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In a world that often feels overwhelming, finding natural and effective ways to manage anxiety and stress is more important than ever. Amidst the abundance of coping tools and treatment options, there’s one simple and beautiful solution stands out: houseplants for mental health. Believe it or not: these green additions in your home do more than just decorate our spaces. From the air-purifying properties of calming plants to their ability to create a serene environment, indoor plants have proven to be powerful allies in the fight against anxiety. Even the soil in plants for anxiety can trigger a release of serotonin. So it’s safe to say that it is officially time to greenify your home and bring some nature into your space for an extra dose of anxiety relief and overall mental health and wellbeing.
The Power of Indoor Plants for Mental Health
Houseplants offer numerous benefits that go well beyond their aesthetic appeal. They have a remarkable impact on our senses, from their pleasing appearance to their invigorating fragrances and their soft textures. But have you ever wondered why they have such a positive influence on our mental health?
Recent research has explored the various ways in which houseplants can enhance our psychological and physical wellbeing. They quickly found that indoor plants improve air quality by filtering toxins and increasing oxygen levels. This has a direct impact on mental clarity and physical health. The presence of indoor plants has also shown to reduce stress, boost mood, and enhance productivity.
Even the simple act of caring for a plant can also provide a sense of purpose and routine, which is beneficial for mental health.
The Benefits of Calming Plants for Anxiety and Depression
Plants help reduce anxiety through various mechanisms. They create a calming environment by their mere presence, which can lower blood pressure and reduce stress hormones like cortisol. The act of tending to plants encourages mindfulness and can serve as a form of meditation, helping to distract from worries and promote a sense of calm.
Improved Air Quality
Houseplants filter out harmful toxins such as benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene, and release fresh oxygen 1. This improvement in air quality can enhance mental clarity and physical health, as you’re breathing in higher quality air. And the better the air you’re breathing, the better your mind and body are able to function.
This is why you feel great after spending time outdoors and getting a dose of fresh air and the earth’s natural healing properties.
On the other hand, if you work inside or spend long hours in your home, you’re regularly breathing in indoor toxins. These are known to negatively impact mental health. This is why many people struggling with mental health during the winter (hello, seasonal depression) because the windows and doors are tightly closed and the air quality is poor.
Reduced Stress Levels
Being around houseplants can lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, and reduce blood pressure 2.
According to several studies, having plants for anxiety in your home or office can have a soothing and comforting effect on your mind and body. The study involved participants who were asked to complete two tasks: repotting a houseplant and a short computer-based task.
After each task, the researchers measured their stress response by monitoring their heart rate and blood pressure. The study found that the indoor gardening task reduced stress levels in the participants, while the computer task caused a spike in heart rate and blood pressure. The study concludes that working with plants can help reduce both physiological and psychological stress.
Enhanced Mood
Interacting with plants or simply enjoying their presence can elevate our spirits, decrease anxiety, and increase overall happiness. The act of nurturing plants for anxiety can be therapeutic, providing a sense of accomplishment and a boost in mood.
A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology demonstrated that the presence of plants in a room can significantly improve mood and emotional well-being, highlighting the emotional benefits of plants for anxiety and depression.
Increased Productivity and Creativity
Having plants in workspaces or study areas can lead to higher job satisfaction, greater productivity, and increased creativity. The calming and refreshing presence of plants can enhance focus and motivation.
Research from the University of Exeter showed that employees working in environments with plants were 15% more productive than those without greenery. Plants create a stimulating and pleasant environment that fosters creativity and innovative thinking.
Sense of Purpose and Routine
Caring for calming plants involves regular routines such as watering, pruning, and repotting, which can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment. This is particularly beneficial for anyone struggling with anxiety or depression, as it offers a consistent and manageable task that can provide a sense of achievement and well-being.
The routine of plant care can also be a grounding activity, helping you feel more connecting to your surroundings and self.
Improved Concentration and Memory
The presence of calming plants has been shown to improve concentration and memory retention, making them valuable in learning and working environments.
A study by the University of Michigan found that being in nature or around natural elements, such as indoor plants for anxiety, can improve memory retention by up to 20% 3. This enhancement in cognitive function is attributed to the calming and restorative effects of greenery.
Better Sleep
Certain plants, such as lavender and jasmine, have properties that can improve sleep quality by creating a more relaxing environment. The soothing scents of these plants can reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Research published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry found that the scent of lavender has a sedative effect, helping to improve sleep quality and duration.
