This article covers the following areas –
- How Do Indoor Plants Boost Energy Levels?
- The Best Indoor Plants for Boosting Energy Levels
- How to Cultivate Energy and Well-being Through Indoor Plants
- Additional Tips to Maximize the Energy-Boosting Benefits of Indoor Plants
- In Conclusion
Ever since I brought my first indoor plant into my home, I’ve noticed a significant shift in my overall energy levels and mood. I’ve always appreciated the aesthetic beauty of plants, but I was pleasantly surprised to learn about their air-purifying abilities and the overall wellness benefits they can bring to a space.
In my journey of transforming my home into a green paradise, I have identified a few indoor plants that have helped increase my energy levels. So, let’s dive in and explore these “green superheroes.”
Indoor plants like Spider Plant, English Ivy, and Snake Plant purify the air, enhance oxygen levels and mood, and reduce stress, boosting energy levels. Caring for plants is therapeutic, and strategic placement can maximize benefits. Variety in indoor plants ensures better air purification.
In the following sections, we’ll explore specific indoor plants known for boosting energy, the science behind how they uplift our mood and vitality, and tips on plant care and placement. There’s a wealth of knowledge to uncover, so keep reading as we delve into this green and lively world of indoor gardening.
How Do Indoor Plants Boost Energy Levels?
Indoor plants are a delight to the eyes, but they also profoundly enhance our physical well-being and mental health, leading to an overall boost in our energy levels. Their role goes well beyond photosynthesis—the process by which they absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen.
To truly grasp how indoor plants invigorate our living spaces, it is essential to delve a bit deeper into their benefits as natural air purifiers and mood boosters.
#1 Being Natural Air Purifiers
Indoor plants’ function as air purifiers hinges on their capacity to process various pollutants present in the air, a phenomenon extensively studied in the field of phytoremediation. According to a NASA Clean Air Study, indoor plants can remove up to 87% of air toxins in 24 hours. They do this by absorbing these harmful substances through their leaves and roots and then metabolizing them into harmless byproducts.
#2 By Absorbing Carbon Dioxide
During photosynthesis, plants absorb carbon dioxide from the environment and convert it into oxygen. This process significantly contributes to improving indoor air quality, ensuring we have a fresh supply of oxygen to breathe.
#3 By Eliminating Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Apart from carbon dioxide, indoor plants can also absorb a variety of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). These include substances like benzene and formaldehyde, commonly found in paints, cigarettes, and certain cleaning products.
By removing these compounds, plants help reduce the risk of several health issues associated with long-term exposure to VOCs, such as headaches, nausea, and irritation in the eyes, nose, and throat.
#4 By Boosting Mood and Reducing Stress
The presence of indoor plants in our living spaces significantly influences our mental and emotional well-being, subsequently increasing our energy levels. The underlying reasons behind this uplifting effect include the calming influence of nature and the psychological benefits of nurturing a living thing.
#5 Through Biophilia: Our Innate Love for Nature
The Biophilia Hypothesis, proposed by renowned biologist Edward O. Wilson, suggests that humans have an instinctive bond with nature and other forms of life. Surrounding ourselves with indoor plants can satiate this innate desire, leading to feelings of contentment and serenity. This decrease in stress levels can lead to higher productivity and more energy throughout the day.
#6 By Ensuring Active Care and Accomplishment
Taking care of plants necessitates mindfulness and a routine, both of which can have positive psychological effects. The act of nurturing a plant, seeing it grow and thrive under our care, can foster a sense of accomplishment and purpose. This positive reinforcement can reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, subsequently increasing our energy levels and productivity.
The Best Indoor Plants for Boosting Energy Levels
Now that we’ve understood how indoor plants can uplift our energy levels, let’s look at my top picks. These plants are not only gorgeous to look at, but they also have the added advantage of increasing your energy.
1. The Ubiquitous Spider Plant (Chlorophytum Comosum)
With its cascading, variegated leaves, the Spider Plant is a common sight in many homes and offices, and for good reason. This hardy plant is known for its exceptional air-purifying abilities, filtering out common pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene.
Formaldehyde can be found in a wide range of household products, from cleaning supplies to certain types of fabric, while xylene is often present in paints and varnishes. By effectively reducing these pollutants, the Spider Plant aids in enhancing the quality of indoor air and boosting oxygen levels.
2. The Classic English Ivy (Hedera Helix)
With its delicate leaves and climbing growth habit, English Ivy is a timeless choice for bringing nature indoors. Renowned for its capacity to absorb toxins such as benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene, this plant actively contributes to a healthier and more energetic home environment.
The versatility of English Ivy in styling makes it an excellent choice for hanging baskets, tabletops, or trellises, providing you with multiple options to incorporate it into your interior décor.
