When we shop for houseplants, the appearance of the plants takes priority over health benefits for most of us. However, there are many plants that look great and have qualities that improve health and wellness as well – here are some:
- Spider plants – these attractive, low-maintenance plants filter the air in your room, removing the formaldehyde released products based on paper, treated wood fibers and plastics, such as paper bags, tissue paper, synthetic fabrics and plywood. They grow well in any soil and they need to be watered only occasionally;
- Lavender – the beautiful purple flowers will fill your entire home with a soothing and calming fragrance and they can be used to prepare teas to reduce stress and to improve sleep;
- Aloe vera – the gel-like substance in the thick, green leaves have great antioxidant properties and can be used in beverages as well as on the skin, applied directly on areas affected by inflammation, on superficial wounds, insect bites or burns;
- English ivy – this climbing plant removes pollutants from the air and prevents the appearance of mold in your rooms. The plant is great for people suffering from asthma or other chronic respiratory tract affections, but none of its parts should be consumed internally because the plant is poisonous.
For more natural methods of health and wellness, talk with professionals at New Spring Integrative Medicine.