Plant lovers, this one’s for you: the snake plant, also called mother-in-law’s tongue or viper’s bowstring hemp, is a sturdy, fashionable plant that’s much more than just a pretty face. Snake Plant benefits are so satisfying.
But the snake plant offers much more than just its low-maintenance allure and sleek, sword-like leaves. This adaptable plant is a superstar in the world of indoor greenery, with benefits ranging from Feng Shui-based air purification to positive energy and good vibes. In this blog, we’re going to dive deep into all the reasons why you should consider adding a snake plant to your collection. So, grab a cup of tea, get comfy, and let’s explore the wonderful world of snake plants together!
7 snake plant benefits: Air, Health and Feng Shui…
Table of Contents
1. Air Purifying Properties
One of Snake Plant benefits is its incredible ability to purify the air. Perhaps you’ve heard of NASA’s Clean Air Study, which investigated the most effective plants for eliminating dangerous pollutants from the atmosphere. Guess what? The snake plant made the list!
Here’s how it works. Snake plants have a unique ability to absorb toxins through their leaves and produce clean oxygen. They’re particularly good at removing toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, xylene, and toluene—nasty chemicals that can linger in the air from everyday items like cleaning products, paint, and even furniture.
Even more intriguing is the unique form of photosynthesis known as CAM (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism) that snake plants engage in. This means that, in contrast to most plants, which can only do this during the day, they can turn CO2 into oxygen at night. So, while you’re catching some Zs, your snake plant is hard at work, making your bedroom air fresher and cleaner.
The snake plant is particularly remarkable in comparison to other well-known air purifying plants due to its extreme hardiness. It is an excellent option if you’re searching for a low-maintenance plant that also improves the air quality in your house because it can grow in low light and doesn’t require a lot of water. Additionally, having a few snake plants around can have a considerable impact, improving your daily sense of refreshment and ease of breathing.
Thus, if you’ve been hesitant to get a snake plant, consider it not just a lovely accent to your interior design but also a 24/7 green air filter.
2. Health Benefits of Snake Plants
Let’s now discuss how using snake plants can really improve your health. You did really read correctly! These verdant companions are more than just eye enjoyment; they can actually improve your health.
Let’s talk about oxygen first. When it comes to generating oxygen, snake plants are nocturnal creatures. They emit oxygen at night because of their CAM (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism) photosynthesis. This means that having a snake plant in your bedroom can help you wake up feeling less stuffy and more refreshed by enhancing the quality of the air as you sleep.
That’s not all, though. Numerous health advantages might result from improved indoor air quality, particularly if you have asthma or allergies. Sneezing, coughing, and eye irritation can all be lessened by using snake plants, which eliminate typical indoor toxins like benzene and formaldehyde. In addition to enhancing respiratory health generally, breathing cleaner air can facilitate deeper, more comfortable breathing.
The capacity of snake plants to regulate humidity levels is yet another fantastic benefit. Dry skin, respiratory problems, and even an increased risk of colds can be caused by dry indoor air. Through a process known as transpiration, snake plants release moisture into the air, which can assist maintain a comfortable humidity level in your interior space. During the winter months, when indoor heating can dry up the air, this is especially helpful.
Thus, snake plants not only provide some greenery into your room, but they also make your home healthier. Consider them as your own air quality attendants, silently assisting you in feeling your best while operating in the background. Snake plants are a great addition to any indoor environment, whether your goal is to improve your quality of sleep, ease your breathing, or just have a healthier house.
3. Snake Plant in Feng Shui
Alright, let’s switch gears a bit and dive into the fascinating world of Feng Shui. If you’ve ever wondered how the placement of items in your home can influence your energy and overall well-being, Feng Shui has some interesting answers. And guess what? Our beloved snake plant plays a starring role here too!
Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese art of arranging spaces to promote harmony and balance, often highlights the benefits of incorporating plants into your home. Plants are seen as life-giving elements that can enhance the flow of positive energy, or “chi,” throughout your space. The snake plant, with its upright, sword-like leaves, is particularly valued for its ability to ward off negative energy and attract positive vibes.
One of the key principles of Feng Shui is to use plants with strong, upward growth to symbolize growth and progress in your life. The snake plant’s tall, vertical leaves are perfect for this, as they represent upward growth and resilience. Placing a snake plant in areas where you want to boost energy and focus—like your home office or study area—can help create a more productive and motivating environment.
