In the constant stimulation of today’s hyperconnected world, getting adequate deep sleep can feel nearly impossible. Racing thoughts, glowing screens, and endless responsibilities keep relaxation perpetually out of reach.
Perhaps it’s time to enlist Mother Nature’s help in easing the mind and inviting rest. Surrounding yourself with plants’ calming essences as you prepare for bed can help pave the way for sound, restorative slumber.
We dug deep into both ancient medicinal wisdom and modern research seeking the most potent botanicals for beckoning the sandman. The following 6 made our list:
Lavender
With its signature scent and vivid purple hues, this Mediterranean flower is the ultimate insomnia antidote.
Lavender releases a bounty of fragrant phytochemicals like linalool and linalyl acetate which interact with neurotransmitter receptors in the brain responsible for mood and emotion.
Lavender has efficacy for easing anxiety, depression, and restlessness while improving sleep duration. Its sedative effects slow heart rate and blood pressure, cueing the body to relax. Keep living lavender plants on the nightstand for fresh aromatherapy as you wind down.
Jasmine
This beautifully scented night bloomer has long been used in Chinese medicine to reduce racing thoughts and worries, inviting restorative sleep instead.
Jasmine’s sweet scent significantly decreases sleep latency and increases quality of non-REM sleep.
Jasmine may work by lowering body temperature, which initiates the body’s preparation for sleep. Its GABA-like compounds are also responsible for muscle-relaxing and anxiety-reducing effects.
Snake Plant
This resilient succulent is more than just a striking sculptural accent. Snake plants effectively filter indoor air of toxins like formaldehyde, nitrogen oxide, and benzene while you drift away in dreamland.
Their leaves also generate oxygen through the night, purifying the breathing environment. This improves sleep quality for those struggling with sleep apnea or allergies.
Gardenia
One deep inhale of this showy shrub’s fragrant white blooms feels like instant serenity. Gardenias contain a natural Valium-like compound called gardenin that reduces anxiety and encourages relaxation when smelled.
The intoxicating floral scent also lowers blood pressure and slows heart rate, priming the body for rest.
Studies demonstrate gardenia oil helps shorten the time needed to fall asleep. Surround yourself with their sweet perfume as you prepare for bed.
Aloe Vera
Ancient Egyptians called aloe vera the “plant of immortality,” revered for its healing and rejuvenating powers. Keeping aloe plants in the bedroom is said to ward off negative energy, foster pleasant dreams, and protect your aura as you slumber.
Their oxygenating abilities purify and refresh the air overnight as well.
Aloe also contains biochemical compounds that promote skin cell regeneration and healing. Having the spiky succulent bedside provides a soothing dose of vitamins and phytochemicals as you sleep.
Peace Lily
With its elegant white blooms and vibrant green leaves, the peace lily lives up to its name by promoting a sense of inner calm and tranquility.
But it earns its place in the sleep plant hall of fame through its incredible ability to filter indoor air overnight.
Peace lilies remove volatile organic compounds like formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and benzene as you dream and fill the air with clean oxygen. Gazing at its pure white flowers lowers blood pressure and anxiety too.
Conclusion
With this botanical purifying bedroom air and emitting restorative aromas, sleep will become effortless. As their oxygenating leaves and fragrant compounds ease your burdens, your mind will empty and your body will melt into the bedding. Bring nature’s healing powers indoors through these powerful sleep-inducing plants. The sandman awaits.