While traditional medicine is effective, one can not ignore the side effects associated with taking man-made medicine.
It is a lot safer to use remedies you can grow at home to treat your ailments because unless you are allergic to certain plants, they have no known side effects. However, it is important that you do not self-diagnose, if something is wrong, go to the doctor and get an accurate diagnosis.
With that said, here are 10 medicinal seeds you should start growing this winter.
Chicory
Chicory belongs to the dandelion family and has been used for centuries due to its abundant medicinal properties. It contains inulin, a soluble fiber good for digestive health. Chicory also contains anti-inflammatory properties and helps reduce inflammation in the body. One way to use chicory is to drink it as a tea.
This plant can be grown as forage for livestock. Its leaves are nutritious for animals like chickens, rabbits, and goats, providing a natural and cost-effective feed source on the homestead.
How to Plant Chicory Seeds
Use a shallow, wide container with drainage holes. Add well-drained soil to the pot.
Improve drainage by mixing garden soil with perlite or sand, or a lightweight potting mix. Plant the seeds about ¼ inch deep into the soil and space them a few inches apart.
Place the pot near a grow light for 6-8 hours per day. Set the indoor temperature to between 60 F – 70 F. Prevent humidity-related problems by making sure there is good circulation in the room that it is growing.
Keep the soil moist but make sure it doesn’t get waterlogged. Use a balanced, diluted fertilizer every 2-4 weeks. Chicory seeds will germinate after two to three weeks.
Yarrow
Yarrow contains several active compounds that are effective for wound healing, digestive health, menstrual health, and fever reduction. For women who experience menstrual cramps, drink yarrow as a tea. It is recommended that you start drinking the tea a few days before your period is due, and throughout your period for best results.
Yarrow is beneficial as a companion plant in gardens. It attracts predatory insects and enhances soil health. Planting yarrows near vegetables can help repel pests and improve overall garden biodiversity.
How to Plant Yarrow Seeds
Use a shallow, wide container with drainage holes and add well-drained soil to the pot.
Improve drainage by mixing garden soil with perlite or sand, or a lightweight potting mix, plant the seeds on the surface and gently press them into the soil.
Prevent humidity-related problems by making sure there is good circulation in the room where it is growing and watering the yarrow plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Use a balanced, diluted fertilizer every 3-4 weeks. The seeds will germinate within two to three weeks.
California Poppy
California poppies, being native plants, support local ecosystems. They attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to biodiversity on the homestead. Homesteaders interested in fostering wildlife can use California poppies as part of their habitat-friendly landscaping.
This plant is used for various medicinal purposes such as pain relief, sleep aid, and nervous system support.
How to Plant California Poppy Seeds
Plant California poppy seeds in well-drained, sunny soil during winter. Optionally, cold-stratify seeds in the fridge before scattering them on the soil surface. Gently press seeds in, ensuring good contact.
Keep soil consistently moist for germination. Thin seedlings if desired, and maintain moist but not waterlogged conditions. With vibrant orange, yellow, or red blooms, these annual wildflowers are low-maintenance and thrive in cooler temperatures. Consider local climate and soil conditions, and check seed packets for specific instructions.
Marshmallow
Also known as ‘althaea officinalis,’ marshmallow contains properties such as flavonoids and mucilage that have several health benefits. Marshmallow is good for digestive health, the respiratory system, skin irritations, urinary health, and wound health. The young leaves and flowers of marshmallow are edible. They can be used in salads or cooked as greens.
How to Plant Marshmallow Seeds
In winter, plant marshmallow seeds in well-drained soil with full sunlight. Sow seeds on the surface, lightly pressing them in. While not mandatory, cold stratification in the fridge can enhance germination.
Keep the soil consistently moist until seeds sprout. Marshmallow plants, known for their soothing properties, prefer slightly acidic soil. Watch for seedlings, thin if necessary, and maintain appropriate moisture levels.
Chamomile
Chamomile originates from the Asteraceae family, it is a powerful natural remedy used for calming, relaxing, digestion, skincare, menstrual pain relief, and respiratory health. If you are struggling to sleep, drinking a cup of chamomile tea will help you relax and fall asleep.
Planting chamomile alongside certain crops is good for the garden. It helps nearby plants like cabbages, onions, and herbs grow better and taste even more delicious.
How to Plant Chamomile Seeds
In winter, plant chamomile seeds in well-drained, sunny soil. Scatter seeds on the surface, lightly pressing them in, and water gently. Chamomile, thriving in full sunlight, prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil. For enhanced germination, consider optional cold stratification by chilling seeds in the fridge before planting.
