Do you know that adding some greenery to your living space can help to boost your mood and reduce anxiety? Studies have shown that certain houseplants can have a positive impact on mental health, by purifying the air, increasing oxygen levels, and providing a calming effect. In this article, we’ll introduce you to some of the best houseplants for lifting your spirits, backed by science, so you can create a more peaceful and relaxing environment in your home.
Houseplants not only add a touch of greenery to your home decor but also have been proven to have a positive effect on mental health. If you’re looking for houseplants that can help lift your spirits, there are several options to choose from. Some of the best houseplants for boosting your mood include snake plants, spider plants, peace lilies, English ivy, aloe vera, pothos, and ZZ plants. Check them out!
#1 Snake Plant
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One of the most oxygen-producing houseplants according to a study published by Harvard University Extension is the Snake Plant. This plant can assist in improving breathing and promoting better sleep, ultimately contributing to a stress-free lifestyle. In addition, the Snake Plant was featured in NASA’s 1989 experiment and ranked as one of the top air-cleaning plants.
#2 Rosemary
Source: thespruce
Rosemary has been found to have stress-reducing and memory-enhancing properties, according to research. Inhaling the scent of rosemary can lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol in the blood. Additionally, a study conducted by the Department of Clinical and Translational Research Methodology in Japan found that taking rosemary extract can help to improve mental energy and sleep quality in individuals.
#3 Lavender
Source: livingetc
Lavender fragrance has anxiolytic, sedative, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties, making it a potential treatment for various neurological disorders, according to a study by the Shefa Neuroscience Research Center in Tehran. Inhaling lavender scent may benefit those with busy and stressful lifestyles. Europe PMC claims that it also improves sleep and reduces anxiety and stress levels.
#4 Jasmine
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Inhaling jasmine’s fragrance can offer therapeutic benefits, such as diffusing aggression, boosting vigor, lowering blood pressure, and relieving fatigue, as stated by Solara Mental Health. Studies have also found that jasmine oil has a calming effect on the central nervous system and mood responses, making it a useful tool for managing mood swings.
#5 Peace Lilies
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According to research, Peace Lily is a powerful natural air purifier, especially effective at removing toluene and xylene from indoor air, which can cause stress. In addition to its air-purifying qualities, the presence of large foliage plants such as Peace Lily can enhance mood and promote a positive mindset.
#6 Holy Basil
Source: housing
Tulsi has been found to lower lifestyle-related chronic diseases, including diabetes and metabolic syndrome, as well as psychological stress, according to research by the School of Health and Biomedical Sciences in Australia. The School of Health Sciences at RMIT University found that tulsi can address physical, chemical, metabolic, and psychological stress through unique pharmacological actions. Additionally, tulsi has multiple therapeutic actions, including adaptogenic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and immunomodulatory effects, which can effectively lower stress and anxiety levels.
#7 Chrysanthemum
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Inhaling the scent of chrysanthemum flowers has been found to enhance feelings of joy and improve mood, according to research. The flowers contain eucalyptol, a scent compound also known to improve short-term memory. Additionally, a study by the Department of Pharmacology at the School of Pharmacy in Korea suggests that chrysanthemum has anxiolytic-like effects that can lower anxiety and alleviate insomnia. For maximum benefits, it is recommended to consume chrysanthemum tea infused with its flowers on a daily basis.
#8 Eucalyptus
Source: houseplantcentral
According to research conducted at Korea University’s Department of Basic Nursing Science, the fragrance of eucalyptus oil has been found to reduce anxiety levels in individuals. To enjoy its aroma indoors, it is recommended to grow the plant and crush its leaves to enhance the scent.
#9 Aloe Vera
Source: happysprout
Research from the School of Traditional Medicine in Tehran shows that Aloe vera extract has sedative and hypnotic properties that promote deep sleep and reduce stress and anxiety levels. Growing the plant indoors provides access to its fresh gel, which can be consumed before bedtime. The study also found that Aloe vera can mitigate turning behavior and head bobbing.
