SleepWatch by Bodymatter

You already know that a variety of factors can influence the quality of your sleep, from the comfort of your mattress to the darkness of your bedroom….but what about your houseplants? One intriguing element that has gained attention in recent years is the presence of plants in the bedroom and their potential impact on sleep. The claim that houseplants can improve sleep is rooted in the notion that they can purify the air by removing toxins and increasing oxygen levels. It has also been suggested that the presence of plants may have a calming, stress-reducing effect, promoting relaxation and thus, better sleep. So, what does the science say?

Air Quality Improvement

Researchers have found that certain houseplants can indeed improve indoor air quality by removing pollutants such as benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. While cleaner air is generally better for your health, the effects on sleep are not clearly established. The study acknowledges that more research is needed to determine whether cleaner air translates into better sleep.

Oxygen Production

Plants undergo photosynthesis, a process that converts carbon dioxide into oxygen. While it is true that having plants in your bedroom can increase oxygen levels, the impact is relatively small compared to the amount of oxygen we receive from breathing and ventilation. So, while it's a nice bonus, it's unlikely to be a contributing factor to your sleep quality.

Stress Relief

There have been multiple studies on the psychological benefits of indoor plants. Results suggest that the presence of plants can reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a more relaxed atmosphere. This psychological aspect may have a more significant impact on sleep quality than physical effects like air quality or oxygen levels.

Aesthetic Benefits

Some scientists argue that the aesthetics of plants, along with their greenery, can create a soothing and tranquil environment, promoting restful sleep. This idea aligns with the principles of biophilia, which suggest that humans have an innate connection with nature and that its presence can be emotionally comforting.

While there are some scientific indications that having plants in your bedroom can have a positive impact on your sleep quality, it's important to acknowledge that the research is not yet conclusive. The psychological benefits and aesthetics of plants in the bedroom are more likely to contribute to improved sleep than any direct physical effects on air quality or oxygen levels.

If you enjoy having plants in your bedroom and find them aesthetically pleasing and soothing, by all means, keep them! They may indeed help create a more tranquil and relaxing sleep environment. However, for those specifically seeking to improve air quality or increase oxygen levels for better sleep, other factors like ventilation and air purifiers may have a more substantial effect.

Did you like this article? Check out How Sleeping With Pets Can Affect Your Sleep Quality.