6 Plants That Can Help Lower Your Stress Levels

Lavender is famously known for its calming effects on people, and is perfect to keep at your desk or next to your bed to help promote a good night's sleep. "Lavender is a great anxiety fighter," explained Donna Letier, CEO and cofounder of Gardenuity, a direct-to-consumer garden kit brand. "The scent is known to slow down your heart rate and lower blood pressure and stress levels. Having this special plant around also relieves some forms of depression".

Letier also said rosemary is the perfect plant to add to your bath at night to help keep you relaxed. "Not only does rosemary reduce stress, but it is also proven to improve memory function," said Letier. I personally like to breathe in some rosemary when I am experiencing writer's block while working.

The holy basil plant (also known as tulsi) is not only unique looking, but also has wonderful benefits for the mind and body. "This beautifully scented plant is believed to have adaptogenic benefits and research confirms it protects against stress," shared Letier. She suggested picking a few leaves from the plant, muddling them in your palms, and breathing in their scent; it will help any negative feelings slip away.

Rose-scented geraniums are not only nice to look at, but also have some positive effects on the body. "The aromatics and essential oils produced by the foliage in this floral encourage your body to produce serotonin, which is attributed to feelings of well-being and happiness," explained Nathan Beckner, lead plant designer and horticulturist at Sagegreenlife. In addition to its ability to lift your mood, Beckner also said that it can be used in baths for a healthy detox and easily given as gifts to friends, as the plant is very simple to propagate.