Health With Houseplants

Nowadays, most people have houseplants, because of course, the aesthetic of plants aids in your interior design! But plants are not only just visually appealing, they also provide several physical and mental health benefits.

A study out of Japan by Dr. Qing Li found that Forest Bathing, or simply just spending time in nature, may reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and anger. As well as strengthen the immune system, improve cardiovascular and metabolic health, and boost overall well-being (Berkeley Edu). So, the more you collect plants to create a forest or jungle like vibe within your home, the better!

Plants act as a natural filter within your home, researchers have found that rooms with more plants have less dust and mold – simply put plants purify the air we breathe!

Certain plants offer specific physical benefits such as herbs like mint aiding in digestion or aloe plants that can be used to treat sunburns and other skin conditions (WebMd).

Top purifying houseplants:

• Spider/Airplane Plant

• Dracaena Marginata (Dragon Tree)

• Aglaonema/Chinese Evergreen

• Philodendrons

• Rubber Plants

Along with physical benefits, houseplants promote mental health and wellness as Dr. Li’s study found.

Having a collection of plants may help to fight depression. Seeing green every day breaks up the dullness of winter aiding in seasonal depression. In those duller moments, your plant obsession may also aid in sharpening focus and attentiveness while at work or in classrooms – along with increasing mood, productivity, and reducing stress, fatigue. Which we all know we need at work or school!

Your plant squad or fam may also be a relationship booster! In a similar effect to having a pet(s), plants can be worked into a busier lifestyle, help to develop compassion for another living thing which translates to people, and are great for people who can become lonely at home. Actually, talking to your plants is both beneficial for you and the plants, as it gives them CO2!

Sandy, a loyal Colonial Gardens customer explains how plants help her, “Plants really help me kind of meditate and control my anxiety. Especially after a full day of work, it puts my focus on something more soothing and calming and I can kinda de-stress and enjoy the rest of my day.” The photos in this blog feature her plant filled home!

Plants, especially when grouped together, release water into the air, increasing humidity levels in the home which may help keep respiratory issues at bay and skin healthy and moisturized. When air quality and oxygen are improved, your mind is clearer!

Low maintenance houseplants:

• Snake Plant/Mother in Law’s Tongue

• Pothos

• ZZ Plant

• Cast Iron Plant

• Tillandsia

If you ever think your plant obsession is getting a little out of control, just remember plants promote both your physical and mental health, so keep on collecting!

Follow Sandy’s plant instagram: sandys_plantys