As someone who spends most of their time indoors, I noticed that the days started to blend into each other. My mood was often low, and my productivity was dwindling. After some research, I stumbled upon a simple yet effective solution – houseplants. Not only do they purify the air and add a dash of aesthetic appeal to any space, but many studies have also shown that they can significantly improve our mood, reduce stress, and enhance concentration.
Here are the 13 houseplants that I added to my space which made a world of difference to my mental health.
1. Snake Plant
The Snake plant, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, is a hardy plant that requires minimum care. This makes it a great choice for beginners and people who often forget to water their plants.
The Snake plant is not just all about the looks. It is an excellent air purifier, removing toxins such as formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene from the air. The best part? It releases oxygen at night, unlike most plants that only do so during the day. Therefore, it might be a good idea to keep one in your bedroom to enjoy a night of better sleep.
2. Lavender
If you’re looking for a plant that can help you unwind after a long day, look no further than Lavender. It’s not just pretty to look at, but its soothing scent is known to relieve tension and induce sleep.
You can keep a Lavender plant in your bedroom or your workspace. Every time you’re feeling stressed, take a moment to inhale its calming aroma. Don’t worry if you don’t have a green thumb; Lavender plants are relatively easy to maintain.
3. Peace Lily
The Peace Lily is a beautiful plant that can instantly brighten up any corner of your home. Its glossy leaves and elegant white flowers can bring a touch of sophistication to your space.
But the Peace Lily is not all about the aesthetics. This plant is a powerhouse when it comes to purifying the air. It removes harmful toxins like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene from the air, making your indoor environment cleaner and healthier.
4. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is considered a miracle plant, and for good reason. Apart from its well-known skin healing properties, Aloe Vera also purifies the air and can give your mood a much-needed boost.
Aloe Vera is a succulent, meaning it’s pretty low maintenance. The gel inside its leaves can come in handy for treating skin irritations or burns. To top it all, it’s also an excellent air purifier, removing pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene from the air.
5. Pothos
Pothos, or Devil’s Ivy, is another great choice for beginners. It’s a hardy plant that can survive in different light conditions and occasional missed waterings.
Not only is Pothos an attractive addition to your home decor, but it’s also known for its excellent air-purifying abilities. The plant absorbs toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene from the air, contributing to a healthier indoor environment.
6. Rubber Plant
Rubber plants are known for their large, glossy leaves that can add a dramatic touch to your space. They are relatively easy to care for and can grow quite tall if given the right conditions.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, rubber plants are excellent air purifiers. They effectively remove toxins like formaldehyde from the air. Having a rubber plant in your home not only improves the air quality but also creates a calming and relaxing environment.
7. Spider Plant
Spider plants are another beginner-friendly choice. They can thrive in different light conditions and are quite forgiving if you forget to water them occasionally.
Spider plants are known for their air-purifying properties. They can remove toxins like formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene from the air. Plus, their arching foliage can add a touch of elegance to your space.
8. English Ivy
English Ivy is a popular houseplant that is known for its cascading vines. It requires minimal care, making it a great choice for beginners.
Apart from its visual appeal, English Ivy is also a powerful air purifier. It’s known to remove toxins like benzene, formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene from the air. Plus, its trailing vines can add a touch of charm to your home decor.
9. Boston Fern
Boston Ferns are beautiful plants with delicate fronds. They prefer a humid environment and indirect light, making them perfect for bathrooms or kitchens.
Not only do Boston Ferns add a touch of greenery to your space, but they are also known for their air-purifying abilities. They can remove toxins like formaldehyde and xylene from the air, contributing to a healthier indoor environment.
10. Philodendron
Philodendrons are easy-care houseplants that come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They can tolerate different light conditions, making them a versatile choice for any room in your home.
Apart from their aesthetic appeal, Philodendrons are also powerful air purifiers. They can remove toxins like benzene and formaldehyde from the air. Having a Philodendron in your home not only improves the air quality but also creates a relaxing environment.
11. ZZ Plant
ZZ plants are popular houseplants due to their tolerance for low light and neglect. They have glossy, dark green leaves that can add a touch of elegance to any space.
ZZ plants are not only visually appealing, but they also have air-purifying properties. They can remove toxins like xylene, toluene, and benzene from the air. Plus, their easy-care nature makes them a perfect choice for busy individuals.
12. Chinese Evergreen
Chinese Evergreens are attractive houseplants that are known for their vibrant foliage. They can tolerate low light conditions and occasional missed waterings, making them a great choice for beginners.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, Chinese Evergreens are also excellent air purifiers. They can remove toxins like benzene and formaldehyde from the air. So, not only do they beautify your home, but they also contribute to a healthier indoor environment.
13. Jasmine
Jasmine plants are known for their fragrant flowers. They prefer a sunny spot and need regular waterings, so they do require a bit more care than some of the other plants on this list.
Having a Jasmine plant in your home can have a calming effect due to its soothing fragrance. It’s a great plant to have in your bedroom to help induce sleep. Plus, its beautiful flowers can add a touch of elegance to your space.