But that’s not all. The snake plant is also believed to bring protective energy. According to Feng Shui, placing a snake plant near the entrance of your home can help guard against negative energy trying to enter your space. It’s like having a green guardian watching over you and your home.
For those interested in wealth and prosperity, snake plants can be strategically placed in areas associated with these aspects. The southeast corner of your house is regarded as the wealth corner in Feng Shui. Including a snake plant in this area can aid in drawing wealth and prosperity.
So, whether you’re a seasoned Feng Shui practitioner or just curious about the positive effects of plant placement, the snake plant is a wonderful addition to your home. Not only does it purify the air and boost your health, but it also helps create a balanced, harmonious, and prosperous living environment. Now that’s what I call a win-win!
4. Snake Plant for Indoor Air Quality
Now let’s discuss about another Snake Plant benefits is their capacity to enhance interior air quality. “Wait, didn’t we already cover the air-purifying stuff?” may be on your mind. Yes, but the story doesn’t end there!
Besides their impressive ability to remove toxins like formaldehyde and benzene, snake plants also play a crucial role in regulating indoor humidity levels. Ever notice how dry your skin and throat can feel during the winter months when the heater is running full blast? That’s because indoor heating can suck the moisture right out of the air. Enter the snake plant, your new best friend in combating dry air.
Snake plants release moisture into the air through a process called transpiration. This means they help keep the air in your home at a comfortable humidity level, which can be a lifesaver for your skin, respiratory system, and overall comfort. Say goodbye to dry skin, scratchy throats, and annoying static electricity!
But wait, there’s more! By improving the humidity levels in your home, snake plants also help reduce the presence of airborne allergens and dust. This is especially helpful if you suffer from allergies or asthma. With cleaner, more humidified air, you’re less likely to experience those pesky symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and dry eyes.
Another cool thing about snake plants is their ability to help reduce mold and microbial presence in the air. Some studies suggest that the antimicrobial properties of snake plants can help lower the levels of mold spores and bacteria in your home. This is great news for anyone looking to create a healthier, cleaner living environment.
So, not only do snake plants make your home look more vibrant and livelier, but they also work behind the scenes to create a healthier and more comfortable space. Whether it’s by regulating humidity, reducing allergens, or just making the air a bit cleaner to breathe, snake plants are true indoor air quality champions. And the best part? They do all this with minimal effort on your part. Just sit back, relax, and let your snake plant do its thing!
5. Low Maintenance and Easy Care
Let’s be honest, we all love plants that don’t require a ton of fussing over. This is where snake plants truly shine. They’re like the superheroes of the plant world, thriving on a level of neglect that would make most other plants wither. So, if you’re new to the world of indoor gardening or just don’t have the time for high-maintenance plants, snake plants are perfect for you.
First things first, let’s talk light. Snake plants are incredibly adaptable when it comes to light conditions. They can bask in bright, indirect light or chill out in low-light corners of your home. This makes them ideal for just about any room, from a sunny living room to a dimly lit office. If you’re not sure where to put your snake plant, don’t stress—they’ll be happy almost anywhere.
Let’s move on to irrigation. Since snake plants are drought-tolerant, they don’t require regular irrigation. Actually, they would rather go without water in between. As one of the few ways you can truly damage a snake plant is by overwatering it, a snake plant will overlook your occasional neglect of watering. Watering them every two to three weeks is a decent general rule of thumb, or even less frequently in the winter.
When it comes to soil, snake plants aren’t picky eaters. They do well in well-draining soil, such as a cactus or succulent mix. This helps prevent the roots from sitting in water, which can lead to root rot. Just plant them in a pot with drainage holes, and you’re good to go.
Temperature-wise, snake plants are pretty flexible too. They thrive in typical household temperatures but can tolerate cooler conditions as well. Just keep them away from extreme cold or drafts, and they’ll be perfectly happy.
And let’s not forget about pests and diseases. Snake plants are relatively resistant to most common pests and diseases. Occasionally, they might attract mealybugs or spider mites, but these are easy to manage with a bit of neem oil or insecticidal soap.
In a nutshell, snake plants are the definition of low-maintenance. They’re perfect for busy people, beginners, or anyone who wants to enjoy the benefits of indoor plants without a lot of effort. With their forgiving nature and hardiness, snake plants make it easy to bring a touch of greenery into your home and reap all the wonderful benefits they offer. So, go ahead and add a snake plant (or two) to your space—you won’t regret it!
