9 Best Indoor Plants for Better Health

We often think about our health in terms of the food we eat or how much we walk. But I have found that the air we breathe inside our homes matters just as much.

When I brought more greenery into my rooms, the air felt lighter and easier to breathe. It was like my house finally had its own pair of lungs. Here are nine plants that work hard to keep you healthy.

Snake Plant

I often call this the bedroom plant because it works differently than most. While other plants rest at night, the Snake Plant keeps busy by releasing oxygen while you sleep. It is incredibly tough and does not mind if you forget it for a few weeks. It is my top choice for keeping the air fresh without any hard work.

• Releases plenty of oxygen during the night.
• Filters common household toxins from the air.
• Needs very little water to stay healthy and strong.

Peace Lily

The Peace Lily is one of the hardest workers when it comes to cleaning the air. I find its deep green leaves and white flowers very soothing to look at. It is great at removing hidden chemicals from things like paints or cleaners. Having one in the living room makes the whole space feel much purer.

• Helps to reduce mold spores in the air.
• Cleans indoor chemicals like benzene and formaldehyde.
• Droops its leaves to tell you exactly when it is thirsty.

Aloe Vera

Most people know Aloe Vera for treating burns, but it also helps your health just by sitting on a shelf. I keep one in my kitchen because it monitors the air quality. If the air gets too polluted, the leaves can actually develop brown spots. It is a wonderful, living health monitor for your home.

• The gel inside the leaves helps heal small skin cuts.
• It improves the air quality in sunny rooms.
• Very easy to care for since it needs very little water.

Spider Plant

The Spider Plant is a classic for a reason. It is excellent at fighting off carbon monoxide and other common indoor pollutants. I love how it grows quickly and looks so cheerful. It is a very safe and healthy choice if you have pets at home, as it is non-toxic to them.

• Highly effective at removing toxins from the air.
• Safe for households with cats and dogs.
• Produces small babies that you can grow into new plants.

Boston Fern

I like the Boston Fern because it acts like a natural humidifier. If your skin or throat feels dry in the winter, this plant can help by adding moisture back into the air. It looks beautiful in a hanging basket and makes any room feel like a fresh, damp forest. It really helps me breathe better.

• Restores moisture to dry indoor environments.
• Removes common pollutants found in many homes.
• Thrives in humid spots like bathrooms or kitchens.

Areca Palm

If you want to feel like you are in a tropical paradise while staying healthy, the Areca Palm is perfect. It is one of the best plants for removing general toxins from large rooms. I find that its large fronds make a big difference in how fresh a room feels. It is a powerhouse for clean air.

• Acts as a powerful natural air purifier.
• Softens the air by releasing lots of moisture.
• Safe for both children and household pets.

English Ivy

English Ivy is surprisingly good for your health, especially if you struggle with allergies. It is known to reduce the amount of airborne mold in a room. I like to keep it in a spot where it can trail down, as it helps keep the air clean and the walls looking elegant and green.

• Significantly reduces mold particles in the indoor air.
• Helps people who suffer from asthma or allergies.
• Prefers cooler temperatures and medium sunlight.

Rubber Plant

The Rubber Plant has thick, shiny leaves that are very good at absorbing chemicals from the air. Because the leaves are so large, they can take in a lot of pollutants at once. I find it very easy to look after because it does not need a lot of attention to do its job well.

• Large leaves absorb high amounts of indoor toxins.
• Very resistant to common plant pests and diseases.
• Easy to clean by simply wiping the dust off the leaves.

Bamboo Palm

The Bamboo Palm is another great plant for those who want a clean and healthy home. It is especially good at filtering out chemicals that are often found in furniture or carpets. It grows tall and upright, making it a healthy and stylish addition to any corner of your house that needs a boost.

• Excellent at filtering out harsh indoor chemicals.
• Adds a calm and peaceful feeling to the room.
• Likes to stay in a shaded or medium-light spot.

Simple Tips for a Healthy Home

General Advice for Better Air

When you use plants for health, it is important to remember that they are living things. They need a little bit of care so they can keep taking care of you. I have found that keeping them clean is the best way to make sure they work hard to purify your air every day.

• Keep the leaves free of dust so the plant can breathe properly.
• Place several plants in the rooms where you spend the most time.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or pesticides on your indoor plants.