Plants That Improve Your Home’s Health
Boost Your Home’s Health Inside and Outside with These Amazing Plants
It is plant season and us crazy plant ladies could not be more excited for a new season of plants and flowers to be out! Aside from making us happy, and making things look pretty, I want to help you out by giving you some excuses to use on the hubby when he asks “Why did you get more plants?!”
We all know that adding plants to our homes can make them look more beautiful and inviting. But did you know that certain plants can also improve the health of your home? From purifying the air to boosting your mood (which we all can appreciate a happy spouse), these green companions we love offer a range of benefits. Whether you’re a seasoned plant momma or just getting started, here’s a guide to the best plants to buy that will enhance your home’s health, both inside and out. Plus, we’ve included some delicious recipes to enjoy while you’re nurturing your new plant babies!
Why Choose Plants for Your Home?
Before we dive into the list of must-have plants, let’s explore why incorporating plants into your living space is a great idea. Take notes so you can tell your husband LOL!
- Air Purification: Many house plants are known for their ability to filter toxins from the air, making your home healthier to breathe in.
- Mood Enhancement: Being around plants can reduce stress, improve mood, and increase productivity. Happy spouse, happy house!
- Natural Humidifiers: Plants release moisture into the air, helping to maintain optimal humidity levels in your home.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Plants add a touch of nature and beauty to any space, making your home more inviting and serene.
- Get my FREE list of resources to help turn our house into a home HERE
Best Indoor Plants for a Healthier Home
1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are excellent air purifiers, known for removing toxins like formaldehyde and xylene from the air. They are also incredibly easy to care for, making them perfect for beginners.
- Light: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Keep the soil slightly moist
2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, the snake plant is a powerhouse when it comes to air purification. It can remove toxins such as benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and xylene.
- Light: Low to bright indirect light
- Water: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings
3. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Peace lilies are not only beautiful but also great for improving indoor air quality. They can filter out a variety of pollutants and are known to increase indoor humidity, which is beneficial for respiratory health.
- Light: Low to medium light
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist
4. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a multifunctional plant that not only purifies the air but also provides a soothing gel for burns and cuts. It’s a great addition to any kitchen or bathroom.
- Light: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings
Get my FREE list of resources to help turn our house into a home HERE
Best Outdoor Plants for a Healthier Home
1. Lavender
Lavender is known for its calming fragrance and beautiful purple blooms. It can help reduce stress and anxiety, making your outdoor space a relaxing retreat.
- Light: Full sun
- Water: Water regularly but allow the soil to dry out between waterings
2. Rosemary
Rosemary is a fragrant herb that can improve air quality and also be used in cooking. It’s a great addition to any garden or patio.
- Light: Full sun
- Water: Water regularly, especially during dry periods
3. Marigolds
Marigolds are bright and cheerful flowers that can repel insects naturally. They are perfect for planting around your garden to protect other plants.
- Light: Full sun
- Water: Water regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist
Get my FREE list of resources to help turn our house into a home HERE
Delicious Recipes to Enjoy with Your Plant Friends
To complement your new plant additions, here are two delicious recipes that you can enjoy while basking in the health benefits of your green companions.
Homemade Lavender Lemonade
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
- 1 cup lavender simple syrup (recipe below)
- 4 cups cold water
- Ice
- Lemon slices and lavender sprigs for garnish
Lavender Simple Syrup:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons dried lavender flowers
Instructions:
1. To make the lavender simple syrup, combine water and sugar in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and add the dried lavender flowers. Let steep for 30 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture to remove the lavender flowers and let the syrup cool.
4. In a pitcher, combine the lemon juice, lavender simple syrup, and cold water. Stir well.
5. Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices and lavender sprigs.
Rosemary Garlic Bread
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it on a baking sheet.
6. In a small bowl, mix the rosemary and garlic. Sprinkle the mixture over the loaf and gently press it in.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
8. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Get my FREE list of resources to help turn our house into a home HERE
Adding plants to your home, both inside and outside, can significantly improve your home’s health and your family’s. From purifying the air to boosting your mood, these green companions offer a range of benefits. And with the addition of homemade lavender lemonade and rosemary garlic bread, you can enjoy the best of nature both in your decor and your diet. So tell your hubby you need to make a trip to the garden center!
If you enjoyed this, please leave a comment on what you thought! I love hearing new ideas! Thank you so much for reading!
For more advice on easy dinner ideas, daily recipes, meal plans, and learning about the myriad of health benefits offered by natural foods, follow me, Homemaker Recipes. I’m here to help busy moms, health enthusiasts, and everyone in between discover the joys and benefits of home cooking for themselves and their family! After all, home is where the best things are made!
Get my FREE list of resources to help turn our house into a home HERE
