Indoor plants are a great addition to many modern house plans as not only do they create an aesthetically beautiful place but they also have numerous benefits for your health and wellbeing.

Having in mind that a great percentage of people spend the majority of their time indoors, it’s important to bring a piece of nature to your daily surroundings. Scientific studies have shown that houseplants can have a positive effect on your mental wellbeing and your physical state. Plants can help boost your mood, concentration and productivity levels as well as act as a stress reliever. Most plants also have the ability to purify the indoor air, give a nice smell to the place and bring tranquillity and calmness to the environment.

Still not convinced why you should add a few little (or maybe not so little) green beauties around the house? Take a quick read through some of their most significant benefits.

Improve air quality

Through the process of photosynthesis, plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen into the atmosphere which is very beneficial for humans. This makes the air more pure and removes harmful toxins and dust. Plants can also increase humidity by releasing moisture. This could be vitally important especially for the winter months when the air conditioners make the air dry.

Although photosynthesis in most plants happens during the day, some plants like orchids or the snake plant absorb carbon dioxide at night which makes them a perfect choice for your bedroom.

Reduce stress and anxiety

You often hear the advice – “Go and take a walk in the park after a hard day’s work.” It’s nothing surprising by these words as the greenery and Zen-like feeling brings calmness to the mind and body and reduces the production of cortisol which is the stress hormone.

Evidence shows that employees working in offices with more greenery are more productive and are prone to taking less sick leaves. Additionally, statistics present faster recovery rates for patients surrounded by plants and flowers.

Enhance well-being

Indoor gardening has a therapeutic effect on the body and mind and gives you a rewarding feeling knowing that you are taking care of a living thing. Watching your plants grow and flourish as a result of the love and care you give them,brings joy to your soul. Being surrounded by plants never makes you feel alone and can remove any depressive thoughts that might come to you. Digging your hands into the soil can be a messy task but it has some healing properties so don’t be afraid and indulge into it.

Pleasant for the eyes

Even if you are not a big fan of plants, no one can object to the beauty and joy they bring to a place. With their wide range of green shades and huge variety of leaf sizes and shapes, there is something for everyone’s taste. Adding a few small cactuses to your TV unit shelves or some big ferns next to your living room door, whatever you choose, will surely bring life and personality to your interior space.

Boost productivity and concentration

Some studies have shown that working or studying in an environment surrounded by plants can have a positive effect on your concentration and productivity levels. People tend to feel more calm, tranquil and less stressed in the presence of plants. Additionally statistics show that employees who work in the ambience of plants and aesthetic lights are more focused on their work.

Relief for your allergies

Interior spaces where plants and flowers are present tend to have less dust and mould than places without plants. Plant leaves function as natural air filters which trap allergens and other airborne pieces. This process helps for the dust to be lifted from the air. Houseplants with bigger leaves such as the Chinese evergreens are perfect for the job. Also plants with textured leaves such as the violet are great dust catchers. Please keep in mind that you should avoid plants with pollen or spores as that might have the opposite effect and worsen your allergy.

Conclusion

Next time you are doubtful whether to purchase that beautiful orchid you saw in the window of your local flower shop, don’t think twice. Bring it to your home or office and it will only make the place more beautiful and pleasant to be around. Indulge in the nurturing process and you will feel a lot more calm, relaxed and happy to see your plant growing and blooming.

Although the benefits are many, you should be careful and choose your house plants well as some could be toxic for children or pets. Also don’t forget that some plants could aggravate asthma or allergy symptoms so have that in mind too.

Surround yourself with some beautiful greenery and your days will be filled with happiness!