Live where you belong: among the plants
How often have we heard these phrases from friends and family? “I enjoy being one with nature”, “Nature heals me”, “I try to be among nature as often as I can”. The truth is that we are nature. One of mankind’s biggest mistakes has been excluding the self from natural forces. We might look and think differently, but we are so much a part of nature. And, it has a great power: it heals our souls and provides for our existence. Just like a pet improves the mood after a long work day, indoor plants play a huge role by being the mood and energy enhancers around us. These ever-beautiful green friends have a healing effect on the human mind like none other. All of us need this silent healing in today’s highly challenging and competitive world. Here are some plants that you can have in your compact space to be your silent-support buddies.
The Winter Queen: Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemums may flower annually during the winter season but their benefits are forever. Chrysanthemums, that most people simply forget after the flowering season, are capable of clearing traces of chemicals from your home. They have a great ability to absorb volatile organic compounds including formaldehyde, benzene, ammonia, and trichloroethylene. These chemicals are often found in many household products and have harmful effects on our bodies.
The Bedroom Plant: ZZ
The trusty, hardy ZZ is every plant owner’s dream come true. It thrives on neglect. Just place it on the bedside table and forget about it, except watering it once in a while. ZZ is not just drought resistant but also air purifying. It provides abundant oxygen and is, therefore, the best choice for a bedroom plant. The luscious dark green leaves will also add a zing to the decor of your house.
Mood Uplifter: Lemon
Lemon may seem like a dud in this list but do not underestimate its power. Ohio researchers believe that the fragrance of lemon is a better mood supporter than even lavender. Its lemony scent keeps the interiors fresh and mood uplifted at all times. It bears tiny, pretty white flowers and delicious fruits that you can use to flavour your food and beverages.
Sleeping Aid: Gardenia
Gardenia is a gorgeous flowering plant that produces white fragrant flowers. It fills the home with a sweet scent and aids sound sleep. It has positive effects on the insomnia-affected population. German researchers have discovered that the compound in gardenia fragrance has the same effect as the prescription strength drugs on insomnia, without the side effects!
Aromatherapy Queen: Lavender
Everyone loves the beautiful and fragrant lavender. The tall plant with purple flowers is not just soothing to look at but has calming effects as it helps soothe nerves. It is also beneficial to those suffering from depression, insomnia, and anxiety. The Miami Miller School of Medicine study showed that the scent of lavender soothed babies and transcended them into deep sleep.
Air Purifier: Spider Plant
Spider plant is one of the safest and most beneficial plants to grow at home. It is non-toxic to pets and humans alike. It is air purifying and removes the traces of carbon monoxide from the home environment. With its narrow, long, and strap-shaped leaves emerging in all directions from the centre, it also looks stunning sitting on a windowsill or anywhere in the house.
The Best Energiser: Mint
Mint is one of the easiest plants to grow. You can grow it in a pot or even propagate it in water, either way, it blooms very well. The minty scent of the plant is a great energy booster. It boosts mood as well as memory and has the double benefit of adding great flavour to food and drinks. There are over 600 varieties of mint in the world and every one of them offers the same benefit, if not more.
Mosquito Protector: Geranium
Scented geraniums have a varied fragrance range and very attractive foliage. With flowers growing in a bunch, these make perfect plants to hang in baskets or place in garden beds. The flowers are known to keep mosquitoes at bay, making this plant a must-have at home, especially in warmer climates. It’s a natural insecticide with no side effects and tons of beauty.
Natural Decor: Peace Lily
Peace lily is a perennial flowering plant that produces white blooms with yellow accents. The deep green foliage and contrasting white flowers make it a great choice for indoor plants. Its long green leaves and bulb-shaped white flowers will instantly add to the magnificence of your house. It also emanates a faint scent that induces a calming feeling.
Pop of Colour: Monstera
Monstera are some of the most preferred indoor plants. Their beautiful foliage is the main attraction. The huge dark green leaves with the most distinct cut-outs add an unmatched vibrancy to the home while also offering benefits such as purifying the air of toxins such as formaldehyde. From indoor spaces to wide-open spaces, monsteras have something for all homes.
Chemical Purifier: Pothos
Pothos is one of the most famous houseplants. Besides looking appealing with its heart-shaped leaves, pothos can detoxify the garage and other low-light rooms. It thrives in a low-light environment and scrubs the air of pollutants. It is especially beneficial if your home is exposed to car exhaust, paint fumes, cleaning agents, and other chemicals
Moisture Restorer: Boston Fern
Boston Fern is one of the indoor plants that act as natural humidifier and air purifier. One of the easiest to maintain, it helps alleviate dry skin by just being around you. This is a great choice for all those who have air conditioning running 24×7.
Natural Cosmetic: Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a wonderful succulent that has a long list of health benefits. Aloe gel has antibacterial and antioxidant properties. It shortens the wound healing time, soothes burns, and moisturises the skin. It is one of the main ingredients in many skin-soothing cosmetics. Also, it is known to be beneficial in treating diabetes. It looks pretty and makes you look pretty, too! Apart from all the benefits, it grows with minimal attention; basically, it is a win-win in all aspects.
Air Quality Booster: Snake Plant
The snake plant is also known as the mother-in-law’s tongue. This plant has a unique ability to convert used-up carbon dioxide back to oxygen. It also removes harmful toxins like toluene, xylene, benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. The snake plant is truly one of the best plants for air purification. It will help you breathe better without investing in expensive air purifiers.
Revered One: English Ivy
This beautiful evergreen, perennial plant has been idolised since the times of the ancient Romans and Greeks for many reasons. English ivy offers many benefits, especially to people suffering from respiratory conditions. It helps breathing conditions such as asthma, COPD, and bronchitis as it naturally relaxes the airways and reduces the amount of coughing. It is one of the indoor plants known to eliminate airborne mould particles and allergens. That makes it an excellent bedroom plant.
Article by: Gauri D.
Illustrations by: Dhvani Design