5 Unexpected and Fascinating Benefits of House Plants

Aside from aesthetics, turns out there are so many unexpected benefits of house plants.

house plant in home office

5 Unexpected Benefits of Indoor Plants

From succulents to peace lilies and spider plants plus all the potted plants in between, house plants are a beautiful addition to any home or office space.

You probably already know that indoor plants improve air quality and help you breathe more easily.

Science has proven house plants absorb carbon dioxide in the living space they’re placed in.

In fact, both the Peace Lily and Snake Plants are known as an air purifier.

But, there’s also plenty of other benefits you’ll experience when you add a touch of greenery to your home.

Here are a few of the most fascinating advantages of being a “plant parent.”

large house plant in basket next to blue and white winged arm chair

1. House plants can improve your mental health.

Many people say that having plants around them makes them feel better—and the studies would agree!

House plants and depression management are actually linked.

As are stress levels, which have shown to decrease around plants.

Research has shown that being around greenery more is a great way to reduce stress, depression, and anxiety and increase overall happiness.

This makes a lot of sense, since nature is really key for humans to thrive.

However, (especially lately) most people spend all day indoors.

Bring some plant life into your home and your office to experience the psychological benefits of plants.

House plants are especially beneficial in the winter months when many people are experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Turns out, the presence of house plants can help you combat those feelings of sadness on even the coldest and darkest days of the year.

orange roses and a small fern on white kitchen island

2. Enhanced Work and School Performance.

Turns out, no office or work space should be complete without a house plant or two.

Different plants can make such a great addition and the presence of houseplants is about so much more than just decor.

Did you know house plants can actually improve your ability to focus and make you more productive?

In fact, one study done by the University of Exeter in the U.K. shows that the presence of plants can increase productivity by 15%!

The University of Michigan has also discovered that interacting with nature can improve short-term memory and attention span.

So if you’re struggling with a task that requires a lot of critical thinking and concentration it’s a good idea to go find some beautiful plants.

It will serve you well.

sunny family room with large house plant in corner

3. Owning a house plant may give some people a new sense of duty.

The psychological benefits of house plants are plentiful!

Just like with having a pet, caring for a house plant gives you some level of purpose.

Studies have shown this is especially beneficial for people staying at assisted living facilities.

Caring for a plant is a simple way to improve the quality of day-to-day life and increase happiness for these individuals.

simple potted house plant on round white tableCosta Farms Indoor Plant, 12-Inch Tall, White-Natural Planter

4. Faster Recovery from Surgery

If you know someone who’s on the mend from surgery, don’t send them flowers.

Due to the known health benefits of houseplants, a potted plant can do more than just brighten their day.

It can actually help them get back on their feet faster!

The American Society for Horticultural Science discovered that interacting with nature helps patients recover more quickly from abdominal surgery specifically.

Because plants also improve air quality and increase humidity levels, they reduce airborne germs, which provides the patient with cleaner air and ahealthier environment that’s better for recovery.

So not just mental health but one’s physical health can benefit from some live greenery as well!

indoor greenery in a windowed cornerZZ Plants in Jute Pots

5. A Good Night’s Sleep With Better Sleep Quality

If you’ve been struggling with insomnia, indoor plants could be an easy, effective remedy for more rest.

This is especially true for men, according to one 2015 study.

Since sleep is linked to a variety of other factors related to health and wellness, having a house plant around can truly promote overall wellness.

Another one of the surprising benefits of house plants.

Succulent + Cactus Collection, Set of 12

Conclusion

You can experience the joy of nature too when you add a few good quality household plants to your indoor spaces.

Make sure you show your plants some extra love today for all they do for you, even without you realizing it.

Of course, if you suffer from allergies or feel you can’t commit to the care of a real plant, faux plants are absolutely beautiful as well!

And for more even more home and style inspiration check out these other posts by clicking on each title below:

The Best White Exterior House Paint Colors.

How to Grow Big Beautiful Blue Endless Summer Hydrangeas.

The Best Looking Door Knockers.

Front of House and Exterior Lighting Ideas.

A round up of beautiful flower pots and planters perfect for a small patio.

Our Smokeless Backyard Firepit Review

How to Grow Big Beautiful Limelight Hydrangeas

Container plants and garden inspiration.

Our Backyard Fire Pit Review.

SHOP SOME BEAUTIFUL HOUSE PLANTS HERE:

Just a few more things…

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*This post contains affiliate links. This means if you click a link and purchase something, I may get a small commission from it at no cost to you. For more info, please read my disclaimer. I only refer things that I truly love and hope you will too!

Leave a Comment

2 Comments

  1. Lori wrote:

    I noticed you have wishbone bar stools. Can you share the manufacturer? I am having trouble finding black bar height. I did find them from fine mod imports, but am questioning the seat. Once ordered, I can not return.

    Published on 8.19.20 · Reply
    • Sue De Chiara wrote:

      Did you look on Wayfair?

      Published on 8.20.20 · Reply