Aroma of Calm: 12 Plants That Can Help Manage Stress

Recent statistics indicate that many people are experiencing increased stress. In a time of complete uncertainty, when predicting what tomorrow will bring is impossible, many feel suspended. One way to ground oneself and find support in an unstable world is to connect with nature. Here, we explore plants that can help restore a sense of calm without leaving home.

Researchers have frequently studied the relationship between contact with nature and anxiety levels. While ancient humans needed to be vigilant about their surroundings to avoid danger, today’s stressors are different. However, observing plants still provides a sense of calm. You don’t need to live in nature; even a single houseplant on your desk can reduce stress.

Balcony Antidepressants

Some plants, besides their appearance, have additional calming properties due to their essential oils. These volatile molecules can affect emotional states, help with focus, and improve mood. To experience the benefits, you don’t necessarily have to apply essential oils to your skin. You can plant them on your windowsill or balcony and gently brush against them as you pass by, filling the room with a pleasant aroma.

It’s important to remember that any plant can cause allergic reactions or individual intolerances.

Plants considered antidepressants include mint, which contains menthol and citral. These compounds can help reduce nervous excitement while combating drowsiness and fatigue. Studies show that mint enhances memory and aids in falling asleep. Lavender is also known for its calming and anxiety-reducing effects.

Geranium, or pelargonium, has a distinct scent that isn’t for everyone, but its aroma alleviates anxiety and enhances cognitive functions. The essential oils in geraniums can help with insomnia.

Herbs like basil, rosemary, and oregano are often associated with cooking, but they also have stress-reducing properties and can improve concentration.

Citrus scents are excellent for combating gloom and anxiety. Their invigorating aroma can help alleviate worry and nervous tension, shifting thoughts from anxiety to positivity. Mandarins, lemons, and oranges, which grow well indoors, will not only uplift your mood with their scent but also their vibrant appearance.

Bouquet Against Stress

If you’re not inclined to cultivate plants at home, a bouquet of antidepressant flowers can be a wonderful way to support your emotional well-being.

Roses, for example, are known for their calming and soothing scent. Simply observing these flowers can induce relaxation. The fresh, sweet scent of jasmine, on the other hand, promotes productive brain function, boosts mood, and alleviates irritability. Familiar chrysanthemums improve overall psycho-emotional health.

Eucalyptus, known for its antibacterial properties, also aids concentration, reduces fatigue, and enhances productivity. Research shows that the scent of eucalyptus can improve short-term memory. Its silvery-blue leaves have become popular in floral arrangements and can be used as standalone bouquets for home décor.

But it’s not just the aroma of flowers that brings tranquility. The act of arranging a bouquet positively impacts one’s state of mind. Engaging with plants stimulates all the senses: you touch different textured leaves and stems, inhale their scent, observe the colors of nature, and hear the pleasant rustle of leaves. This process encourages the production of serotonin, which regulates sleep cycles and helps focus on the present moment, moving away from anxious thoughts about the future. This is something many of us often lack.