Houseplants do more than just make your space look pretty. They can seriously improve your health and well-being.
Here are some evidence-based reasons to bring more plants into your home.
Less dust and allergens
Plants act as natural air filters, trapping dust and mold particles through their leaves.
Textured-leaf plants like violets and peace lilies are especially effective at capturing airborne allergens.
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Just be sure to avoid plants that produce pollen or spores if you’re allergy-prone.
Mood boosters
People working in environments with plants feel better, worry less, and even take fewer sick days.
Flowers, in particular, are known to lift the mood. Add a vibrant lipstick plant or a colorful bouquet to your space and see your outlook brighten.
Spider plants add humidity
Dry air, especially in the winter, can lead to itchy skin and increase your risk of colds.
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Spider plants are natural humidifiers. They raised the humidity in a bedroom from 20 % to a much more comfortable 30 % in 24 hours.
Natural air purifiers
Common household items like carpets, paint, and cleaning products can release harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
These can irritate your eyes, worsen asthma, and make breathing harder.
Plants like English ivy, asparagus fern, and the dragon tree absorb VOCs and help clean the air naturally.
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Herbs aid digestion
Mint is known for easing bloating and gas, and it’s easy to grow indoors.
Peppermint and spearmint are perfect for containers, and basil can also help soothe your stomach. Steep a few leaves in hot water for a quick, calming tea.
Lavender helps you relax
Lavender has been used for centuries for its calming properties.
Whether you inhale its essential oil, massage it into your scalp, or make tea with the leaves, lavender may help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
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More research is still needed, but early findings are promising.
Aloe vera for first aid
Aloe vera gel is a go-to remedy for sunburns and other minor burns. It also soothes skin conditions like psoriasis.
Even its juice can act as a mild laxative if you’re dealing with constipation. A must-have in any home!
Plants improve sleep
Through photosynthesis, plants take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen, and some, like gerbera daisies, keep releasing oxygen even at night.
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That extra oxygen in your bedroom can help you sleep more peacefully.
Stress reduction
Feeling overwhelmed? Try adding a heart-leaf philodendron or a snake plant to your living space.
The interacting with plants can reduce blood pressure, lower your heart rate, and decrease cortisol, the stress hormone.
Better focus and memory
Plants in learning environments improve concentration and memory. In one study, students in classrooms with plants performed better in math, reading, and science.
Try bringing home a golden pothos or bamboo palm to enhance your mental sharpness.
Faster recovery
Giving flowers or potted plants to someone in the hospital isn't just thoughtful – it can help them heal faster.
Patients recovering from surgery needed less pain medication and healed more quickly when exposed to greenery or even a view of nature.
Mental and emotional health
Caring for plants is a form of therapy. It’s used to support people with depression, PTSD, dementia, and more.
Tending to a living thing helps lower anxiety and promote mindfulness. Just be sure to check if your plants are pet-safe if you share your home with furry friends.
This article is based on information from WebMD.com.