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Reduced Symptoms of Depression
The routine and care involved in maintaining indoor plants can also alleviate symptoms of depression by offering a manageable task that encourages a sense of achievement and well-being.
Engaging with plants for anxiety provides a form of therapy that can improve mood and reduce feelings of hopelessness. A study published in the Journal of Health Psychology found that gardening activities can promote neuroendocrine and affective restoration from stress, making it beneficial for people experiencing depression.
Even getting your hands in the soil can help, as the soil contains a bacterium that triggers a release of serotonin.
Increased Mindfulness
Tending to plants for anxiety and depression can serve as a form of mindfulness meditation, helping you stay present in the moment. The act of caring for plants requires attention and focus, which can distract you from anxious thoughts and worries, and promote mental clarity.
The practice of mindfulness through gardening has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and improve overall mental health.
Top Plants for Anxiety
As we know, indoor plants have an abundance of stress relief benefits that bring all kinds of natural healing right into your home. Once you start receiving the powerful anti-anxiety benefits of plants for anxiety, you’ll wonder how you ever survived without them.
Here are the top indoor plants for anxiety and overall mental health.
1. Pothos Plants Are Great for Beginners
Pothos plants are not just cute and Instagram-worthy, they’re also air-purifying champions! They’re great for fighting off nasty air pollutants like formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide, and can even get to get rid of stinky odors.
But wait, there’s more!
Pothos plants are like the natural, green equivalent of a spa day for your mind and body. Not only do they look amazing and add some green to your space, but they’re also helping you breathe better and feel better too.
Who knew plants could do all that, right? Their vines grow long and fast with a fierce dose of determination. And here’s a fun tip: try hanging your Pothos in a pot to symbolize reaching new heights and chasing your dreams. It’s like your own little reminder to never give up and keep pushing towards your goals.
Here are the benefits of having a Pothos plant in your home or office, in bullet points:
- Purifies the air by removing pollutants like formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide
- Helps eliminate odors
- Can alleviate eye irritation after long days of staring at screens
- Adds a touch of natural beauty to your space
- Easy to care for and low-maintenance
- Can be propagated easily to create more plants
- Can be grown in a variety of settings, including hanging baskets, pots, and trellises
- Studies suggest that interacting with plants can have positive effects on mental health and stress levels.
2. Succulents For Stress-Free Greenery
Did you know that keeping a succulent in your space can actually help you feel less stressed and more positive? It’s true! Scientific studies have shown that houseplants for anxiety, including succulents, can help reduce both psychological and physiological stress levels. In fact, a study conducted with young adults found that interacting with indoor plants can have a measurable impact on reducing stress and promoting feelings of calm.
So, if you’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed, a little succulent might be just what you need to help you relax and feel more positive. Not only are they cute and low-maintenance, but they can also have a real impact on your mental and emotional wellbeing. Plus, who doesn’t love having a little bit of nature indoors to brighten up their space?
Here are some additional benefits of succulents:
- Require minimal watering and maintenance, making them easy to care for
- Come in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes, making them attractive decorative plants
- Can be grown indoors or outdoors, depending on the species and the environment
- Able to tolerate harsh and dry conditions, making them ideal for drought-prone areas
- Produce oxygen and purify the air by absorbing toxins, improving the quality of the indoor air
- Can be propagated easily through cuttings, making them affordable and accessible to grow
- Can be used in various ways, including as medicinal plants, culinary ingredients, and ornamental displays
- Can help prevent soil erosion due to their deep root systems and ability to retain water
- Are known to have a calming effect and can help reduce stress and anxiety, providing mental health benefits
3. Peperomia Keep The Air Healthy
If you’re looking for indoor plants for anxiety and mental health that are equally as magical as they are beautiful, peperomia is it. These indoor plants are ideal for keeping the energy, air, and atmosphere in your home ideal for mental health. They reduce carbon dioxide levels, increase humidity, reduce certain pollutants, keep air temperatures down and reduce dust.
