War anxiety? Increase your houseplant variety…

It most certainly is a period of heightened stress and anxiety. There are many ways you can mitigate this. Yoga can help, so can group therapy. But what if you could reduce stress, increase your mental and physical well-being, and, in the process, learn something new? This is where horticulture comes to your aid.

Houseplants are not just decorations but your companions and partners. Scientifically, it has been proven that indoor plants have a direct correlation to our well-being. They provide oxygen, absorb harmful chemicals, provide a soothing green background, etc. But what else can they do?

Houseplants have some very particular but useful properties that can be handy during the present unstable conditions that we are passing through. Here are a few ways they can support you:

Anxiety Reducers

Some plants have an inherent ability to produce certain phytochemicals that have a soothing effect on our psyche. Rosemary and peace lilies are such plants. The organic compound found in rosemary, rosmarinic acid, inhibits GABA transaminase (GABA-T), increasing GABA levels, and acts as an antioxidant. Increased GABA levels cause a reduction in anxiety.

Rosemary Plant

CAM Plants

“When the going gets tough, the tough take a nap”- Tom Hodgkinson

A good night’s sleep is as essential as food, shelter, and exercise. And oxygen is one of those ingredients that promote a deep and sound sleep. Increased oxygen reduces stress and promotes focus. Buddha chose to meditate under a banyan tree (Ficus religiosa). It is common knowledge that plants produce oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide when the sun shines. But there is a group of very specific plants that can do this at night. These are the CAM plants (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism Pathway). These have the ability to release oxygen and absorb CO2 when you sleep. Some of them are;

Aloe vera: Apart from being a CAM plant, Aloe vera produces essential oils that can soothe skin and are a natural exfoliant and moisturizer.

Zamioculcas zamiifolia: Also called the eternity plant, Zanzibar Gem, emerald palm, etc., is a low-maintenance evergreen plant which requires very little light to thrive. An useful addition to any household.

Tillandsia species: Air plants, Spanish moss, pineapples all fall in this broad group of plants. They are well adapted to dry environments and require very little care other than the occasional water spray and a bit of trimming. They are excellent oxygen producers.

General Horticultural Practices & Therapy

Soil planting, raking, pruning, trimming, and other horticultural and gardening activities constitute a form of therapy called ‘horticultural therapy’. It is a scientifically proven technique and a treatment regimen to improve mental health and general well-being. Hence, any activity that you do with your houseplants has a positive health benefit. The more, the better. A daily dose of indoor plant work should be a must for a happy and healthy household.

“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” — Audrey Hepburn