3. The Nocturnal Snake Plant (Sansevieria Trifasciata)
Often referred to as the Mother-in-law’s Tongue, the Snake Plant is a standout in my list, primarily because of its unique ability to release oxygen at night. This trait, relatively rare among plants, makes it an ideal bedroom companion, contributing to fresher air while you sleep.
Better sleep quality, in turn, means better energy levels throughout the day. Moreover, Snake Plants are exceptionally resilient, requiring minimal care, making them an excellent choice for novice plant owners.
4. The Humidity-Boosting Boston Fern (Nephrolepis Exaltata)
If you live in a dry climate or struggle with dry skin, the Boston Fern could be your new best friend. Renowned for increasing humidity levels, this indoor plant helps maintain a moisture-rich atmosphere that can benefit your skin and respiratory health.
The lush, feathery fronds of Boston Fern also make it an attractive addition to your indoor space, adding to its overall appeal.
5. The Lively Lemon Balm (Melissa Officinalis)
Lemon Balm is another excellent indoor plant known for its mood-boosting properties. The pleasant lemony aroma is refreshing and can help reduce stress and anxiety, leading to an overall increase in energy levels. Lemon Balm is also a beneficial herb that can be used in teas and other culinary delights, adding to its functionality within the home.
6. The Fragrant Lavender (Lavandula)
Lavender is a beloved plant known for its sweet aroma and beautiful purple flowers. The fragrance of lavender has been shown to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Although it’s traditionally an outdoor plant, it can be grown indoors under the right conditions. By helping improve sleep and reduce anxiety, lavender can increase energy levels during the day.
7. The Refreshing Peppermint (Mentha × Piperita)
Peppermint is a potent indoor plant known for its distinctively refreshing scent. The aroma of this plant has been linked to enhanced mood, increased focus, and improved energy levels. Peppermint also requires minimal care and thrives well in indoor settings. Plus, having fresh peppermint leaves at your disposal can be a great addition to your kitchen.
8. The Beneficial Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis Miller)
Aloe Vera is a succulent that’s well-known for its medicinal properties, including healing burns and cuts. Besides these benefits, Aloe Vera is also an excellent air purifier. It helps remove benzene and formaldehyde from the air, which are commonly found in chemical-based cleaners and paints. Aloe Vera contributes to a healthier and more energetic living space by improving air quality.
How to Cultivate Energy and Well-being Through Indoor Plants
Becoming a plant parent equips your living space with air purifiers and introduces a rewarding and energizing hobby into your life. The process of caring for indoor plants — watering, pruning, adjusting their sunlight exposure — often becomes a therapeutic routine, instilling a sense of calm and joy.
As you watch these small bits of nature thrive under your care, you’ll likely notice an uptick in positivity and accomplishment.
It’s essential to keep in mind that each plant is as unique as the person caring for it. Their light requirements, watering frequency, and even their response to temperature changes need careful attention.
By understanding and catering to these needs, you facilitate their growth and reap the benefits in return, improving air quality and increasing energy levels. Embracing indoor plants as part of my lifestyle has drastically changed the energy within my home, infusing it with a new lease of life and vitality.
Additional Tips to Maximize the Energy-Boosting Benefits of Indoor Plants
Choosing the right plants is a significant first step, but to fully harness their energy-boosting potential, there are a few more things to consider. I have gathered some tips along my journey as a plant parent that can help you make the most of your indoor greenery.
(1) Thoughtful Placement Matters
Plants can instill a sense of calm and tranquility in any corner of your home, but strategic placement can enhance their benefits. For instance, the Snake Plant, known for its unique ability to release oxygen at night, is a great choice for bedrooms. In contrast, the kitchen or living room, with typically higher light levels and potential air pollutants, might be better suited for an English Ivy or Spider Plant.
(2) Provide Adequate Care
Indoor plants enrich our lives, but they also rely on us for their needs. Consistent watering, adequate feeding, and ensuring they receive sufficient light are crucial to their well-being. A well-cared-for plant is healthier, more robust, and thus more effective at its air-purifying job and creating an environment conducive to high energy levels.
(3) Embrace Diversity
Just as we appreciate variety in our daily lives, our homes also benefit from a diverse mix of indoor plants. Each species has its unique air-purifying properties and aesthetic appeal. Introducing a variety of plants can lead to more efficient air purification and a visually captivating space that aids in maintaining high energy levels.
In Conclusion
Since introducing a variety of indoor plants into my home, I have experienced an undeniable boost in my energy levels. The improved air quality, the calming presence of nature, and the sheer joy of watching them grow have transformed my living space into a lively, green oasis.
If you’re looking for a natural and pleasing way to increase your energy levels, I can’t recommend indoor plants highly enough. Remember, while every plant brings some benefits, Spider Plants, English Ivy, Snake Plants, and Boston Ferns are my personal favorites for the best energy boost. Happy planting
