6 Houseplants That will Improve your Sleep

How do Houseplants Improve Sleep?

Different kinds of houseplants serve different purposes. While some are used purely for aesthetic and decor, others may actually benefit the quality of your sleep. Houseplants are especially helpful for sleep for the following reasons:

• Some plants remove toxins and pollutants from the air
• Some plants improve your mood by promoting feelings of relaxation through fragrance and aromatherapy
• Some plants absorb the carbon dioxide that we exhale in our sleep
• Some plants can produce oxygen at night, which aids in breathing as you sleep

Not all plants can produce oxygen at night, because many plants require sunlight to complete the photosynthesis process. So, which houseplants should you keep in your room for bedtime?

Which Houseplants Improve Sleep?

Aloe Vera

The aloe vera plant has long been used for many health benefits. Namely, it has been used to heal skin conditions and today is most often used to soothe sunburns. In addition to these healing benefits, the aloe vera plant produces oxygen at night which calms the nerves, relaxes you, and improves overall sleep quality.

Areca Palm

Areca palm produces oxygen similarly to the aloe vera. This plant is from tropical climates, so it naturally helps to maintain humidity levels. This helps to promote a comfortable sleeping environment as well.

Jasmine, Gardenia, and Lavender

Jasmine, gardenia, and lavender are three examples of fragrant plants that produce relaxing scents. Studies on aromatherapy have confirmed that certain fragrances assist in relieving anxiety and improving sleep as a result.

Peace Lily

The peace lily is a low maintenance houseplant that purifies the air by absorbing mold spores. “According to a NASA experiment, pollutants like benzene, xylene, carbon monoxide, and formaldehyde are some that a peace lily plant can absorb”. This plant can also remove mildew and absorb mold spores so it is especially beneficial for those who have allergies. Additionally, according to Feng Shui, the peace lily brings positive energy to the sleeping environment.

Snake Plant

The snake plant is another effective air purifier that removes toxins from the air. One study found that the snake plant was especially effective in reducing CO2. It’s an excellent option for new houseplant owners as it can thrive in most environments with little care.

Valerian

The valerian plant has a sweet smell that is linked to faster sleep onset and improved sleep quality. It increases the neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) in the brain which helps you fall asleep faster.

Keeping some of these houseplants in your bedroom will help improve your sleep quality in many ways; purifying the air and releasing relaxing smells to name a few. Overall, plants that help keep the air clean, absorb toxins, have calming scents, and relieve anxiety will have a positive impact on your sleep.

References

https://vitesy.com/blog/nature/improve-your-sleep-...

https://www.dreams.co.uk/sleep-matters-club/11-bed...

https://community.csusm.edu/pluginfile.php/218982/...

https://www.theweek.in/leisure/lifestyle/2020/06/0...

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Efficiency-o...