Unmanaged stress has become all too common in the fast-paced modern world. 

With work and personal pressures piling up and the constant “connectedness” of the digital age, many of us find it hard to stay mentally and physically healthy. Adding a few stress-busting plants to your garden or home can provide relief.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal and air-purifying qualities, certain plants have impressive stress-reducing properties, offering a natural and accessible way to create a serene environment. 

Why not add one (or a few!) of these trusty botanical powerhouses to your home to reap their stress-reducing benefits?

Lavender

Loved for its calming aroma, lavender is popular in aromatherapy and relaxation practices. 

Studies have shown that inhaling the scent of lavender can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. 

Enjoy the soothing fragrance of this versatile plant by using essential oils and sachets or simply brushing against its foliage.

Snake plant

Colloquially known as mother-in-law’s tongue, the snake plant is prized for its ability to purify indoor air by removing toxins like formaldehyde and benzene. 

Snake plants’ striking appearance and low maintenance nature make them ideal for busy lifestyles and those seeking a touch of greenery in their homes or offices.

Interestingly, the snake plant is one of the few plants that continues to convert carbon dioxide (CO2) into oxygen (O2) throughout the night.

Peace lily

With its elegant white blooms and glossy foliage, the peace lily is more than just a beautiful plant – it’s a natural stress reliever. 

Research shows peace lilies can help reduce levels of airborne mould spores, making indoor environments healthier and more conducive to relaxation. 

Discover how to take care of your peace lily here.

Aloe vera

You might already know about aloe vera’s healing properties for skin ailments. But did you know that this succulent can also calm indoor spaces? 

It thrives in bright, indirect light and requires minimal watering, making it a low-maintenance addition to any room. As with most other plants, simply tending to the needs of your aloe vera can serve as a therapeutic activity, helping to alleviate stress and promote a sense of tranquility.

Jasmine

Do you love the intoxicating fragrance of jasmine as much as we do?

It should come as no surprise, then, that the scent of jasmine can have a sedative effect, promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality. 

Grown indoors or outdoors, delicate jasmine can create a calming ambiance that soothes the mind and uplifts the spirit. Learn more about how to select the right jasmine for your space.

Spider plant

Valued for its air-purifying qualities and ease of care, the spider plant is an excellent choice if you’re looking to reduce stress levels in your home or office. In a NASA study analysing three common house plants’ ability to remove toxic substances from the air, spider plants came out tops, removing 95% of the toxic substance from a sealed chamber in 24 hours. 

Style this powerhouse air purifier as a hanging plant, or in a standing planter, for a visually interesting addition to your home or office decor.

Rosemary

Widely known as a culinary herb, rosemary also boasts stress-relieving properties that extend beyond the kitchen.

Inhaling rosemary’s scent has been shown to enhance cognitive function and improve mood, making it an excellent choice for promoting relaxation and mental clarity. Grown in your garden or kept in a pot indoors, having easy access to fresh rosemary can provide a natural remedy for stress and fatigue.

Stress relief is a plant away

Incorporating these stress-reducing plants into your living or working environment can have a significant impact on your overall well-being. 

Whether it’s through the calming aroma of lavender, the air-purifying prowess of the snake plant, or the mood-boosting qualities of jasmine, harnessing the power of nature’s greenery can help create a sanctuary of serenity in an otherwise hectic world.

Ready to add some calm to your work or home space? Visit our online store or pay a visit to your local Stodels Garden Centre for a range of plants that will put your stress levels in the green.