9 Therapeutic house plants proven to boost health, happiness & brain power
By Sarah Khan
Reconnecting with nature to “heal within” is not be some lofty, scoff-worthy romantic ideal.
Cormac R. Connell
In fact, researchers are increasingly discovering that simply connecting to nature brought a significant increase in health and happiness, according to a BBC report on a 2017 UK study by the University of Derby and the Wildlife Trusts.
For us city folks, who may not always have the time to head outdoors, houseplants are a great way bring nature indoors. Adding plants at home or in the office is a simple, yet effective way to improve your personal environment – even enhance your concentration at work, boosts happiness and improves your health.
Boosts brain power
Feeling like you could use a brain boost at work lately lately? As it turns out, plants can be a powerful brain stimulant. “Studies show that tasks performed while under the calming influence of nature are performed better and with greater accuracy, yielding a higher quality result,” according to Charlie Hall, Ellison Chair in International Floriculture at Texas A&M University.
“Keeping ornamental plants in the home and in the workplace increases memory retention and concentration,” he adds. “The calming influence of natural environments is conducive to positive work environments by increasing a person’s ability to concentrate on the task at hand.” The presence of roses and rosemary, for instance, are known to improve your concentration and focus – pretty neat, huh?
Creates happiness and positivity
Flowers, in particular, can create a feeling of happiness, by triggering the release of dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin – neurotransmitters that are linked to the parts of the brains linked to emotional bonding, mood stability and reward. According to Hall, “adding flowers to your home or work environment reduces your perceived stress levels and makes you feel more relaxed, secure and happy.”
Improves your relationships
Being surrounded by nature can also strengthen your interpersonal relationships. Hall shares that research has found that those who spend more time around plants tend to enjoy better relationships with people. This is due to the increases in feelings of compassion, a result of exposure to ornamental plants.
Looking for inspiration on which plant or flower to furnish your home or office space with? Take your pick in the gallery above for 9 therapeutic house plants proven that will boost your health, happiness and brain power!