9 Healing Plants to Always Have on Hand, According to Experts

These plants do more than just look pretty.

There are so many reasons to love plants—they add color both indoors and outdoors, nourish essential pollinators, boost curb appeal, and can be harvested for cooking. But beyond these benefits, some plants also contain healing properties that can help treat common ailments. Whether you're looking to reduce inflammation, improve digestion, or soothe anxiety, these healing plants can be grown and used at home.

Meet the Expert

• Amy Rothenberg, N.D., a naturopathic doctor and president of the Massachusetts Society of Naturopathic Doctors

• Monica Vermani, C.Psych., a clinical psychologist

• Brie Arthur, horticulturist and author of Gardening With Grains

Related: Houseplants Won't Really Purify the Air in Your Home—but There Are Plenty of Other Benefits to Owning Them

Lavender

Known for its calming effect, lavender has a wonderful aroma, immune-supporting capacity, and a soothing fragrance. "Once it blooms, take the flowers and make small sachets or bouquets to leave in places around your home, in drawers or dressers," says Amy Rothenberg, N.D., a naturopathic doctor and president of the Massachusetts Society of Naturopathic Doctors.

Related: How to Grow and Care for a Lavender Plant, One of Martha's Favorite Perennials

Marigold

This happy orange flower is not just a bold vision in nature—the marigold (Calendula officinalis) can also help alleviate pain when applied topically. The dried petals of the calendula plant are used in tinctures, ointments, and washes to treat burns, bruises, and cuts.

Related: How to Plant and Care for Marigolds, Splashy Bedding Plants That You Can Grow in Almost Every Hardiness Zone

Mint

Mint, which is a great windowsill herd, is used for its ability to calm a nervous stomach and address nausea. "Gently boil mint leaves in water and let sit a bit before drinking," says Dr. Rothenberg. "You can also dry your mint leaves to use at a later date. Once dried, store in a small container or freeze to be taken out when needed."

Related: How to Grow and Care for Mint in Your Garden or on Your Windowsill

Aloe Vera

One of the most well-known healing plants, aloe can be used to retain skin moisture, prevent ulcers, improve wound healing, and treat burns. "Aloe is an easy-to-grow houseplant that has been noted by experts for decades to reduce skin inflammation," says Brie Arthur, horticulturist and author of Gardening With Grains. "The clear gel from the plant has been used to treat home burns, cuts, and small skin infections."

Lemon Balm

Like mint, lemon balm is also a great digestive tonic and immune supporting herb. "Leaves can be boiled and drank as tea or you can make a lemon balm tincture," says Dr. Rothenberg. "It's great to take during cold and flu season to help bolster immune function."

Rosemary

Rosemary is carminative, meaning it helps to decrease gas and bloating, says Dr. Rothenberg. Additionally, when used as an oil, rosemary is an effective natural medicine for treating nervous system pathological conditions, including anxiety and depression.

Spider Plants

A popular houseplant that can thrive in areas with low light, spider plants may also be beneficial to your overall health. "They produce excessive chlorophyll which enables them to give off lots of oxygen so they can be helpful for breathing for those with asthma and other respiratory ailments," says Dr. Rothenberg.

Gardenia

Gardenia can be grown in the garden or indoors as a houseplant. Wherever it's grown, be sure to place it in an area where you can enjoy its calming fragrance. "The crocetin in gardenia, via the scent of this plant, is known to aid in sleep," says Monica Vermani, C.Psych., a clinical psychologist.

Related: 15 Plants That Will Transform Your Bedroom Into a Relaxing Oasis

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is commonly used for its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. "Eucalyptus branches—often used as accent greenery in floral arrangements—are purported to have antimicrobial properties that not only help freshen the air indoors but can also have a calming effect," says Vermani.

Read the original article on Martha Stewart.