We love plants, and not just because they're lovely to look at - they can actually help us live our best lives too. How? We're glad you asked.
Plants are nice to look at, that’s a fact. Whether you’re partial to a flowering peace lily or a towering ficus, almost all of us can agree that plants are a visually pleasing interior aesthetic. But did you know that having plants in your living space can also help boost your mood, alleviate allergy symptoms and even improve productivity?
That’s right. Even the most common houseplant species can work wonders for our wellbeing. But which plants are best to pot? We’ve done the research and found the greatest green guys in the garden bed.
1. The allergy friendly snake plant
There are over 70 different species of snake plant and all of them have one thing in common – they’re great for those of us with allergies. Why? Snake plants actually add moisture to the air and release a bunch more oxygen into the room, making it extra easy to breathe.
Grow it: Arguably the best thing about snake plants is that they’re exceptionally hard to kill. These hardy fellas require very little care, can survive in low light areas and are very rarely plagued by pests. New to plant care? Adopt a snake plant.
2. The chemical-clearing peace lily
Not only does the pretty peace lily blossom regularly (fun fact: it’s one of the few that can bloom indoors), it also removes benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene chemicals from the air. How’s that for a productive plant?!
Grow it: If you’re keen on clean air, just make sure you place your lily in filtered, indirect light – near a window is best – and be careful not to overwater. Bonus: your lily will actually tell you when it’s thirsty by drooping its leaves.
3. The stress-reducing lavender plant
Nothing beats the sweet scent of lavender, but did you know that this flowering purple plant is also scientifically proven to reduce stress and promote a more peaceful sleep? Yep, lavender is shown to help with a whole host of anxiety symptoms.
Grow it: Lavender needs a lot of light and heavy watering, so be sure to place it near a window and water regularly. Once flowering, try placing a bunch beneath your pillow for a dreamy sleep.
4. The antioxidant-rich aloe vera plant
This plant is medicine, literally. Not only does it remove formaldehyde from the air but the gel inside its succulent leaves can actually help heal sunburn and ease skin conditions like psoriasis. The reason aloe vera is so great for the skin is because it’s super high in good antioxidants.
Grow it: To grow aloe vera best, make sure it’s placed in bright, indirect sunlight and allow its soil to dry between waterings. It’s a succulent, after all.
5. The lucky bamboo plant
Originally from south-east Asia, bamboo is not only one of the easiest houseplants to care for but it’s also considered lucky. Scientifically proven to be an effective natural air purifier, many people believe that bamboo also brings positive energy, safety for home owners and good fortune to the entire household.
Grow it: This is a tropical water lily-type plant that is best grown in spots where there is low and indirect sunlight.
