Nowadays, it seems that people are suffering from sleep deficiency more than ever. Modern lifestyles are highly hectic and full of stress, we ended up lacking time, so we reduced the amount of sleep we get every night or we ended having difficulties to fall asleep.
According to the National Sleep Association, between 50 and 70 million US adults suffer from a sleep disorder.
Sadly, lack of sleep has become so common problem, that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently called insufficient sleep a “public health problem.”
Yet, as sleep is crucial for our health,
we should all address this issue and find a suitable way to get a good snooze. Fortunately, there are 12 bedroom plants that will help you sleep better in a completely natural way!
Apart from decorating the place, they can purify the air, help us breathe better, relax us, and even eliminate harmful toxins. NASA dedicated an entire study to the effects of the following 12 plants in the bedroom, and the findings were fascinating!
1. Peace Lily
This beautiful plant cleanses the air from trichloroethylene, formaldehyde, and benzene, and raises the moisture in the room, thus destroying airborne microbes which cause allergies.
Moreover, it soothes an irritated dry nose and dry throat which can lead to sleeping disorders as well.
2. Gerbera Daisies
Gerbera Daisies purify the air as they release oxygen, and help in the case of allergies or apnea.
3. Lavender
Lavender is well known for its relaxing properties. Its pleasant aroma will lower your anxiety, blood pressure, and stress, and it will slow down your heart rate, so you can finally get some zzz’s.
Lavender is a perfect way to calm babies and their mothers too.
4. Golden Pothos
This plant with heart-shaped leaves requires a few hours of sunlight exposure and weekly watering, and it will dramatically improve your sleep.
5. Jasmine
This exotic plant will reduce anxiety, and improve your sleep. Apart from decorating the bedroom, jasmine will also calm your body and prepare it for rest.
6. Snake Plant (Mother-in-Law’s Tongue)
This plant purifies the air, as it absorbs carbon dioxide at night, and fills the bedroom with fresh and clean air, perfect for improved sleep. It will also eliminate household toxins from the air.
7. Bamboo Palm
This exotic plant should be kept in a shady place, and watered regularly. It will ensure that the air in your bedroom is clean and fresh throughout the entire day.
8. Spider Plant
This plant cleanses the air and eliminates 90% of formaldehyde, which is often found in household products. It will also get rid of bad smells and fumes, and it will maintain a normal level of oxygen in the room.
9. Valerian
The soothing properties of this plant have been known for centuries. The Roman philosopher and physician, Galen prescribed Valerian root as a cure for insomnia.
Researchers claim that you can even improve your sleep only by smelling it. Place it by the window, and add several petals to your bedtime bath.
10. English Ivy
English Ivy has been found to treat allergies and asthma, which often lead to sleeping disorders.
The American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology reported that it removed 78% of airborne mold and 94% of airborne feces in 12 hours.
11. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen in the room. Place it by the window, as it needs a lot of sunlight, and enjoy your sleep.
12. Gardenia
Some studies indicate that gardenias can be as effective as Valium when it comes to lowering anxiety and improving sleep quality. Yet, make sure it is not exposed to direct sunlight.
To optimize the effects of these plants, make sure you wipe their leaves at least once a week, so they can filter the air properly. According to NASA’s guidelines, 15-18 air-cleansing plants in an 1800 square foot house will be enough to finally get the much-needed rest.
A better night’s sleep will improve your wellbeing in various ways. You’ll wake up full of energy, you’ll be more focused and alert during the day, and your mood will be dramatically improved!