Brits experiencing the winter blues are being encouraged to incorporate mood-boosting plants into their home.
Plant experts at GardeningExpress.co.uk have named the houseplants that can reduce stress and support well-being.
The new year can bring long, dark days, cold weather and a post-festive slump leaving many people facing the January blues.
Mood-boosting plants offer a holistic approach to enhancing both mental and physical health. By incorporating them into your living space can help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve overall well-being.
Studies* have shown that nature promotes calm and stillness, with greenery boosting relaxation.
Plants also naturally purify the air, increase oxygen levels, and add humidity. Improving air quality can also help reduce symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and dizziness. They’re also helpful in boosting concentration and enhancing productivity.
Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk said: “During the dark, cold months, it’s common for people’s mood to drop, especially in January when the festive cheer has faded.
“Bringing greenery into your living space is a great way to beat the January blues, offering both physical and mental health benefits.
“Some indoor plants can add humidity to the air and remove harmful toxins which can create a much more relaxing environment and boost your overall mood.
“During the winter our heating systems can often strip the air of moisture and adding plants can be a great way to combat this problem.
“Houseplants look great too and as we all know, being around greenery is proven to help lift our mood so it’s definitely worth incorporating some into your home this winter.”
The experts at GardeningExpress.co.uk have identified seven mood-boosting plants:
1. Peace Lily
Peace lilies are beautiful and elegant plants but besides their aesthetic appeal, they’re also very effective in removing indoor air pollutants. Better air quality has been linked to improved mood and cognitive function. Additionally, breathing fresh air can contribute to improved well-being and reduce stress.
2. Lavender
Lavender is commonly used in aromatherapy because of its distinctive and soothing fragrance which is believed to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety and stress. Adding a Lavender plant to your bedroom can help create a calming ambience for better sleep which is important for improving your mood and energy levels.
3. Spider Plant
Spider Plants are also great air purifiers, removing harmful toxins such as formaldehyde and xylene, and are known for their ability to contribute to a healthier and cleaner environment. Spider Plants are also easy to maintain and require little watering, therefore they’re also good options for those who are new to gardening.
4. English Ivy
English Ivy has been found to reduce mould levels indoors. Mould can have negative effects on your respiratory health, so it might be a good idea to incorporate English Ivy into your living spaces to promote your well-being.
5. Monstera
With its large bright leaves, Monstera is a great option if you want to add a bold green statement to your home. The expansive leaves are effective at absorbing water vapour and balancing humidity levels. This is important for mould prevention.
6. Boston Fern
Boston Ferns are particularly effective at increasing humidity levels in their surroundings. Maintaining optimal humidity levels can have positive effects on respiratory health and overall comfort, potentially contributing to a more pleasant atmosphere.
7. Orchids
Orchids are elegant and exotic plants and their visual beauty is aesthetically pleasing and uplifting. They also bloom all year round, so they’ll bring some brightness into the room even during gloomy winter days. Orchids are also very appreciated in Feng Shui.
