The Power of Houseplants: Eight Plants to Boost Your Health Naturally

When looking for houseplants to bring home, many of us prioritize their appearance and maintenance requirements first. However, there’s an essential aspect that we should keep in mind when selecting the perfect plant: their health benefits. Houseplants not only add beauty and freshness to our homes but also can have a significant impact on our health and well-being. In this article, we will explore eight houseplants that offer specific health benefits.

1. Spider Plant

The spider plant is an excellent choice for removing formaldehyde from indoor air. This chemical is found in a wide range of household products, including synthetic fabrics, paper products, and particleboard. Besides formaldehyde, spider plants target carbon monoxide and other toxic air impurities. This plant is incredibly hardy and easy to care for, making it an excellent option for beginners.

2. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a well-known medicinal plant that has been used for centuries to soothe burns, cuts, and other skin irritations. While scientific evidence on the full extent of its medicinal properties is limited, it’s been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Additionally, aloe vera plants help to purify the air of formaldehyde and benzene, making them an excellent plant for those with asthma or allergies.

3. Lavender

Lavender is a flowering plant with a delightful aroma renowned for its calming and stress-relieving properties. It can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and insomnia. The scent of lavender is often used in various spa products, including bath salts, skincare creams, soaps, and candles. Placing it in your bedroom can help you sleep better at night.

4. English Ivy

English Ivy is a well-known plant that helps purify the air of mold and other airborne particles. This is especially beneficial for those living in humid or damp environments. This plant can thrive in rooms with fluorescent lighting and prefers slightly moist soil.

5. Snake Plant

The snake plant is another air-purifying plant that works mostly at night. It converts carbon dioxide to oxygen while you sleep, making it ideal for the bedroom. It also helps remove toxins like trichloroethylene, formaldehyde, toluene, benzene, and xylene. Snake plants are easy to care for and require little watering, making them perfect for those who want low-maintenance plants.

6. Rosemary

Rosemary is a herb with a delightful aroma that can help improve memory and concentration. Research indicates that the compound called 1,8-cineole in rosemary may increase the neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. The scent of rosemary is often used in essential oils and diffusers to help improve cognitive function.

7. Peace Lily

Peace lilies purify indoor air by absorbing pollutants like ammonia, benzene, and trichloroethylene. They also produce lovely white flowers in the summer, making them a stunning addition to your home decor. While they may produce pollen and have a floral scent, peace lilies do best in shaded areas and keep well-moisturized soil.

8. Boston Fern

Boston Ferns are natural humidifiers that help purify the air by removing toxins like formaldehyde and xylene. They prefer indirect sunlight, a cool temperature, and a humidity level of 50 to 80 percent. They are easy to care for and may help prevent dry skin that can result from staying in air-conditioned spaces for extended periods.

Conclusion

Houseplants offer several health benefits in addition to making your home look and feel more inviting. By selecting the right plants, you can enjoy cleaner air, better sleep, improved mood, and enhanced cognitive function, among other health benefits. Whether you have a green thumb or are new to gardening, there’s a plant out there that will suit your needs. Consider the unique benefits of each plant to make a well-informed decision on which to bring home.