6. Aesthetic Appeal
Alright, let’s talk about the fun stuff—how snake plants can totally jazz up your home décor! Besides being a powerhouse of benefits, these plants are also pretty stylish and versatile, making them a fantastic addition to any space.
First off, let’s appreciate the sheer variety of snake plants out there. They come in different shapes and sizes, from the tall, sword-like leaves of the Sansevieria trifasciata to the more compact, bushier Sansevieria cylindrica. And their colors? Oh, they range from deep greens to striking variegated patterns with hints of yellow or silver. You’re bound to find one that complements your personal style and your home’s aesthetic.
Snake plants are also great at making a statement. Their sleek, architectural leaves add a modern touch to any room. Whether you’re aiming for a minimalist vibe, a contemporary look, or even a bit of boho flair, a snake plant can fit right in. They look fantastic in stylish pots, from classic ceramic to trendy woven baskets. You can even get creative and DIY a pot that matches your décor!
The adaptability of snake plants is one of their best features. Whether you’re trying to liven up your living room, add some greenery to your office, or even simply add some brightness to your bedroom, they look great in almost any space. Because of their graceful, upright growth, they are ideal for creating height in a room, filling in empty corners, or even acting as a dramatic focal point on a console or coffee table.
And let’s not forget about their low-profile nature. Snake plants don’t take up much floor space, so they’re great for small apartments or tight spots where you want a bit of greenery without crowding the area. Plus, their vertical growth helps draw the eye upward, which can make a room feel a bit taller and more open.
In short, snake plants aren’t just good for your health—they’re also great for your home’s style. Their unique look and adaptable nature make them a perfect fit for any interior design. So go ahead, get a little creative with your plant placement, and let these green beauties enhance your living space. Your home will thank you!
7. Psychological and Emotional Benefits
Let’s dive into a really exciting aspect of having snake plants in your home: the psychological and emotional perks. It turns out that these green wonders do more than just brighten up a room—they can actually have a positive impact on your mood and mental well-being!
First up, let’s talk about the calming effect of having plants around. Studies have shown that being in the presence of greenery can help reduce stress and anxiety. Just looking at a plant can make you feel more relaxed and at ease. Snake plants, with their sleek and soothing appearance, are perfect for creating a tranquil environment in your home or office. Their low-maintenance nature means you don’t have to worry about them adding to your stress—just their presence alone is enough to help you unwind.
Plants are also known to boost productivity and focus. If you’ve ever struggled to concentrate while working or studying, adding a snake plant to your workspace might help. The presence of greenery can enhance cognitive function and creativity. It’s like having a little green cheerleader cheering you on as you tackle your to-do list!
And let’s not overlook the mood-boosting benefits. Studies suggest that having plants in your living space can lead to increased feelings of happiness and satisfaction. Snake plants are a great way to bring a touch of nature indoors, which can help you feel more connected to the outside world and improve your overall sense of well-being.
Plus, caring for a plant can be a surprisingly rewarding experience. Even though snake plants are low-maintenance, nurturing them and watching them grow can give you a sense of accomplishment and purpose. It’s a gentle reminder that even small acts of care can lead to positive outcomes, which can be incredibly uplifting.
So, in addition to all the practical benefits of snake plants, they also offer a range of emotional and psychological perks. They help reduce stress, enhance focus, boost your mood, and provide a satisfying sense of achievement. It’s like having a little green friend that not only makes your home look great but also helps you feel great. How cool is that?
Conclusion
So, there you have it—snake plants are more than just a stylish addition to your home; they’re like little green powerhouses packed with benefits! From purifying the air and boosting your health to enhancing your home’s décor and lifting your mood, these versatile plants truly do it all.
Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant that thrives on neglect or you want to add a touch of greenery that also works hard behind the scenes, a snake plant is a fantastic choice. It’s not just about the aesthetics (though they do look pretty awesome); it’s about creating a healthier, happier living environment for yourself and your loved ones.
If you’ve been contemplating adding a snake plant to your space, I hope this blog has given you the nudge you needed. They’re easy to care for, look great, and offer so many wonderful benefits that you’ll wonder how you ever lived without one. So go ahead, bring a bit of the outdoors in, and let a snake plant work its magic in your home. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Check out our other posts on snake plant
