Plants That Have Mental Health Benefits

There are numerous benefits of plants that can improve your mental health. Having a houseplant or a few plants around your home can do wonders for your mind and body. It can also be beneficial for those who suffer from anxiety. However, many people are unaware of how much of an impact plants can have on their mental health. Luckily, there are a few common plants that have been proven to be helpful for those who suffer from anxiety. These include Aloe vera, Peppermint, Lavender, and Mindfulness.

Lavender

Lavender has been used as a calming agent, pain reliever, and sleep aid. It is also used for other ailments such as acne, cancer, and wound healing.

Anxiety is a common health concern and can have negative effects on your mental and physical well-being. Lavandula has been studied as a potential treatment for anxiety, and may be useful in treating mild to moderate depression.

A study on the anxiolytic properties of lavender demonstrated that it could reduce heart rate variability (HRV). HRV is an indicator of anxiety.

The chemical component that gives lavender its anxiolytic effect is linalool. This compound works by affecting the brain without impairing movement.

In addition to promoting relaxation, lavender may also help with headaches. Studies have shown that lavender oil helps decrease headache spreading.

Studies have also shown that lavender aromatherapy improves sleep quality. For example, a 2006 study found that lavender aromatherapy helped college women with insomnia sleep better.

Lavender has a pleasant smell and can be found in tea, essential oil, and capsule form. However, it is not approved by the FDA for medical use. You should consult with your doctor before trying lavender or any other supplement.

Although there are no studies showing that lavender has long term benefits, it is considered to be safe. Other studies have suggested that it may have neuroprotective effects against strokes.

Some scientists believe that lavender has beneficial properties for a number of disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, psoriasis, and migraine. Further research is needed to determine how effective lavender is for these conditions.

While lavender is not approved as a medical treatment, its many benefits should be taken into consideration when considering alternative options.

Peppermint

Plants can have a positive impact on the mental health of humans. They can reduce stress and alleviate depression. In some cases, they can even trigger certain parts of the brain. The National Institute of Health has conducted studies to study the effects of plants on the human body.

Peppermint has been used for centuries to treat digestive issues. Interestingly, peppermint oil has been shown to reduce nausea and vomiting in chemotherapy patients.

Peppermint can also help you deal with anxiety and stress. Research has shown that peppermint helps you focus and relax. It has been proven to increase alertness and enhance memory.

Studies have also found that peppermint can reduce stomach spasms and irritable bowel syndrome. Moreover, it can also help you with headaches. However, avoid drinking peppermint tea if you have heartburn or any other allergy.

Peppermint is an antioxidant, which helps to combat the harmful free radicals in the body. This can lower the risk of developing degenerative diseases. Moreover, it can promote overall cellular health and prevent premature aging.

Peppermint also contains menthol, which provides its cooling and aromatic qualities. Menthol can be inhaled as steam or applied on the skin for pain or inflammation.

Peppermint tea is caffeine-free and can help you get the energy you need. You can also drink peppermint essential oil, which can be inhaled or taken in capsule form.

Peppermint tea can also provide a cooling effect, which can soothe a cold. It can also help you sleep. So you can wake up refreshed and ready for the day.

Plants can also offer a wide array of mental health benefits. Aside from their relaxing properties, they can also boost your concentration.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a plant that can help fight stress and depression. Aside from its beneficial effects on skin, aloe also has anti-inflammatory properties. It can also act as an analgesic.

Since ancient times, aloe has been used for digestive problems, inflammation, and wounds. It is commonly found in cosmetic products. There are even aloe creams and gels for psoriasis. The gel can seal in moisture and soften the skin.

Aloe is considered safe for most people in its different forms. However, it is important to consult with your doctor before taking any supplement. As with any medication, you should always read the label. Also, don’t take more than the recommended amount.

In fact, high doses of aloe can be toxic. Taking too much can cause cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. Moreover, it may interfere with the absorption of drugs and medicines. So, if you are pregnant or have certain medical conditions, it is best to consult your physician before using aloe.

While there are some benefits to aloe, it is important to avoid overdosing. For this reason, it is best to start small. Consuming just one teaspoon per day is a good starting point. If you are looking for a more potent form, you can find aloe extracts. These are available in powder or juice form.

Aloe has many antioxidants, including vitamin E. Vitamin E helps fight inflammation and free radicals. And, it protects against cardiovascular diseases. It also helps keep your vision healthy.

Additionally, aloe contains enzymes that break down sugars and fats. This makes it easier for you to digest certain foods. Some research suggests that these enzymes can also be helpful in providing relief from heartburn and heartburn-related symptoms.

Houseplants

Houseplants offer numerous psychological health benefits. These include reduced stress, improved air quality, and increased attention. Having plants around can also boost productivity, reduce sick leave, and improve mental resilience.

One study from University of Technology, Sydney showed that houseplants have a positive effect on mood and wellbeing. They reduced anxiety, anger, and depression.

Another study from the Journal of Physiological Anthropology found that participants felt more relaxed and less anxious when they were planting a plant. Those who did not have plants in their home felt more stressed and were more likely to experience negative emotions more often.

Researchers also found that having houseplants at work had positive effects on employees’ performance. Employees were more productive and reported greater job satisfaction. Compared to those who did not have plants, employees with houseplants reported higher levels of job satisfaction, better cognitive performance, and a higher rate of workplace commitment.

The common snake plant is a great houseplant for alleviating headaches. It is durable, requires little watering, and can be easily maintained.

English Ivy is a popular plant that helps to clear the air of toxins. It can also reduce coughs and help to relax airways. This plant is listed on the NASA list of the top 10 air purifying plants.

Another study from the University of Technology, Sydney found that people with houseplants had lower stress levels and lower levels of fatigue. Plants can reduce stress by interrupting the stress cycle. A bacterium in the soil triggers the release of serotonin, a hormone that lowers anxiety and promotes relaxation.

In addition to the physical and mental health benefits of having plants, houseplants can also provide a sense of purpose. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, having a plant can bring meaning to your life.

Mindfulness

Plants have a number of health benefits. They can relieve stress, improve air quality, and even increase memory retention. In fact, there are even pills on the market that boast of increasing brain function.

A study conducted by the National Institute of Health showed that spending time in nature has a positive effect on the mind. Specifically, the study found that a green and pleasant garden reduces the amount of mental stress. Adding plants to a hectic workday can also improve your mood.

While a plant can be expensive, they are a worthwhile investment. Not only do they beautify a space, but the act of tending them is an excellent mindfulness practice. During a busy day, it can be easy to forget to enjoy the moment. But a plant can remind you that you need to take a break.

One of the most useful and impressive properties of plants is their ability to purify the air in your home. This is particularly important during the colder months when the air is dry. Using a humidifier can be a big help.

It is also possible to raise a plant in your home. Taking the time to nurture your new acquisition can give you a sense of accomplishment. Plus, the act of nurturing a plant can improve your mind and body.

Whether you live in an urban or rural setting, you can enjoy the benefits of plants. They have been shown to improve air quality, lower blood pressure, and even boost memory recall. There are many different types of plants, including those for sale. You may have to do some research to find the best plants for your space.