sleep, and relieve minor digestive problems. Lemon balm leaves can be sprayed on dishes or used to make a herbal infusion. "Lemon balm makes an excellent cup of soothing tea, and it can also be used in salads and smoothies," says Ana Marie Bushmin, clinical herbalist and holistic dietitian, owner of East Bay Herbals in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Moringa

Moringa has been filling healthy pathways thanks to its antioxidant properties, mineral elements, vitamins, and a host of potential benefits. "Moringa trees make really beautiful indoor plants," says Haynes. "Ideally, you can start them outside and give them plenty of light and heat to settle in, then you can move them to a sunny, south-facing window during the winter."

Moringa trees are native to sub-Saharan Africa and in Southeast Asia. In many places, Moringa leaves are a staple food source. "Moringa leaves are an extraordinary source of complete protein and a wide range of vitamins and minerals, making them supportive of overall well-being and essential nutrition," says Haynes.