Mala McAlpin Ever wanted to add a touch of lush greenery to your spa, but never fancied yourself a green thumb?
Indoor plants are renowned for improving the air quality and creating a sense of calm tranquility in any space. In fact, many studies have been carried out to examine the effects of plants on human emotions, and show that not only are they pleasing to the eye, but viewing plants reduces stress. Some indoor plant varieties also boast a few additional benefits that may be welcome additions to your spa or clinic.
We know how busy you and your team are, so to keep things simple, we’ve rounded up a few of the best low-maintenance options that even the rooky gardener can keep alive.
Aloe Vera
Like any succulent, Aloe is hardwearing and so simple to keep, and you’re probably already aware of the countless topical benefits of Aloe Vera – soothing and anti-inflammatory, a great natural treatment for eczema, psoriasis and burns, plus its extensive combination of vitamins, minerals, saccharides, amino acids, anthraquinones, enzymes, lignin, saponins and salicylic acids. It’s also great at reducing benzene from the air; commonly found in paint cleaning products. You could even snap off a fresh stem and incorporate it into your treatments if you’re feeling creative!
Spider Plant
A wonderful choice for both hanging and conventional pots, the Spider Plant is said to remove up to 90 percent of airborne toxins from its environment in just a few days, particularly helping to absorb mould and other allergens, as well as carbon monoxide and xylene – common volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that our everyday items like furniture, carpets and household appliances emit into the air.
Peace Lily
Already a very popular choice of indoor plant variety, with its attractive dark, waxy leaves and delicate white flowers. Also a handy helper for mould, absorbing spores through its leaves and circulating them in its roots to be used as food. Peace Lilies also do the trick for absorbing traces of alcohol and acetone.
Rubber Plant/Ficus
Attractive, hardwearing and versatile, Rubber Plants are sometimes seen as desktop-sized features, and other times, towering indoor trees. Rubber plants rank quite high on the list when it comes to the absorption of household toxins, particularly formaldehyde – making it the perfect addition to your nail area.
Gerberas
If you were hoping some colour would make it to the list, this one’s for you! Perhaps one of the happiest plants available, Gerbera Daisies will instantly brighten any room, are available in an endless range of colours, and reduce both formaldehyde and benzene from the air. Just remember to keep in a sunny spot.
