Having plants in your home does more than just improve the aesthetic – many houseplants are known to promote a healthier lifestyle by purifying the air, boosting mood, reducing stress, and even helping with sleep. Here are 12 of the healthiest plants to keep in your house for overall wellness:
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Also known as “Mother-in-Law’s Tongue,” this plant is a powerhouse of air purification. It absorbs toxins like formaldehyde and benzene, and unlike most plants, it releases oxygen at night, making it ideal for bedrooms.
2. Aloe Vera
Famous for its healing gel used in skincare and minor wound treatment, Aloe Vera also purifies the air and requires minimal care. It’s a great natural remedy for burns and skin irritation.
3. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
This hardy plant removes pollutants like carbon monoxide and xylene. It’s non-toxic, making it safe for homes with pets and children, and it thrives in various lighting conditions.
4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
With its elegant white blooms, the peace lily not only beautifies a room but also removes mold spores, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene from the air. It’s known to improve humidity, helping reduce dry skin and respiratory issues.
5. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
A NASA-approved air purifier, English ivy is excellent for reducing airborne fecal particles and mold. It grows well in hanging baskets and can be trained around frames or trellises indoors.
6. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
This tropical-looking plant is great for larger indoor spaces. It adds moisture to the air and filters out benzene and trichloroethylene, improving respiratory health.
7. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
Rubber plants are known for their air-cleaning abilities and their large, glossy leaves. They absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen while filtering toxins, helping to boost indoor air quality.
8. Lavender (Lavandula)
Typically grown outdoors, lavender can thrive indoors with enough sunlight. Its calming scent is well known for reducing stress, anxiety, and even mild insomnia.
9. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
This low-maintenance plant tolerates low light and infrequent watering. It’s excellent for removing airborne toxins and is especially suited for beginners.
10. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
A natural humidifier, the Boston fern adds moisture to dry air, which can be beneficial for skin and respiratory conditions. It also removes toxins like xylene and formaldehyde.
11. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Also known as Devil’s Ivy, pothos is nearly indestructible and great for purifying indoor air. It grows quickly, trailing beautifully from shelves or hanging pots.
12. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
More than a culinary herb, rosemary helps improve concentration, memory, and mood through its fragrant oils. It also has mild antibacterial properties and requires bright light to thrive indoors.
Final Thoughts
Bringing these plants into your home can significantly enhance your health and well-being. From improving air quality to reducing stress and supporting sleep, the benefits are vast. Best of all, many of these plants are easy to care for, making them perfect for beginners and seasoned plant lovers alike.
