Plants and flowers in the home can reduce stress, enhance creativity, bring clarity of thought, and boost your overall mood. We as humans have a deep connection to plants. The term of biophilia was brought about in 1984 to suggest that humans possess an innate tendency to seek connections with nature and other forms of life. Aristotle was one of many to put forward this concept much earlier that could be summarized as “love of life.” Because of this deep attraction to nature and its beauty we find ourselves in a positive mood after a walk on the beach or even just looking out the window of your office.

Have you started to plant azaleas, daffodils, or the yearly vegetable garden? What about your indoor pots? When spring comes we typically go outdoors for planting, but often forget about the benefits of having plants indoors. Here are some plants to consider having throughout the house that will help with your mental and physical health.

Jasmine produces a small white or pink flower that’s smell in known to reduce anxiety and increase alertness and productivity.

Aloe is a great remedy for burns, can be used to create a natural conditioner for your hair, and can even be mixed into your fruit juice for weight loss benefits. But did you know that having it grow on your night stand has sleeping benefits too? It emits its oxygen at night, which helps combat insomnia.

Spider plants are similar to aloe vera plants in that they emit oxygen at night while taking in carbon dioxide. They also filter household airborne toxins like trichloroethylene and benzene and have been proven to remove formaldehyde from the air.

The Peace Lily can also be used as an air filter. The flowers on a peace lily can boost the humidly in the room by 5 percent, which can relieve dry noses and throats and thus cause a more peaceful sleep.

Lavender not only smells wonderful, but can also reduce anxiety and stress, slow heart rate, improve your sleep, and calm restless babies. You may have used it in baths or oils, but owning the plant is more natural and cost effective.

Rosemary comes from the mint family like lavender, but it has a different purpose. The smell of rosemary can increase memory by 75 percent. Its woodsy scent also creates a great air freshener.

So spend time outdoors. Immerse yourself in nature, but remember to bring some of it indoors for its mental and physical benefits.

Mandy Douthit