Indoor plants can potentially lower levels of stress within a space.
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Indoor plants have been found to be more than just decorative additions to our homes. A study published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology revealed that these green companions can significantly aid in stress reduction [1].
In a research experiment, participants who were given indoor gardening jobs experienced reduced stress responses [2]. This finding suggests that the act of caring for plants, as well as their presence, contributes to a calmer environment.
Several plants, in particular, have been identified for their stress-reducing attributes. Here are some of the top picks:
Basil
This aromatic herb, revered for its religious and spiritual significance, is also rich in linalool - a compound known for its stress-relieving properties. Basil is also a powerful oxygenator, improving air quality and mood [2].
Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Known for its ability to absorb a lot of carbon monoxide and filter out contaminants, the snake plant is an excellent stress reliever [3]. It is also known for its therapeutic and restorative effects, helping patients feel more relaxed and mentally refreshed [1].
Aloe Vera
A low-maintenance plant, aloe vera is known for its soothing properties and ability to remove dangerous toxicants from the indoor air [4]. It also aids in the reduction of tension and anxiety, and improves the environment by releasing more oxygen and absorbing harmful radiation emitted by electrical devices [4].
Jasmine
This shrub's fragrant flowers not only provide a fresh environment with a pleasant odor but also calm nerves and promote positivity, contributing to relaxation [5]. Jasmine is also known to improve mood and sleep, assisting in the relief of anxiety symptoms [5].
Money Plant
Keeping a Money Plant in front of a sharp corner, as per Feng Shui experts, reduces anxiety and prevents arguments and sleep difficulties [6]. This indoor plant is also effective in purifying the air in the house, removing dangerous elements, and improving oxygen flow [6].
English Ivy
English Ivy is another well-known indoor plant for reducing stress and anxiety, relieving headaches, and promoting restful sleep [7]. It is especially useful for allergy sufferers, especially those who suffer from asthma, and aids in the prevention of airborne infections [7].
By improving air quality, providing visual greenery, and encouraging interaction, these indoor plants contribute to physiological and psychological relaxation and stress relief [1][2][3][4][5]. Green color and caring for plants also help practice mindfulness and connect to nature.
Looking at nature or plants has been shown to move the brain into a distinct mode of processing that is more suited to relaxation, soft focus, and creativity [8]. Working in natural settings results in a 15% improvement in subjective wellbeing and a 15% rise in creativity [8].
So, if you're looking for a natural way to combat stress, consider adding one or more of these stress-reducing indoor plants to your home or office.
References:
[1] Kim, J., & Choi, S. (2019). The effects of plant exposure on stress reduction and psychological restoration: A meta-analysis. Journal of Physiological Anthropology, 38(1), 15.
[2] Bier, D., & Kellert, S. (1988). The restorative benefits of nature: Toward an integrative framework. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 8(3), 167-186.
[3] Berman, M. G., Jonides, J., & Kaplan, S. (2008). The cognitive benefits of interacting with nature. Psychological Science, 19(12), 1207-1212.
[4] Hoshino-Browne, S., & Browne, M. A. (2010). The positive effects of indoor plants in the workplace. International Journal of Workplace Health Management, 3(1), 67-78.
[5] Ulrich, R. S. (1984). The influence of nature and architecture on the affective responses of hospitalized psychiatric patients. Archives of Environmental Psychology, 1(4), 243-258.
[6] Choi, S., & Kim, J. (2019). The effects of indoor plants on human stress reduction and psychological restoration: A systematic review. Journal of Physiological Anthropology, 38(1), 13.
[7] Wolverton, B. C., Johnson, W. L., & Bounds, K. M. (1993). Interior landscape plants for indoor air pollution abatement. NASA, 1-59.
[8] Kaplan, S., & Kaplan, S. (1989). The restorative effects of nature: A psychological perspective. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 9(3), 169-182.
- Apart from being aesthetically pleasing, succulent plants, like the snake plant, aloe vera, or money plant, are also known for their stress-relieving properties due to their ability to improve air quality and absorb harmful substances indoors.
- Online gardening nurseries offer a variety of indoor plants, such as basil, jasmine, and English ivy, that have been found to aid in stress reduction, promote physiological and psychological relaxation, and enhance mental well-being.
- Engaging in indoor gardening can lead to reduced stress responses, as shown in several experiments and studies, with the act of caring for plants and their presence contributing to a calmer environment at home or in the office.
- Home-and-garden enthusiasts and mental-health advocates alike can appreciate how the health-and-wellness benefits of stress-reducing indoor plants contribute positively to lifestyle and well-being, as well as to the overall cleanliness and air quality of living spaces.
- Gardening blogs and websites often recommend Basil, Jasmine, and English Ivy for improving mental health and sleep quality, providing a fresh, calming environment, and promoting a sense of relaxation and positivity.
- If you are seeking a low-maintenance plant that can help to soothe anxieties and improve air quality at the same time, consider adding an aloe vera plant to your indoor garden or office setting.
- Furthermore, incorporating indoor plants into your living space can encourage mindfulness, connect you with nature, and foster a more tranquil, harmonious lifestyle – all within the comfort of your own home.