Peperomia also has a range of health benefits, such as soothing stomach aches, reducing inflammation of acne and boils through a topical tincture, boosting the healing process, providing pain relief, curing headaches, treating Rheumatoid Arthritis, aiding with kidney function, providing antifungal effects, and working as an antioxidant. Here’s a quick recap of the benefits:
- Has been used for centuries in Bolivia as a wound dressing to stop hemorrhage
- Has numerous medical benefits, including lower cholesterol levels and fewer infections
- Soothes stomach aches
- Reduces inflammation of acne and boils through a topical tincture
- Boosts the healing process
- Provides pain relief
- Cures headaches
- Treats Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Aids with kidney function
- Provides antifungal effects
- Works as an antioxidant
4. Air Plants for Anxiety Relief
Certainly by now, you’re seeing a theme – easy stress relieving houseplants for anxiety. Air plants are definitely on the list of the best plants for anxiety relief, as these beautiful pieces of the earth are incredibly easy to take care of. After all, you just have to soak them in a cup of water once a week. As for the mental health benefits of air plants, they’re just as awesome. They’re super low-maintenance and help reduce carbon dioxide in the air while also removing chemical pollutants and adding oxygen back into the air to help you breathe better.
5. Bird’s Nest Fern Filter Out Toxins
The quality of air in our homes can have a significant impact on our mental health, and addressing this challenge can be crucial. Fortunately, ferns are a great solution as they work like a good humidifier and can help alleviate stress by adding moisture to the air and improving breathability. They filter formaldehyde, xylene and toluene from the air which, as you already know, is key to using plants to boost your mental health. Plus, ferns are beautiful plants that can add aesthetic value to any room when placed in hanging baskets or decorative pots making them the perfect houseplant for anxiety.
Here are the benefits of ferns:
- Enhance the aesthetics of indoor spaces
- Remove harmful air pollutants from the environment
- Improve indoor air quality
- Increase humidity levels naturally
- Restore moisture to the air
- Create a soothing effect
- Particularly useful for those living in dry climates or during winter months when heating systems can dry out the air
6. Philodendron Plants Remove Nasty Toxins
Grab some philodendron plants and place them in every 100 square feet of living space for maximum benefits. Philodendrons are known to enhance air quality in homes, making them a great addition to any indoor space. These plants, which are famous for their lush foliage and sprawling, veiny leaves, are not only aesthetically pleasing but also effective in absorbing carbon dioxide and other harmful toxins from the air. The plant’s porous oxygenating leaves also help to brighten and freshen the room, creating a visually and atmospherically pleasing environment. In other words, they act as a vacuum, sucking out all the toxins in the air, particularly formaldehyde. So, this is one houseplant for anxiety that is a must!
Here are the benefits of Philodendrons:
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- Enhance air quality in homes
- Absorb carbon dioxide and other harmful toxins from the air
- Lush foliage and sprawling, veiny leaves are aesthetically pleasing
- Porous oxygenating leaves help to brighten and freshen the room
- Create a visually and atmospherically pleasing environment
- Ideal for those who want to improve indoor air quality naturally and enjoy the beauty of foliage in their homes.
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7. Calathea Plants are Super Air Purifiers
The calathea plant is an excellent houseplant for anxiety that purifies the air and generates fresh oxygen, making it a healthy addition to any indoor environment. The plant removes carbon dioxide and releases oxygen, promoting a healthier environment for humans. Additionally, the calathea plant enhances the aesthetics of indoor spaces, providing a pleasant and charming look. The plant also helps remove toxins present in the form of dust, ensuring you and your plant breathe fresh air. For those with dry skin and respiratory issues due to low humidity levels, placing a calathea plant in your room can add moisture and alleviate these issues. These plants for mental health are also kid and pet-friendly, allowing you to place them anywhere without worrying about your loved ones’ safety.
Here are the benefits of Calathea plants:
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- Purify indoor air and provide fresh oxygen
- Promote a healthier indoor environment by removing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen
- Enhance the aesthetics of indoor spaces
- Help remove toxins present in the form of dust, ensuring fresh air
- Add moisture to indoor air, making them helpful for those with dry skin and respiratory issues
- Kid and pet-friendly, making them a safe addition to any indoor space
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8. ZZ Plants Remove Toxins
The ZZ plant is an excellent air-purifying indoor plant, capable of eliminating harmful toxins such as xylene, toluene, and benzene to a significant degree. It is an easy-to-care-for plant that can survive with minimal sunlight and is drought-resistant. This is mainly due to the presence of rhizomes in its roots that help store water. The plant can also reduce stress and have a positive impact on health. Interestingly, in some parts of Africa, the leaves of ZZ plants are used for medicinal purposes as they can cure earaches.
