Bringing Nature Inside: The Mental Health Benefits of Houseplants

If you can’t get outside to feed your garden birds or take a walk in nature, houseplants offer a simple way to bring the calming beauty of the natural world indoors.

snake plant

Reducing Stress and Anxiety

The presence of indoor plants has been scientifically linked to lower stress levels. A 2015 study published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology found that interacting with indoor plants can induce both physiological and psychological relaxation. Participants who engaged in plant-related tasks experienced lower blood pressure and felt calmer compared to those performing computer-based tasks.

Furthermore, the act of tending to plants provides a sense of purpose and achievement, which can alleviate anxiety. The routine of watering, pruning, and nurturing plants offers a calming ritual that helps to divert attention from daily worries.

  • Increasing Productivity

    Indoor plants have been proven to enhance concentration and productivity. A study by the University of Exeter revealed that employees working in environments enriched with plants were 15% more productive than those in spaces without greenery. The presence of plants improved attention span, increased task performance, and boosted workplace satisfaction.

    For those working from home, introducing plants into your workspace can provide similar benefits. Plants like Aloe Vera or Maidenhair Fern are excellent choices for desks, offering a touch of nature without taking up much space.

  • Improving Air Quality

    While the extent of air purification by indoor plants is still being researched, certain plants are known to remove toxins and enhance indoor air quality. Plants such as English Ivy, Snake Plant, and Heart-Leaf Philodendron are recognised for their air-purifying qualities.

    However, while plants contribute to a
    healthier environment, they should complement other air quality measures such as proper ventilation and air filtration.

  • Healing Qualities: Lowering Blood Pressure, Anxiety, and Fatigue

    The therapeutic effects of indoor plants
    extend beyond mental health to physical well-being. A study found that patients recovering from surgery in rooms with plants required less pain medication, had
    lower blood pressure and heart rates, and experienced reduced anxiety and
    fatigue.

    This suggests that indoor plants can serve as a non-invasive, affordable, and effective way to improve recovery environments
    and overall health.

a snake plant

Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

Known for its air-purifying qualities, the snake plant is low-maintenance and thrives in low-light conditions.

ZZ plant

ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

Ideal for beginners, as it requires minimal care and can tolerate low light and infrequent watering.

Spider plant

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Renowned for its air-cleaning abilities, the spider plant is pet-friendly and grows well in various light conditions.

peace lily

Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

Beyond its elegant appearance, the peace lily improves air quality and thrives in low-light environments.

Philodendron

With its lush, trailing vines, the philodendron adds a touch of greenery and is easy to care for.

Pothos house plant

Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Known for its air-purifying properties, pothos is a hardy plant that can thrive in various light conditions.

Aloe Vera

Beyond its decorative appeal, aloe vera offers medicinal properties and is easy to maintain.

AI image of a group of houseplants

Integrating indoor plants into your home is a simple yet effective way to enhance both mental and physical health.

Written by Chris Smith

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