If you have ever wondered which plants are good for your mental health, you are not alone. There are a variety of herbs and flowers that can help you cope with depression. Here are 5 Plants That Help Your Mental Health; lavender, peppermint, gerbera daisies, and peace lily.
Before going into details about these plants, let’s share the following information with you:
Bobbie Mabe, a horticultural therapist at HopeWay, a mental health treatment facility in Charlotte, says just being around plants can make people feel better. She says gardening and tending to houseplants is a rewarding hobby that not only boosts our physical health but teaches us new skills, encourages self-expression, and provides a sense of fulfillment.
Lavender
Lavender ranks first among the 5 Plants That Help Your Mental Health. Lavender has long been used for its calming effects. It has been associated with stress reduction, sleep, headaches and other benefits.
A 2013 study showed that taking lavender essential oil can help alleviate anxiety. The study also found that it improved sleep, decreased moodiness and increased relaxation.
Although a good number of studies have investigated the effectiveness of lavender as an anti-anxiety treatment, the results have been mixed. Some research suggests that it is not as effective as other more common drugs, while others report success.
Lavender is a safe oil to use. However, some people experience allergic reactions, so you should always be sure to speak with your doctor about the use of lavender before beginning an oral or topical treatment.
In addition, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health recommends that lavender be incorporated into your diet. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve muscle pain and headaches.
Gerbera daisies
Gerbera daisies are a popular cut flower. They are native to Africa, South America and Asia. Besides their cheerful blooms, they also offer many health benefits.
When you choose gerberas for your home, be sure to place them in a sunny, airy, cool location. The best way to make this work is to have a south-facing window that is shielded from midday sunlight. If this is not an option, consider having a cool greenhouse to help protect your plant during the colder months.
Gerberas can be grown indoors and outdoors. Indoors, you’ll want to keep the plant in a moderately humid area, but it can survive in most homes. A good soil mix for gerberas is sandy.
Gerberas are generally hardy, but they can suffer damage from light frosts. Some cultivars can withstand light frosts down to 28 degrees Fahrenheit.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus plants help mental health by promoting relaxation and helping to improve mood. The plant is an effective anti-inflammatory and has a variety of medicinal uses. Some of the most common uses of the eucalyptus plant include respiratory afflictions, muscle pain, inflammation, anxiety and headaches.
In the past, the eucalyptus plant has been used for wound healing and as an antiseptic. Modern studies have proven its antimicrobial action and anti-inflammatory properties. However, there are many concerns regarding eucalyptus’ potential toxic effects on the body.
The eucalyptus plant can be grown indoors and outdoors. It can also be made into oil and applied topically to the skin. As an essential oil, it has a pleasant aroma that can be inhaled to relieve respiratory ailments.
Eucalyptus plants can help improve mental health by increasing the circulation of blood to the brain. This increase in blood flow flushes out toxins and inflammation. A better supply of oxygen to the brain can make you feel more relaxed and energized.
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Peppermint
The mint family includes several flowering and herbal plants that can be used to promote a healthy mental state. Peppermint is one of these. It has been found to reduce stress and improve memory.
This plant has a cooling, aromatic, and minty aroma that has been reported to ease anxiety and help the mind become relaxed. Other studies have shown it to increase focus, enhance concentration, and improve memory. Similarly, it may also decrease fatigue, nausea, and headaches.
Various studies have indicated that peppermint can also reduce the symptoms of allergies. Its active ingredient, menthol, helps to relax muscles and boost blood circulation. In addition, it can clear congestion and soothe sore throats. Taking a peppermint oil supplement can also help relieve the discomfort of menstrual problems.
Peace Lily
Peace lily plants help mental health by promoting restful sleep and enhancing relaxation. They also eliminate a variety of air pollutants and odors.
The peace lily is an ideal houseplant for people who live in humid regions. It absorbs excess moisture and reduces mildew growth. These benefits can be particularly helpful in a bedroom.
Several studies have shown that exposure to indoor flower plants may help reduce symptoms of stress. In addition, the pleasant smells of many plants may also be helpful.
For instance, lavender promotes a sense of peace and helps reduce anxiety. Some studies have even shown that a houseplant can improve the quality of sleep.
The oxalate crystals found in the sap of the peace lily are toxic. Oxalate poisoning can lead to a host of health problems, including itchy throats, diarrhea, and headaches.
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