Here are the benefits of ZZ plants:
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- Effective air-purifying properties that can eliminate harmful toxins such as xylene, toluene, and benzene
- Easy to care for and maintain, with the ability to survive in minimum sunlight and drought conditions due to the presence of water-storing rhizomes in its roots
- Reduces stress and has a positive impact on health
- In some parts of Africa, the leaves of ZZ plants are used for medicinal purposes to cure earaches.
9. Snake Plants Boost Good Vibes
The Snake plant is an excellent houseplant for anxiety that is known for its medicinal benefits, including its ability to remove indoor air pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene. It can also filter out impurities like xylene, trichloroethylene, toluene, and ammonia. During the night, the plant can remove up to 87% of these harmful toxins. In addition to this, the snake plant is capable of reducing the level of nitrate ions present in the air.
The Snake Plant is also great for producing an abundance of oxygen, which can improve the mood and energy levels of those in the room, making it an excellent addition to any lifeless or stressful space. Caring for a plant like the Snake Plant has been shown to benefit one’s sense of self-love and give a sense of purpose, ultimately reducing anxiety and stress levels. Simply watching your plant grow or taking the time to water it can provide a temporary escape from the stresses of daily life.
Here’s a quick recap:
- Snake Plants can remove indoor air pollutants, such as formaldehyde and benzene, and filter out impurities like xylene, trichloroethylene, toluene, and ammonia
- They can remove up to 87% of harmful toxins at night
- They can reduce the level of nitrate ions
- Growing a Snake Plant can improve the mood and energy levels of those in the room
- Caring for a plant like the Snake Plant can benefit one’s sense of self-love and give a sense of purpose, ultimately reducing anxiety and stress levels.
10. Money Plant Reduces Arguments and Anxiety
Money plants are also great air purifiers, removing harmful toxins such as benzene, toluene, xylene, and formaldehyde from the air. They even continue to produce oxygen at night, making them ideal for bedrooms. Another benefit of money plants is their ability to clean aquarium water by absorbing nitrates from the water. This helps improve the quality of the water and makes for a nicer environment for fish.
Money plants can also have a positive effect on mental health. Studies have found that interacting with plants can reduce anxiety and stress, with the majority of subjects reporting feelings of comfort and soothing. Viewing a money plant for just 5 minutes has been found to encourage psychological and physiological relaxation among older adults.
While some benefits of money plants are based on science, others are based on symbolism and beliefs, such as Feng Shui. For example, Feng Shui experts suggest placing a money plant in front of a sharp corner or angle to reduce anxiety. Others believe this houseplant for anxiety can assist with preventing arguments and sleep disorders.
11. Parlor Palm Removes Anxiety-Causing Toxins
The parlor palm offers a multitude of benefits for mental health, from improving air quality to adding style to their living spaces. The plant boasts nine key benefits, including filtering indoor air, releasing oxygen, improving mental health, removing harmful toxins, creating humidity, being safe for pets, being effective against allergies, adding subtropical style, and requiring low maintenance.
Research studies have shown that parlor palms and other indoor palm varieties effectively remove carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide from the air, creating clean air in the home. The plant also releases oxygen and removes toxins, resulting in improved mental health and increased productivity. Additionally, the parlor palm is effective in removing harmful particles such as formaldehyde, benzene, and ammonia from the air, making it a valuable addition to any home.
The plant also releases water vapor, creating humidity in the home, which can promote better sleep and work performance while reducing the chances of viral infections. Furthermore, the parlor palm is safe for pets, unlike some of the other houseplants for anxiety, and can be beneficial for allergy sufferers, as it filters the air and humidifies the home, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.
The parlor palm also adds a touch of sophistication to any living space with its lush foliage and subtropical style, making it a popular choice. It also plant is low-maintenance and requires little care, making it an ideal choice for busy homeowners who want to enjoy the benefits of indoor plants without a lot of upkeep.
