Plant Power: The Magic of Indoor Plant Benefits
It may just be time to become a “plant person.” It turns out indoor plant benefits go beyond just adding aesthetics to your living space. Healthy indoor houseplants can actually boost both your physical and mental health!
Whether you have an empty corner that needs a little something, an apartment balcony, or just a living room wall that can hold a shelf, a plant might just be the answer. Read on to learn all about the healing power of plants!
What Are Some of the Health Benefits of Indoor Plants?
Improved Air Quality
Some indoor houseplants plants can help improve air quality by absorbing toxins from the air. A study by NASA showed that indoor plants can remove certain pollutants like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene from the air.
Increased Humidity
Are you feeling extra dry and itchy, especially in the winter? Plants release moisture vapor into the air, which can increase humidity in a room. This can be particularly beneficial in dry environments or during dry seasons, as increased humidity can help prevent respiratory discomfort and dry skin.
Stress Reduction
Stress is a complex mechanism, but Indoor plants can help reduce physiological and psychological stress levels by suppressing autonomic nervous system activity. They can also improve air quality, produce a calming effect, and provide a sense of relaxation in the context of a more natural environment.
Boosted Mood and Reduced Fatigue
Are you constantly feeling just a bit “blah?” Get some plants! Plants can have a positive impact on mood and can help reduce feelings of fatigue. A study from Texas A&M also found that plants can increase feelings of compassion, improving your social relationships.
Improved Concentration and Productivity
If you just can’t seem to get your work done, you may just want to add a plant or two to your desk. Many studies have pointed to the positive benefits of plants on productivity, particularly in office environments. One notable study published in the Journal of Environmental Horticulture found that the presence of plants in the office environment reduced stress levels and enhanced cognitive performance.
Therapeutic Effects
Horticultural therapy is a recognized therapeutic modality. It has been used to help people with mental health disorders, including depression and anxiety. Watering and nurturing plants can provide a sense of purpose and be a mindfulness practice. Trust me; there’s nothing else like the feeling of new plant growth–especially the exciting day when you see a new leaf!
Improved Sleep
Some plants, like lavender and jasmine, have been shown to improve sleep quality by lowering anxiety, improving mood, and even slowing heart rate as they positively interact with the nervous system.
Noise Reduction
Plants can help reduce noise levels by absorbing sounds. This can create a more comfortable, quieter living environment, particularly in urban areas. It’s also helpful if you have wooden floors that tend to echo sounds easily.
What are the Best Indoor Plants to Improve Your Health?
Bamboo Palm
The tropical palm is particularly great at purifying the air of harmful substances such as formaldehyde, benzene, xylene, and chloroform. These indoor palm plants need a bit more sunlight than other indoor plants, so try to position them near windows or glass doors.
Spider Plant
The spider plant is one of the easiest plants around–great for any home or office setup. With its chunky white roots, it can store extra food and water whenever it needs to. Plus, it only needs moderate or indirect sunlight. So, if you’re looking for an easy, pet-friendly addition to your place that can soak up airborne toxins, this plant is the way to go.
Gerbera Daisies
These gorgeous daisies add a touch of beauty to your space and work their magic in purifying indoor air by eliminating benzene and formaldehyde. Taking care of them is a breeze, and they thrive when given just the right amount of sunlight. For the best growth, make sure to water them at the base.
Peace Lillies
The peace lily is a great air purifier for pet-free homes, especially in rooms where sunlight is scarce. Not only does it purify the air, but it also adds a touch of natural beauty to any space. This plant thrives in humid conditions, which makes it a perfect fit for your bathroom or laundry room. It works its magic by filtering out mold spores and VOCs found in cosmetics, hairspray, cleaners, and fabric softener.
Boston Fern
Boston ferns are popular houseplants known for their graceful, feathery fronds. These luscious green beauties not only add a touch of elegance to any indoor space but also improve air quality by filtering toxins. They thrive in indirect light and high humidity, making them ideal for bathrooms or kitchens. Their low-maintenance nature makes them perfect for beginners.
English Ivy
English Ivy, with its trailing vines and lush green leaves, is a fantastic houseplant choice. Apart from its aesthetic appeal, it excels at purifying the air by reducing airborne mold and formaldehyde. English Ivy is a versatile plant that can be grown in hanging baskets or as a climber, adding a touch of natural beauty to any room. Its adaptability and resilience make it a great option for both experienced and new gardeners.
Snake Plants
Snake plants, also known as Sansevieria or Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, are exceptional houseplants. Their distinctive upright leaves, often marked with striking patterns, make them unusual and visually appealing. Snake plant benefits are incredible! They’re known for their ability to purify indoor air by removing toxins like formaldehyde and benzene. They’re also incredibly low maintenance, requiring minimal watering and tolerating various light conditions.
Pothos
Also known as a “money plant” or “Devil’s Ivy,” these low-maintenance vining plants are my personal favorite. Pothos plants are excellent houseplants for several reasons. With their cascading vines and heart-shaped leaves, they add a touch of natural beauty to any indoor space. There’s no shortage of money plant benefits– they’re incredibly adaptable, thriving in various light conditions and requiring minimal care. They’re air-purifying and known to be hardy and resilient, making them perfect for beginners or busy individuals.
Tips for Reaping Indoor Plant Benefits
If you’re new to the world of indoor plants, it can be easy to get overwhelmed by all your options and potential new responsibilities. Fortunately, all the plants we mentioned above are relatively low maintenance. However, as you’re researching which plants to choose, keep in mind:
- How much light the plant needs
- How much space you have
- Whether you have pets (some are highly toxic if ingested by animals)
- How much effort you’re willing to put into care
I know it’s tempting to just jump right in, but be sure to do your best and research the best ways to care for your plant! That way, they can start benefitting your health, too!
You Can Be a Plant Person, Too!
I used to be the “I’ve never found a houseplant I couldn’t kill” girl. Seriously, the plants in Home Depot used to cower as I approached. But I’ve turned over a new leaf, so to speak. My fifteen healthy, thriving houseplants of two years have made my life better as I’ve learned to care for them. One day, I’ll also have an outdoor garden space where I can watch them bloom in the fresh air and sunshine. But until then, my indoor plants and I will be living our happiest, best lives.
