We all know that plants look nice and bright in your home but did you know that they are actually good for you?
We know you are probably thinking “of course you would say that – you sell plants!” but it is true, plants have so many wonderful benefits if you start to introduce them into your home and make them part of your interior style.
Obviously, they look great and therefore they bring you pleasure and make you smile. Smiling is proven to reduce stress and calm the nervous system; we think that in itself is a great reason to have plants in your home. However, there is also plenty of scientific evidence out there proving that plants are beneficial to your life and your wellbeing at home and at work.
We have put together a little guide to help you choose some fabulous plants for your home or offices that can benefit your mood, life and your health; as well as making your space look beautiful!
Peace Lilies (Spathiphyllum)
In studies conducted by NASA, these beautiful plants were proven to remove common household toxins like trichloroethylene, formaldehyde and benzene; which are all chemicals released into our indoor air, by many household items. The peace lily is also said to remove mould spores in the air. With all these health benefits, this is a great choice of pot plant for your home. These green plants with their familiar white blooms are easy to look after and will thrive in your bathroom or kitchen.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum Comosum)
The spider plant; a very on-trend plant that instantly brings some greenery indoors! We suggest you put it in a white ceramic or try it in a plant hanger. Native to Africa, this leafy plant is happiest away from direct heat, however, it is extremely versatile and easy to take care of.
Studies have proven that this plant can purify the air and remove formaldehydes (toxins found in plastic bags, carpets, rugs etc). The leaves, the plant roots and their microorganisms play a large role in the chemical removal.
In rural Africa the plant is also eaten and is very high in micronutrients and vitamins, however, we would recommend you enjoy the aesthetic and air cleansing benefits of the plant, rather than having it for lunch!
Lavender (Lavendula)
Everybody knows that lavender is a magic herb! During cooler months you can grow lavender indoors and benefit from this fragrant plant all day long. It is well researched that lavender can be useful when treating insomnia, depression, anxiety and restlessness. Rub the flowers gently to release the aroma, or pick a sprig or two and pop on your bedside table to ease you into a deep sleep. It’s even great in cooking- we have found a lovely recipe for some Chocolate and Lavender Brownies which we’ll bake for our colleagues at Hills Plants HQ soon!
Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis Miller)
This gorgeous spiky succulent has increased in popularity due to its wide range of natural health properties. The leaves are full of a gel-like substance that contains numerous beneficial compounds that can be found in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
As a plant, it is very easy to care for and will thrive in your home or office. It is proven to be particularly good at purifying the air around you.
We found this wonderful article that you all may enjoy, writen by our friends across the pond. https://www.healthambition.com/health-benefits-aloe-vera/
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis Exaltata ‘Bostoniensis’)
The Boston fern is a great choice to add some lush green foliage to your home. For a long time this is the plant people have turned to for some “peace and tranquillity”. It is also very well known for its ability to remove air pollutants. This is because it emits a huge amount of water vapour in to the nearby air, due to its insatiable appetite for water! The more water vapour emitted the greater ability it has to remove the unwanted toxins.
We hope this short guide has helped you take a leap in to the world of healthy plants! All flowering and green plants will obviously provide health benefits; we have selected just a few for this blog.
If you want to know more or have any questions, feel free to get in touch today and our Plant Experts will gladly help.
Sources:
- BC Wolverton; WL Douglas; K Bounds (July 1989). A study of interior landscape plants for indoor air pollution abatement (Report). NASA. NASA-TM-108061.
- Wolverton, B. C., et al. A study of interior landscape plants for indoor air pollution abatement: an interim report
- Ref: Amar Surjushe, Resham Vasani and D G Saple. Aloe Vera: A Short Review. Indian J Dermatol. 2008; 53(4): 163–166.