I think it’s safe to say, most of us would like better sleep. After all, a good night’s sleep keeps us focused, reduces our stress, and in general puts us in a nicer mood.
Sleep is a core function our bodies need and I can’t think of a more pleasant way to encourage a good night’s sleep than with a few bedroom plants.
As you likely know, during the day plants, through photosynthesis, absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) and release oxygen. At night, however, most plants switch it up, releasing CO2 and absorbing oxygen in a process called respiration.
Luckily, though, that’s not the case for every plant.
Certain plants can take in carbon dioxide during the night as well as during the day, through a specialized type of photosynthesis called Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM). This method of photosynthesis evolved in some plants as a way to adapt to arid conditions.
Benefits Of Sleeping With Houseplants
Now you might be thinking, how does that help me? Well, more oxygen at night helps improve breathing, which in turn helps with deeper sleep. One plus for bedroom plants.
But, it’s not just about oxygen. Mucous membranes of the nose and throat can dry out during the night, leaving a person more susceptible to things like viruses and allergens. Some plants emit water vapor, which keeps the room more humid. This, in turn, helps the nose and throat stay moister.
And let’s not forget about scent.
Certain bedroom plants produce smells that are known to be calming and soothing and encourage better rest and sleep.
Lastly, the foliage and flowers of plants can help reduce background noises. This is especially beneficial if you live near a road or not so quiet area.
So, with all this in mind, let’s take a look at a few bedroom plants that can help increase your zzzs.
9 Bedroom Plants Your Sleep Will Love
1. Lavender
If you like the idea of scents wafting through your room at night, then lavender is definitely a bedroom plant you should consider. Lavender has a wonderful scent and is one of my favorites. It’s been shown to reduce both blood pressure and heart rate, and induce feelings of calm.
Although usually an outside plant, it is possible to grow lavender indoors in a pot. Choose a variety that’s suited for indoors and make sure it has access to lots of direct sunlight. Water it sparingly, letting it dry out in between. Don’t let it become wilted though.
2. Jasmine
Studies show the scent of jasmine has the ability to soothe, relieve anxiety and promote sleep. Again, this is a perennial plant usually grown outdoors, but certain varieties can be grown as houseplants. Keep it in a partially sunny spot with good air circulation. The soil should be well-draining and moist, but not soggy.
3. Valerian
Perhaps you’ve heard of valerian tea, known for its sleep-inducing qualities, but did you know the valerian plant’s small, fragrant flowers may also help you get a few zzzs? Like most herbs, this guy will need well-draining soil, a sunny spot, and regular watering.
4. Snake plant
Also known as ‘mother-in-law’s tongue’, the snake plant is a natural air purifier. Not only does it give off oxygen at night, but it also helps remove harmful chemicals such as benzene and formaldehyde from your home’s atmosphere. Double bonus!
And these guys are easy-care, low-maintenance plants. They’ll tolerate various light conditions but prefer indirect light. Over-watering a snake plant is usually the biggest problem, so let him dry out between each watering.
5. Peace Lilly
This attractive plant not only releases oxygen at night but can also increase a room’s humidity, helping to keep your mucus membranes from drying out. Peace lilies will tolerate medium to lower light, but brighter, indirect light will produce more flowers. Let the top couple of inches of soil dry out before watering.
One good thing about peace lilies is you know when they’re thirsty because they’ll droop quite dramatically. But don’t worry. A good dose of water and they’ll perk back up.
6. Aloe Vera
The aloe vera plant is known for its medicinal properties and ability to soothe irritated skin, but it is also a nighttime oxygen producer. This dessert plant needs warm temperatures and loose, fast-draining soil. Keep it in a sunny spot and water deeply, but infrequently, letting the soil dry out several inches before watering again.
7. Areca Palm
This feathery beauty is another great air purifier and nighttime oxygen emitter. The areca palm is also good for sinus sufferers because it increases the air’s humidity. In other words, this gal is a triple whammy! Bright, indirect light and slightly moist soil in the spring and summer, allowing it to dry out a bit more during the winter months, is the key to sustaining your areca palm.
8. Christmas Cactus
With its scalloped leaves and unique flowers, the tropical Christmas cactus can brighten up any bedroom. This is another plant that releases oxygen at night. Place it in bright, indirect sunlight with well-draining soil. Water when the top inch is dry.
9. Bromeliad
With its vibrant flower, there’s no denying a bromeliad is a real tropical beauty. But looks are not the only weapon in this plant’s arsenal. In addition to its splashy coloUr, a bromeliad cleans the air and releases oxygen at night. Place your bromeliad in bright, indirect light with good airflow. Make sure to keep it moist, but not soggy.
A restful night’s sleep is important for all of us, and what better way to turn your bedroom into a peaceful, relaxing haven than to sprinkle it with a few bedroom plants your sleep will love.
And if you found this article on 9 bedroom plants your sleep will love helpful, feel free to share it.
