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Interesting Sleeping Tip

author avatar Dr. Eric Berg 08/31/2023

A good night’s sleep is essential for good health, but so many of us struggle to get enough shut-eye. We toss, we turn, and we stare at the ceiling, willing ourselves to fall asleep.

It can be frustrating. You may have tried things like cutting back on caffeine, or even sleep medication. But, did you know that bringing a few plants for better sleep into your bedroom can make a big difference?

In fact, some say choosing the right plants is a total game changer. Just like humans, plants also need oxygen to survive. While we exhale carbon dioxide as a waste product of respiration, plants actually use it.

In return, they release oxygen, effectively filtering the air, making it a bit cleaner for us.

The Benefits Of Plants for Better Sleep

There are quite a few benefits of having plants in your home - even in your bedroom. Here are just a few to consider:

They Help to Clean the Air

Plants take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen as part of their respiratory cycle. However certain houseplants, like the ZZ plant, can also clean other harmful toxins from the air.

I’m talking about volatile organic compounds, or VOCs for short. VOCs are emitted as gases from many common household products.

These products include paint, cleaning supplies, and furniture. Exposure to some can cause headaches, allergies, and even more serious health conditions over time.

Some common houseplants that have been proven effective at filtering these toxins from the air include English Ivy, peace lilies, and snake plants.

Plants Can Help Reduce Stress and Anxiety

Research has shown that exposure to nature and greenery can have a calming and relaxing effect.

A small 2015 study observing the physiological responses of 24 participants found that interacting with indoor plants could reduce both psychological and physiological stress. This stress reduction is achieved by suppressing sympathetic nervous system activity.

So, being around plants may help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, which can lead to a better night’s sleep.

They Can Help Improve Your Mood

Along with relieving anxiety, caring for plants has also been shown to help elevate mood. Studies show they improve self-esteem and promote feelings of well-being. This is likely because of their ability to provide us with a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

Not only that, but the vibrant green color of many plants is thought to have mood-boosting effects, contributing to an overall sense of peace and tranquility in a room. This makes a great choice if you're looking to induce sleep.

Man sleeping

Best Plants for Better Sleep

Choosing the right plants for your bedroom can transform it into a peaceful sanctuary. But, before you head out to the nearest nursery, I want to point out that you’ll want to avoid those that require a lot of light or water.

These guys aren’t exactly low maintenance, and because bedrooms tend to be on the darker side, it can make caring for these high-maintenance plants a little tricky.

Below, I will discuss three of my favorite plants for better sleep: the snake plant, the peace lily, and devil’s ivy, all of which thrive in low light conditions, are super easy to care for, and boast impressive air-purifying capabilities. They are a great plant to have around.

Snake Plant

These are the holy grail of indoor plants when it comes to purifying your air, because, unlike most plants, the snake plant performs most of its oxygen exchange at night. Remember when I mentioned those harmful toxins, VOCs?

Well, the snake plant removes toxins like formaldehyde, xylene, toluene, benzene, and trichloroethylene from the air.

Snake plants, (also referred to as "mother-in-law's tongue") grow best in dry conditions, so watering this guy every couple of weeks should suffice, especially in the winter. Want more in-depth info about caring for snake plants?

Peace Lily

Peace lilies are famous for their gorgeous white flowers and impressive air-purifying capabilities.

They do best in shady areas and even produce more flowers in low light, so placing this beautiful flower on your bedside table can help detox your bedroom, leaving you with cleaner, fresher air for a more peaceful night’s rest.

These are an easy choice for any bedroom plant.

Devil’s Ivy

If you’re new to caring for houseplants and tend to kill everything, Devil’s Ivy might just be your saving grace. These guys thrive on neglect and literally look better when they're slightly thirsty.

These impressive plants have even been known to withstand temperatures as low as 40°F. The cascading stems are absolutely beautiful hanging from a shelf or left to grow wild in your bedroom.

And if the thought of improving your air quality isn't enough to convince you to go out and grab one for your bedroom, their air-purifying capabilities definitely should.

Similar to the peace lily, English Ivy (Devil's Ivy) also has the ability to filter VOCs like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. So, by adding just a few to your bedroom, you'll be well on your way to a healthier and more restful night's sleep.

Other Popular Options

Though the snake plant, peace lily, and devil’s ivy are considered to be the best plants for a good night's sleep, they’re not the only ones. Check out this list of some of the other superstars. All of these are a great choice.

FAQs about Plants for Better Sleep

What is the best plant for sleep?

There is really no right or wrong answer here, but my personal favorite for achieving quality sleep is the snake plant. I particularly like that they thrive on neglect, can tolerate low-light conditions, and clean the air.

Plus, I just like their funky, modern vibe. They make a great choice.

Do plants improve sleep quality?

While they won’t solve serious sleep problems like insomnia, they may help contribute to a more peaceful and restful sleep by increasing the oxygen in the air while you sleep. This is especially true if your sleep issues stem from poor air quality.

They can also work by promoting a sense of calm and relaxation, further enhancing the quality of your sleep. Some believe that they can even help lower your heart rate. This will help you fall asleep faster and easier.

Which plant makes you sleepy?

Valerian is an herb with a long history of being used as a natural sleep aid because its roots contain a chemical compound that may help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

But keep in mind that placing it in your room won't have the same effect as taking it in supplement form. You could try placing it near your bed base.

What is the best plant to have in a bedroom?

While it’s true that any plant can freshen up a drab corner, some claim that plants like lavender can be a great addition to your room due to their relaxing, calming effects on the brain.

But honestly? The best plants to put in your bedroom are the ones you find aesthetically pleasing because caring for something you actually enjoy is going to motivate you to keep it alive.

Plants like the Chinese Evergreen are known for their long-lasting blooms, while others such as the plant boast trailing stems. If you want a pop of color in your bedroom, you could try adding a plant with green heart-shaped leaves.

You will not want to bring any outdoor plants inside, especially Christmas Trees.

Women changing her pillowcase

Botanical Bliss

​In the quest for better sleep, incorporating plants into your bedtime routine can be a game changer. Botanical bliss isn't just about herbal teas or soothing scents; it's about creating an environment that fosters relaxation and tranquility.

One effective tip is sleeping with a pillow between legs, which can help align your spine and reduce pressure on your hips, promoting a more restful slumber. Pair this practice with calming plants like lavender or chamomile, known for their soothing properties.

Not only do these plants enhance your sleeping space's aesthetic, but their natural fragrances can create a serene atmosphere conducive to sleep.

Embracing these elements can transform your nightly ritual into a holistic experience, helping you drift into dreamland with ease.

Conclusion

Whether you choose one, two, or all of these amazing plants, remember that adding some greenery to your home - particularly in your bedroom - can significantly improve the air quality while boosting your mood and overall sleep quality, leaving you more well-rested in the morning.

So, if you’re looking for a natural and affordable way to improve your quality of sleep, consider incorporating some of these amazing plants for better sleep.

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