10 Indoor Plants to Fight Sleep Apnea and Insomnia

Do you suffer from insomnia, sleep deprivation, or sleep apnea? Sleep specialists are reporting an increase in disorders related to COVID-19, some are even coining the term “COVID-somnia”. Although we know sleep is necessary for increasing your resilience and helping you de-stress, for many people, falling and staying asleep can be the most frustrating experience. That’s why it’s more important than ever to make your bedroom a calming sanctuary so you can drift off into a peaceful sleep. 

Can plants help you sleep better? Yes! Studies show that indoor plants increase relaxation – the mere sight of plants can soothe us and calm our nervous systems, thereby helping us get to sleep more easily. What’s more, many plants filter out toxins from the air and convert carbon dioxide to oxygen, helping you breathe better while you sleep. 

Let’s take a look at the best plants for a better sleep!

 

1. Snake Plant

A natural air purifier, the snake plant will convert carbon dioxide to oxygen while you sleep, converting even more oxygen during the day. It’s super easy to care for, making it a great choice for any bedroom. 

 

2. Lavender plant 

It’s believed that Ancient Greeks used lavender to treat insomnia. The sweet smell is naturally calming, making it a wonderful sleep aid that will increase deep sleep and slow down the heart rate. Lavender plants are hardy and adaptable and will make beautiful and fragrant additions to bedrooms.

 

3. Jasmine

Jasmine’s sweet fragrance and lovely white flowers can have a soothing effect on the body and mind. Sleeping in a room with a jasmine plant can help drive away insomnia and promote deeper sleep. 

 

4. Aloe Vera 

You might know aloe vera for it’s healing properties against burns and wounds, but studies have also found that it can actually help to prolong sleep. An aloe plant in the bedroom will also emit oxygen at night. What’s more, these hardy plants require little maintenance and watering, and can live a long life.

5. Peace Lily

According to a clean air study performed by NASA, the peace lily is one of the best plants to have around for removing toxins. It can thrive in both low- and high- light environments, and requires little maintenance. If you want the white flowers to grow, try placing it near a window and watch this lovely plant brighten up your room. 

 

6. English Ivy 

NASA’s Clean Air study also found English ivy to filter out toxins such as benzene and formaldehyde. It can handle a shady environment, so if you like to keep your bedroom dark and cool this plant is the perfect fit. 

 

7. Areca Palm

This exotic plant will purify the air while you sleep and you’ll love the tropical mood it brings to your bedroom. Researchers from Pukyong National University found that it lowers CO2 emissions. It’s happy in both full sun and partially shaded environments.

 

8. Golden Pothos 

Another low maintenance plant, the golden pothos can live in lower light environments. It will remove formaldehyde and carbon monoxide from the air, helping you sleep better. 

 

9. Spider Plant 

The spider plant’s fun and fresh look will not only add personality to your bedroom, it can also filter the air and improve the quality of your sleep. Spider plants look great in a hanging basket, are easy to care for, and readily produce spider ‘babies’, so you can grow them all over your home. 

 

10. Valerian Plant 

Valerian root is known for its relaxing qualities and is often used as a sleep aid. It’s no surprise then that placing a plant in your bedroom can help with insomnia and improve your sleep. This plant requires a healthy amount of sunshine, so place it next to a window for optimal health. 

 

The Dalai Lama said it best – 

“Sleep is the best meditation”

 

With these plants in your bedroom you’ll fall asleep more calm and rested and wake up feeling refreshed!