Here’s a quick recap:
- Filters indoor air
- Releases oxygen
- Improves mental health
- Removes harmful toxins
- Creates humidity
- Safe for pets
- Effective against allergies
- Adds subtropical, sophisticated style to your home
- Low maintenance
12. Aloe Vera Plant Promotes Natural Healing and Anxiety Relief
One of my favourite houseplants for anxiety is aloe vera because it’s nearly impossible to kill and it has so many useful healing properties. Aloe vera is commonly used as a herbal remedy, as it contains healthful plant compounds that are beneficial to the body. They can be used to treat all kinds of health concerns, such as burns, acne, digestive issues, inflammation and oral health, while also purifying the air drastically. With this stress relieving plant in your bedroom or around your home, you can eliminate worry and stress from your mind, body, and spirit simply by getting the breath of fresh air that it brings, right to your indoors.
Here are some benefits of aloe vera you can expect:
- Aloe vera has antioxidant and antibacterial properties that help inhibit the growth of certain bacteria that can cause infections in humans.
- Aloe vera is an effective topical treatment for first and second-degree burns and may help heal other types of wounds.
- Aloe vera helps reduce dental plaque and canker sores.
- Aloe vera can help treat constipation.
- Topical aloe vera gel can slow aging of the skin and improve skin integrity, which could benefit dry skin conditions.
- Aloe vera may enhance insulin sensitivity and help improve blood sugar management.
Other Calming Herbs for Anxiety and Depression
Calming plants and herbs for anxiety, like chamomile, rosemary, and valerian have been used for centuries for their soothing properties. These plants can be grown indoors and used to create calming teas or simply enjoyed for their aromatic benefits.
Certain plants, like St. John’s wort and passionflower, are also known for their ability to alleviate symptoms of both anxiety and depression. These plants can be grown indoors and used to create natural remedies that support mental health.
Some other plants for anxiety specifically, due to their ability to reduce anxiety include lavender, mint, and lemon balm. These plants have soothing scents and can be used in various forms, such as oils or teas, to help manage anxiety symptoms.
Choosing the Right Plants for Anxiety
When selecting houseplants for anxiety, consider factors such as your living environment, the level of care required, and the specific benefits each plant offers. Some plants are better suited for low-light conditions, while others thrive in bright, indirect light.
Horticulturists and mental health professionals recommend choosing a variety of plants to create a diverse and stimulating environment. They also suggest incorporating plants into daily routines to enhance their benefits.
Conclusion
Incorporating houseplants into your living space is a natural and effective way to improve your mental health and reduce anxiety. The benefits of having plants indoors extend beyond their aesthetic appeal, offering significant advantages for both physical and mental well-being. By selecting the right plants and caring for them properly, you can create a calming and rejuvenating environment that supports your overall health.
If you’re looking for a simple and enjoyable way to boost your mental health, consider getting yourself a houseplant for anxiety and stress relief (or two, or three…). Not only do they add a pop of color and life to your living space, but they can also help you feel more calm, focused, and connected to nature. And who knows, with a little love and care, your houseplants may just become your new best friends!
FAQs
What are the best plants for anxiety?
Lavender, jasmine, and peace lilies are some of the best plants for reducing anxiety due to their calming properties and air-purifying abilities.
How do houseplants improve mental health?
Houseplants improve mental health by reducing stress, lowering blood pressure, and promoting a sense of calm through their presence and the act of caring for them.
Can indoor plants really help with anxiety and depression?
Yes, certain indoor plants have properties that can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression by improving air quality, reducing stress, and providing a sense of purpose.
What are some easy-to-care-for plants that help with anxiety?
Snake plants, aloe vera, and spider plants are easy-to-care-for options that offer significant mental health benefits.
How should I arrange my plants to maximize their calming effects?
Place plants in areas where you spend the most time, such as your living room or bedroom, and consider creating groupings of plants with similar care needs to enhance their calming effects.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when caring for houseplants?
Avoid overwatering, placing plants in incorrect lighting conditions, and neglecting regular maintenance like pruning and repotting.
Infographics about Calming Plants for Anxiety
- Wolverton, B.C., et al. (1989). Interior Landscape Plants for Indoor Air Pollution Abatement. NASA.
- Lee, M.S., et al. (2015). Interaction with indoor plants may reduce psychological and physiological stress by suppressing autonomic nervous system activity in young adults: a randomized crossover study. Journal of Physiological Anthropology, 34, 21.
- Han, K.T. (2009). Influence of limitedly visible leafy indoor plants on the psychology, behavior, and health of students at a junior high school in Taiwan. Environment and Behavior, 41(5), 658-692.
