12 Indoor plants that improve health, reduce stress and purify air
2022 meta-analysis
in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health reviewed 42 global studies and concluded that interacting with indoor plants has measurable benefits for mental and physical wellbeing.
From mood-boosting greenery to easy-care herbs, these houseplants can positively impact your everyday health—no green thumb required.
12 Best indoor
plants for health
, air quality and stress relief
1. Peace Lily
Peace lilies (Spathiphyllum) are known for their elegant white blooms and graceful green leaves. These low-light plants prefer moist soil and reward you with blooms that resemble white flags of peace. Peace lilies not only lift the mood but also serve as visual symbols of serenity and purity.
Indoor plants like peace lilies improve psychological comfort and lower anxiety in indoor spaces. Just keep them away from curious pets and toddlers, as their leaves can be mildly toxic.
They're perfect for shaded corners and bedrooms.
2. ZZ Plant
Nicknamed the 'eternity plant' for its hardy nature, the ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is an excellent choice for low-light, low-care environments. It requires minimal water and thrives on neglect, making it perfect for busy lifestyles.
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While its waxy, deep green leaves are visually calming, the plant's presence may also help support better focus and cognitive function in indoor workspaces. Having greenery like the ZZ plant in view can improve productivity and concentration, especially in high-stress environments like offices or remote workstations.
It's a beautiful reminder that resilience and calm can coexist.
3. Elephant Ear Plant
With its large, heart-shaped leaves and dramatic tropical vibe, the elephant ear plant adds instant character to any room.
It needs slightly more attention—warm temperatures and frequent watering—but it rewards with striking foliage that brings a lush, jungle-like feel indoors. This immersive greenery has been linked in studies to lowered blood pressure and reduced anxiety, possibly due to its immersive visual impact.
Keep in mind: the plant can be toxic if ingested, so it's best suited to child- and pet-free zones. Its strong presence also makes it a great focal plant for mindful plant care routines.
4. Spider Plant
The spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is one of the most beginner-friendly houseplants. Known for its arching leaves and 'spiderette' offshoots, it's easy to grow and propagate. Spider plants thrive in low to bright indirect light and tolerate occasional neglect. According to plant research, spider plants can help ease indoor stress and may even have a modest role in air purification. Their vibrant growth and playful appearance can uplift mood and offer a sense of achievement for novice plant owners.
They're ideal for bedrooms, kitchens, or offices where a splash of green energy is most welcome.
5. Snake Plant
Often called 'mother-in-law's tongue,' the snake plant (Sansevieria) is a tough, upright plant with bold striped leaves. It's a classic for improving home ambiance and may help regulate indoor humidity. This plant thrives in nearly all light conditions and requires infrequent watering. Some studies suggest that snake plants may improve indoor air quality in sealed environments.
Its structured shape brings a calm, grounded energy to modern interiors, making it popular for both feng shui and minimalist homes.
Snake plants are especially good for bedrooms, thanks to their subtle oxygen release at night.
6. Succulents and Cacti
Succulents and cacti are a dream for anyone who wants greenery without the fuss. These hardy plants store water in their thick leaves and only need occasional sunlight and minimal watering. Their sculptural shapes bring aesthetic charm, while aloe vera, a type of succulent, offers medicinal benefits such as soothing burns and skin irritation.
Caring for succulents has also been linked to mindfulness and reduced anxiety.
Place them on windowsills or desks to brighten the mood and stay connected to nature in urban or indoor settings. Just don't overwater—they like to be left alone.
7. Philodendron
Philodendrons are low-maintenance plants known for their vibrant, heart-shaped leaves and ability to adapt to indoor spaces. They grow best in indirect light and average room temperatures, making them ideal for beginners.
Aside from their visual appeal, philodendrons contribute to improved indoor humidity and air circulation, which may help reduce fatigue and dry skin. Their presence can create a soothing, natural aesthetic that enhances emotional calm.
Whether trailing from a bookshelf or planted on a desk, this plant effortlessly blends beauty and wellbeing, offering mental relief through biophilic design—a connection to nature that research shows can reduce psychological stress.
8. Rubber Plant
The rubber plant (Ficus elastica) is a striking indoor tree that brings height and glossy green leaves into your home. It thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and only needs moderate watering. Rubber plants are favoured in feng shui for attracting abundance and reducing negative energy. The llarger leafy plants like rubber trees may also support stress reduction and mental clarity. While they're visually dramatic and satisfying to care for, remember they're toxic to pets if chewed.
Still, they make fantastic indoor statement pieces with health-promoting side effects.
9. Ferns
Ferns are classic indoor greenery, known for their delicate fronds and lush, forest-like feel. Popular types like the Boston fern thrive in humid environments and need regular watering to keep their soil moist. Ferns not only soften interiors but have also been found to contribute to humidity regulation, especially in dry environments.
This can be helpful for respiratory health and skin hydration. Hanging a fern in your bathroom or placing one in a bright, steamy kitchen creates a fresh, health-enhancing vibe.
They're also great for people who enjoy a more interactive plant care experience.
10. Pothos
Pothos, also known as devil's ivy, is a fast-growing vine with heart-shaped leaves in shades of green or variegated yellow. It thrives in almost any light (except full sun) and tolerates infrequent watering.
Pothos is the quintessential mood-booster—lush, drapey, and visually comforting. By looking at green foliage like pothos can help lower anxiety and support attention restoration. It's easy to propagate, making it a satisfying choice for people who want to expand their indoor jungle.
Hang it from shelves, let it trail from planters, or wrap it around trellises for maximum green therapy.
11. English Ivy
English ivy (Hedera helix) is a beautiful, trailing vine that grows well in containers or hanging baskets.
It prefers bright, indirect light and needs regular watering when the soil feels dry. English ivy has been linked to potential air quality benefits in older studies, but more significantly, its greenery offers mental clarity and stress relief in indoor environments. Because of its aesthetic versatility, it's often used in home offices or meditation spaces to support calm and visual focus.
It can also be shaped along trellises or walls, offering a natural, sculptural element indoors.
12. Herbs (Basil, Mint, Lavender)
Potted kitchen herbs not only add flavour to your meals but also support your health. Plants like basil, mint, and lavender are packed with vitamins and antioxidants and have been shown to reduce anxiety and support sleep. The act of growing your own herbs fosters a deeper connection to food and nature, which can enhance overall wellbeing. Lavender, in particular, is praised for its calming scent and potential to reduce blood pressure and heart rate.
These aromatic herbs are perfect for windowsills, offering both beauty and wellness benefits right where you cook and live.
Also Read:
20 Indoor plants that attract wealth, positivity, and good energy into your home
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