The link between plants & mental well-being

The link between plants & mental well-being 

A recent study published in Lancet Planetary Health states that simply taking the time to look after plants can help to improve your sense of well-being and achieve a healthier mindset. In fact, the positive psychological impact of indoor plants can be so significant that they can have noticeable benefits on one’s physical health. 

Having a garden or houseplants has also been associated with markers of positive mental health; the hypothesis is that having plants in your space can give the impression of ‘being away’ while at home, increasing feelings of happiness and gratitude.  

Another study reported that a simple 15-minute plant transplanting task showed a decrease in blood pressure and increase in alpha waves in the brains of the subjects. The findings also suggest that the mere presence of plants indoors can have a demonstrably positive impact on mental well-being. 

A study conducted among hospital patients recovering from surgery showed that those who were in rooms with ornamental plants during their recovery period demonstrated more positive psychological and physical responses, such as lower systolic blood pressure and less pain, anxiety and fatigue  

For additional benefits, incorporating watering, talking, reading or even singing to your plants in your daily routine can have a positive impact. The simple act of caring for your plants anchors you in the present moment, fostering a sense of mindfulness and gratitude.  

The pros of plants 

Plants give us oxygen for the lungs, food for the soul and medicine for the mind. ResearchGate produced a summary of publications that showed studies regarding the emotional and mental-health benefits of plants. Which would you like to hear first -the good news or the great news?  

The scientific consensus is that being around greenery reduces mental fatigue, the likelihood of depression and the effects of dementia, while improving cognitive functioning, happiness/life satisfaction, memory retention, creativity and self-esteem. 

Taiwan’s National Chin-Yi University of Technology looked into the effects of plants on students’ psychology, physiology and behaviour. Researchers found that when indoor plants were present, students exhibited higher academic achievement and better performance in various cognitive tasks. 

The takeaway? Plants can be life-changing.  

The best plants for well-being  

Choose specifically nurturing plants for a healthier mind, body, spirit and space! This list is also perfect for those who prefer low-maintenance greenery.  

► Peace Lily – living up to its name, it reduces stress and anxiety and, therefore, improves productivity and focus.  

► Spider Plant – despite its scary name, it also reduces stress and anxiety.  

► Pothos (Devil’s Vine) – works well to purify the air, which helps to promote relaxation and respiratory health.  

► Snake Plant – filters indoor air and boosts mental health.  

► Sword Fern – also filters indoor air pollutants, which leads to better respiratory health.  

► Rubber Plant – filters all kinds of indoor toxins.  

► English Ivy – helps to encourage better sleep. 

 ► Bamboo Palm – eliminates harmful toxins and enhances mood (helps you breathe better and soothes anxiety).  

► Dragon Tree/Corn Plant -reduces stress, anxiety and headaches.  

► Delicious Monster – removes pollutants and maintains healthy humidity levels; induces feelings of calm.  

► Gerbera/Barberton Daisy -boosts mood, relieves stress and enhances concentration.  

► Succulents – purify the air, which reduces stress levels and improves focus.  

► Chinese Evergreen – a natural stress buster.  

► Fiddleleaf Fig – elevates mood; boosts humidity (good for your skin and respiratory health).  

► Orchid – a natural mood enhancer, plus releases oxygen after dark, reducing anxiety and insomnia.  

► Jade Plant – an air freshener.  

► Weeping Fig – reduces indoor toxins.  

► Prayer Plant – purifies the air.