As the global conversation around health becomes more proactive than reactive, metabolism has emerged as a key focus in personal well-being. While once considered a fixed genetic trait, metabolism is now understood as something we can support, optimize, and even enhance through everyday choices—especially nutrition. A healthy metabolism doesn’t just burn calories; it influences energy levels, hormone balance, inflammation, digestion, and even mood. And one of the most sustainable, accessible ways to boost it? Growing your herbs and produce right at home.
India Today spoke with leading experts like Ms. Payal Sharma, Senior Nutritionist and Dietician at Dharamshila Narayana Superspeciality Hospital, and Maninder Singh Nayyar, Founder & CEO of CEF Group, to explore how home-grown superfoods like mint, turmeric, moringa, and microgreens can naturally support metabolic health—while also empowering individuals to take control of their nutrition from seed to plate.
THE POWER OF HOMEGROWN PLANTS
“Boosting your metabolism naturally isn’t about chasing quick fixes,” says Ms. Payal Sharma. “It is about giving your body the kind of nourishment that helps it convert food into energy more efficiently.”
She highlights herbs like moringa, mint, lemongrass, curry leaves, green chillies, turmeric, and microgreens as particularly potent. Rich in antioxidants and bioactive compounds, they help reduce inflammation, balance hormones, and support the body’s natural fat-burning ability.
HOW EACH PLANT PLAYS A ROLE
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Mint improves bile flow and relaxes stomach muscles, enhancing digestion and nutrient absorption
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Green chillies are rich in capsaicin, a compound that increases heat production and energy use
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Turmeric, thanks to curcumin, helps regulate insulin sensitivity and lowers systemic inflammation
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Microgreens provide a concentrated dose of vitamins and enzymes, supporting cellular energy
“Growing these ingredients at home adds an extra layer of freshness and trust,” Sharma explains. “It also creates a stronger connection with what you eat.”
URBAN FARMING IS THE FUTURE OF HEALTH
“Optimising the body’s metabolic function is fundamentally about providing it with the right raw materials,” says Maninder Singh Nayyar. Homegrown foods offer an exceptional resource. “This isn’t about fleeting fads; it’s about harnessing the inherent power of nutrient-dense produce.”
He adds that freshly harvested herbs retain more nutrients and bioactive compounds than store-bought versions. “This direct link from garden to plate maximises nutritional intake and fosters a more mindful relationship with food.”
HOW TO START SMALL
You don’t need a backyard farm. A pot of mint on your balcony, turmeric growing in a container, or a tray of microgreens on your kitchen counter is enough to begin. “Sometimes, the most powerful changes come from the simplest choices,” Sharma says.
Even limited urban setups can encourage more mindful eating habits, and studies show urban farming can increase access to fresh produce by up to 30% in cities.
Metabolic health isn’t a short-term project—it’s a long-term commitment to nourishing your body wisely. By growing herbs and spices at home, you’re not just enhancing your food’s flavour, but also feeding your body with functional compounds that fuel energy, resilience, and well-being.
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