Poor sleep can lead to decreased productivity, diminished energy, and adverse health effects. Stress and anxiety are the primary culprits behind most sleep-related problems.
Numerous studies have demonstrated that immersion in nature can significantly reduce cortisol levels and blood pressure, enhance immune system function, and promote relaxation. Furthermore, plants contribute to air purification by absorbing unpleasant odors and molds, which can affect respiratory and lung health.
Helpful Hints:
Ensure that any plants in homes with pets or children are non-toxic. Toxic plants should be either disposed of or placed out of reach.
Clean your plants' leaves weekly to maintain their air filtering efficiency.
NASA suggests having 15-18 air-purifying plants for an area of 1800 square feet. Distribute several plants in each bedroom for optimal effect.
1. Jasmine
Jasmine is a lush, trailing plant adorned with delicate flowers that are typically white or pink. It is renowned for its ability to reduce anxiety, promoting deeper and more rejuvenating sleep.
Having a jasmine plant in your bedroom at night can lead to heightened alertness and productivity during daytime hours. Moreover, it emits a subtle and invigorating fragrance!
2. Lavender
Lavender is renowned for its sleep-inducing fragrance, known to decelerate heart rate, and reduce blood pressure as well as stress levels.
A particular study observed that lavender's scent diminished crying in infants, promoting sleep and significantly alleviating stress for both mother and child.
For women, lavender encourages light sleep, decreases rapid-eye movement during sleep, and shortens the duration required to fall asleep."
3. Snake Plant
Snake plants are among the easiest plants to maintain. They require watering only once every two to three weeks. Like most plants, they utilize carbon dioxide at night, converting it into oxygen. Research indicates that higher oxygen levels can lead to improved sleep quality. Additionally, snake plants help purify the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and benzene.
4. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is an excellent plant for those lacking a green thumb. It endures neglect and infrequent watering.
This plant propagates readily, meaning a single plant can produce enough offspring to populate your home.
When sliced lengthwise, aloe vera exudes a gel that can be applied to soothe minor cuts and burns, insect stings, dry skin, and sunburns.
5. Gardenia
The enchanting scent of Gardenia blossoms can permeate your living space, offering a delightful aroma.
This plant is not only aesthetically pleasing but also beneficial for health, particularly for those suffering from insomnia or sleep disturbances. A recent study has shown its efficacy in reducing anxiety and enhancing sleep quality, rivaling the effects of Valium.
While Gardenias flourish under bright, indirect sunlight and require attentive care, they may pose a challenge for novice plant enthusiasts.
6. Spider Plant
Spider plants are resilient champions of air purification.
Capable of eliminating up to 90% of formaldehyde present in your home's atmosphere, these plants tackle a chemical commonly found in various building materials that is a potential carcinogen. Formaldehyde often originates from adhesives, grout, and fillers used in construction.
Additionally, spider plants are effective at absorbing unpleasant odors and fumes, thereby enhancing the air quality for you and your loved ones.
7. Valerian
Valerian, a perennial plant that flowers in summer, exudes a sweet fragrance. It thrives with around six hours of direct sunlight daily.
In the 16th century, its blossoms were highly sought after as an ingredient for perfumes. Conversely, the root was commonly utilized in teas and tinctures as a remedy for insomnia.
Inhaling its aroma can facilitate quicker onset of sleep for those experiencing difficulty falling asleep.
8. English Ivy
English ivy is remarkably easy to cultivate, thriving even in low light conditions.
Known for its air-purifying qualities, this plant can alleviate symptoms associated with allergies or asthma, which may contribute to better sleep for individuals with respiratory issues. Remarkably, English Ivy can eliminate up to 94% of airborne fecal matter and 78% of mold spores within just 12 hours.
As a trailing plant, English ivy should be placed on a high shelf or in a hanging planter to prevent it from spreading onto the ground. Regular pruning is recommended to manage its growth and ensure it remains out of reach of pets and children.
9. Peace Lily
Also known as Spathiphyllum, the peace lily is very easy to care for. It is quite forgiving following periods of neglect and wilts when it requires more water.
By suppressing airborne microbes, the peace lily helps alleviate allergy symptoms, which can provide relief from the irritating dry noses and throats that keep you awake at night.
This plant also eliminates toxins such as benzene, trichloroethylene, and formaldehyde from household air. Thanks to the moisture released by its flowers, it can increase a room's humidity by up to 5%.
10. Golden Pothos
Pothos, often displayed as an elegant hanging greenery, demands minimal care, making it an ideal indoor companion.
Its remarkable air-purifying abilities are evidenced by its capacity to eliminate nearly 9,000 micrograms of formaldehyde from the surrounding atmosphere in a mere 24-hour span. Additionally, it impressively eradicates over 70% of benzene present in the air within the same timeframe. The purification process extends beyond the air; the soil within which Pothos resides also contributes to this filtration phenomenon.
Urban dwellers should consider the strategic placement of this plant, particularly near bedroom windows, to serve as a natural detoxifier against potential airborne pollutants that infiltrate city residences.
