Your green thumb could make your diet more well-rounded, even in the winter. You just have to know which kinds of plants to grow indoors. As you learn which indoor plants are best for your health, think about which health goals you want to accomplish. Matching a plant with your wellness goals could be the next best way to fortify your health all year long.

1. Tomatoes

Tomatoes include a compound called lycopene, which boosts antioxidant activity in the body and reduces free radicals in your bloodstream. Those free radicals could otherwise cause chronic illnesses or cancer. You might not think of tomatoes when you picture edible house plants, but they’re easy to grow indoors.

All you need is a large pot, a stake and a location where they can get a full day of sun. Whether you want to add mini tomatoes to your salads or enjoy more tomato sauce, you’ll have a delicious diet full of antioxidants.

2. Parsley

Your spice cabinet is about to get a big upgrade. Parsley is a powerful addition to any diet because it contains vitamin C. Your body uses vitamin C to supercharge your immune system against powerful viruses. Don’t forget to add the peppery parsley plant to your gardening list while you’re taking notes on which indoor plants are edible.

Eating parsley is a great way to boost your health, and it can keep your immune system strong during flu and virus outbreaks when your body is most at risk. Nutritious foods that are high in vitamin C are vital for people of all ages, but more so for seniors who may be at a higher risk during these outbreaks.

3. Chives

You don’t need to eat more beans to increase your fiber intake — chives are also high in fiber. When you eat more fiber, it feeds your gut’s microbiome, so digestion is easier. You’ll have more regular bowel movements and an easier time breaking down food in your digestive tract after eating chives more regularly. Chives are also some of the best edible houseplants because you only need a small pot and a little bit of counter space.

4. Button Mushrooms

Mushrooms taste delicious in thick sauces, salads and wraps. They’re also among the many indoor plants that are best for your health. Specifically, button mushrooms have varying amounts of vitamin D, which reduces your risk of cardiovascular disease and autoimmune conditions.

Their meaty flavor also makes them a great dietary addition if you want to stretch your budget. Dice some button mushrooms and toss them in a pan with a pound of ground beef. You’ll make the meat feed more people and improve meals with this healthy yet tasty plant.

5. Bell Peppers

Bell peppers are another important source of vitamin C, which is crucial for anyone with joint pain. Vitamin C helps the body produce more collagen and adds more cushioning between your joints. You might experience less daily discomfort by adding bell peppers to your diet.

The vivid colors of bell peppers look beautiful in outdoor gardens, but you can also grow them inside your home. Just pick an extra large pot for your garden addition. Bell peppers need extensive root systems to thrive. If you want to jump-start their growth, check for stem cuttings or nursery starts instead of bell pepper seeds.

6. Mint

The mint plant provides antispasmodic and pain-relief effects when it reaches your digestive tract. Anyone with digestive conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) could have an easier time with meals and snacks if their daily diet includes some mint. People who want to learn which indoor plants are edible often start with a small pot of mint because it’s easy to grow and steep in tea.

Discovering indoor plants that are best for your health is exciting. Empower yourself along your health journey with an indoor garden that targets your needs. Whether you want more vitamin C, fiber or gut-soothing nutrients, you can fortify your diet with plants grown in your living room. ❖