While mulching is optional, a thin layer aids in moisture retention. Chamomile seeds generally germinate well in cooler temperatures, making winter an appropriate planting time.
Evening Primrose
Evening primrose originates from North America but is found all over the world. Its seeds contain gamma-linoleic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid responsible for many of its health benefits including arthritis, joint pain, digestive health, nervous system support, cardiovascular health, eczema, and dermatitis.
How to Plant Evening Primrose Seeds
During the winter, sow evening primrose seeds in well-draining, sunlit soil. Place the seeds on the surface, lightly press them into the soil, and water gently to maintain consistent moisture.
For improved germination, consider cold-stratifying the seeds in the refrigerator before planting. Evening primrose thrives in soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Keep an eye out for seedlings, thinning if necessary, and ensure the right moisture levels are maintained for successful growth.
Lavender
Lavender is a popular herb known for its delightful aroma and many health benefits including pain relief, skincare, hair care, digestive health, improved sleep, and period cramps.
How to Plant Lavender Seeds
Fill small seed pots or trays with a well-draining seed-starting mix. Mix the soil with perlite or sand for better drainage.
Lightly sprinkle the seeds onto the soil surface and gently press them down. Place the pot in front of a window for lighting. Cover the seed trays with a plastic dome to create a humid environment.
Check the moisture level regularly and mist as needed. Water the plants when the top inch of soil feels dry. Provide deep, thorough watering sessions rather than frequent shallow watering.
Once the seedlings have a few sets of true leaves and are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots with good drainage. It takes lavender seeds two to three weeks to germinate.
Echinacea
Also known as ‘coneflower,’ Echinacea is a group of herbaceous plants in the daisy family. It has many health benefits including wound healing, relief from sore throat, allergy relief, and gastrointestinal health. To treat a sore throat, drink Echinacea as a tea.
Planting Echinacea near vegetable gardens or other susceptible plants can act as a natural pest deterrent. The plant attracts beneficial insects, such as bees and butterflies, while repelling certain pests.
How to Plant Echinacea Seeds
In winter, plant Echinacea seeds in well-drained, sunny soil. Sow seeds on the surface, lightly pressing them in, and water gently for consistent moisture. Echinacea thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soil.
Winter’s cooler temperatures are suitable for germination. Thin seedlings as needed. Once established, Echinacea is drought-tolerant but maintains moisture during the initial stages. Optionally, allow some plants to mature for seed harvesting.
Calendula
Also known as ‘marigold,’ calendula is a flowering plant with many health benefits including menstrual health, eye health, oral health, and immune support.
Calendula can also be used as part of a natural insect repellent. The strong scent of calendula flowers may help keep certain insects at bay.
How to Plant Calendula Seeds
Fill the seed trays or small pots with a seed-starting mix. Plant the seeds ¼ inch deep into the soil and space the seeds a few inches apart.
Mist the soil surface with water using a spray bottle. Cover the seed trays with a plastic dome to create a humid environment.
Check the moisture level regularly and mist as needed. Place a fluorescent grow light a few inches above the trays for 6-8 hours a day.
Once the seedlings have a few sets of true leaves and are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots with good drainage. Seeds begin to germinate within one week.
Feverfew
Feverfew is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and is also good for fever reduction, menstrual disorders, and digestive health. To use feverfew for digestive problems by drinking it as a tea.
How to Plant Feverfew Seeds
For indoor winter planting of Feverfew seeds, start by selecting containers with drainage and filling them with a quality seed starting mix. Scatter the seeds on the soil surface, lightly pressing them in, and maintain consistent soil moisture without overwatering. Enclose the containers to create a humid environment, and place them in a well-lit area or use grow lights.
Aim to keep the temperature around 70°F (21°C) for optimal germination, typically occurring within 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings have developed true leaves, transplant them into larger pots or the outdoor garden when the risk of frost has passed. Ongoing care involves regular watering and adequate light to ensure healthy growth. This approach facilitates early development for subsequent transplanting outdoors in the spring, and adjustments can be made based on Feverfew’s specific needs and local conditions.
Common medicinal herbs can also be grown in winter with the right care. Adjust your cultivation approach based on the specific requirements of each herb and your local climate. Indoor cultivation is particularly effective for ensuring a steady supply of fresh herbs during the winter months.
It’s the perfect time to start cultivating medicinal plants in the home so that you’ll have them to hand all year round. Remember to store all leaves and oils in a cool dark place.
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