Growing plants is not only a hobby, but also a small but meaningful favour you can do for yourself.
If you are looking for some peace in the midst of a constantly stressful life, the solution is not far away: Plants! There is a reason why gardening and houseplants have become so popular on social media in recent years: Taking care of plants is not only aesthetic; it is also a therapy for mental health. The common opinion of many experts, from psychotherapists to social workers, is that plants reduce stress, increase focus, and even increase serotonin levels, the happiness hormone! You can even start with a pot of flowers; the important thing is not how many plants you have, but the bond you establish with them. Spending time with plants ‘grounds’ both your mind and body and brings you into the moment. Imagine how big a difference those tiny green leaves can make in your life… Here are houseplants for mental health…
Pasha sword (Snake plant)
Let’s open our list of houseplants for mental health with a wonderful plant. Pasha sword is both hardy and almost maintenance-free. It doesn’t want sun, you can often forget to water it (which it doesn’t even mind), and it will still stand upright. Its leaves are stiff, long and usually green with yellow or white stripes. It’s not only aesthetically pleasing, it also cleans the air. So visual elegance + fresh breath in one!
Ribbon flower (Spider plant)
This lovely plant gets its name from the long, thin leaves hanging downwards. It grows wonderfully even in humid environments such as the bathroom. It is not coy about light either. It can also live in dim environments. One of the best things about it? It gives tiny babies as it grows. When you cut them and plant them in other pots, you get new plants. You can set up your own mini greenhouse and it is inexpensive!
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera does not need much water, loves the sun but does not scorch. Moreover, when you break the leaves, you have that gel that comes out of it… It is perfect for burns, cuts, skin irritations! It can also be used directly in post-sun skin care. And it cleans the air too! Both decor, natural first aid and ease of care… If you are a beginner but looking for an impressive plant, Aloe Vera is for you.
Pothos (Hall ivy)
For those who love ivy air! A real indoor star with its shiny heart-shaped leaves. You can grow it by hanging it or climbing it on a support. Easy to care for, stylish in appearance, cleans the air. What’s more, it is also very simple to reproduce. Break off a branch, put it in water, let it take root after a few weeks. Just like that!
Lavanta
It relaxes not only your soul but also your home with its fragrance. Lavender grows not only in gardens but also in the sunlit corners of your home. You can dry it and make small pouches, put it in your cupboards or turn your bathroom into a spa. With its calming effect, it helps you sleep and reduces stress. So lavender is almost a natural therapy!
Basil
A plant that appeals to both mind and palate! It loves the sun, but with a little attention, it grows happily on the balcony, in front of the window. While adding freshness to salads, pizzas and pasta, it also improves your mood with its fragrance. It helps you cope with stress thanks to its adaptogens. Did you say mental clarity? Basil comes into play there!
Lemongrass
This beauty from the mint family provides instant refreshment with its light lemon scent. When you rub the leaves with your hand, it smells fragrant. It facilitates the transition to sleep, soothes the stomach, and even relieves anxiety. You can drink lemongrass as tea or dry it and make pouches. Very versatile, very peaceful!
Curly mint
We have come to the end of our list of houseplants for mental health. Easy to grow, great effect! This plant, which can make people happy just with its smell, grows fast and gives plenty of leaves. Even entering the kitchen on a stressful day, plucking a leaf and smelling it makes you feel good. If you wish, make tea, or add it to your meals. Fresh and relaxing.
