We all know the benefits of consuming plants, but did you know that filling your home with greenery can also drastically improve your health? Aside for providing dreamy home decor, houseplants have been known to improve concentration and productivity (by up to 15%), reduce stress levels, boost your mood and decontaminate the air in your home, according to the American Forest Organization.
NASA’s Clean Air Study further discovered that certain common indoor plants can even provide a natural way of removing toxic agents from the air. Chemicals like formaldehyde, benzene and trichloroethylene from carpet backing, insulation, paints and solvents can contaminate our homes, pollute our air and reduce our quality of sleep.
Before you jet off to the closest nursery to purchase new plants, here are a few of our favorite helpful houseplants that will keep you and your home feeling healthy and happy.
Snake Plant
Otherwise known as Mother-In-Law’s Tongue, Snake Plant is a frontrunner when selecting greens for your home—and is a great plant for newbies. Its stellar antioxidant powers make it able to absorb excessive amounts of carbon monoxide in the air. This yellow-lined succulent emits great amounts of oxygen and filter the air of toxins such as benzene, which may be present in synthetic fibers, resin, rubber and dyes.. When placed strategically in your home or office, a Snake Plant can also assist in stimulating productivity, lowering stressful or anxious thoughts, elevating your mood and enriching your overall well-being.
English Ivy
English Ivy, also known as Hedera Helix, European Ivy, or simply Ivy, is a common plant seen in a lot of households or growing alongside city buildings… and for good reason. This fast-growing vine boasts many health benefits, particularly for our lungs. Research shows that English Ivy can help relax the airways and reduce coughing, making it is a great choice for those with asthma, bronchitis or other breathing difficulties and is especially helpful for people with allergies. Plus, they look stunning dripping along the shelves in your home.
Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree
Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree is as helpful as it is beautiful. Because of its big, broad leaves, fiddle leaf fig trees are extremely efficient at purifying the air. Native to jungle regions, this plant helps control humidity and is a great choice for regulating temperature in your home or office space. If you collect enough of these beauties in your home, the fan-like leaves make great shade (and a beautiful backdrop) for an outdoor patio or sunny corner by a window.
Spider Plant
The Spider Plant, also known as Airplane Plant, St. Bernard's Lily, Spider Ivy, and Ribbon Plant, is another great choice for new plant owners. This expressive flowering plant is exceptionally resilient and helps battle toxins including xylene, a solvent used in the printing and rubber industries. The Spider Plant is also one of the few houseplants that is non-toxic to animals. They look great hanging in any room of the house (including the shower).
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is an easy-growing plant packed full of health advantages. This sun-loving succulent helps clear a space of formaldehyde and benzene, which may be byproducts of chemical-based cleaners, paints and more. Aloe loves to grow near a sunny kitchen window and is a smart choice for every home. Beyond its good looks and air-clearing abilities, the gel inside aloe leaves can help boost the healing of cuts, soothe burns and even diminish signs of aging.