“Unexplored benefits of plants for Mental Health”

3 min readFeb 18, 2023

Mental health refers to the cognitive aspects of health that includes thinking, reasoning, remembering, imagining, and learning words. Cognitive aspect is related to the processes of perception, memory, judgment, and reasoning, as contrasted with emotional processes. Mental health leads to an increase in self-esteem, and thereby leads to confidence in social situations. As per the WHO study, Globally, one in seven 10–19-year-olds experiences a mental disorder. Everybody has ups and downs in their life. The correct way is to have people in life who will channelize one’s energy to the right path. Mental health is crucial to one’s overall well-being and quality of life, and it is important that people receive the appropriate care and support they need to manage their mental health. It is essential that we all take mental health seriously and work together to promote awareness, reduce stigma, and increase access to effective treatment

How plants contribute to Mental Health?

Shankhpushpi (Scientific name-Convolvulus prostratus) *Img1*

Jatamansi(Scientific name-Nardostachys jatamansi)*Img2*

Ashwagandha(Scientific name-Withania somnifera) *Img3*

Tulsi (Scientific nameOcimum tenuiflorum) From my garden

Valerian (Scientific name-
Valeriana officinalis) *Img4*

Brahmi (Scientific name-Bacopa monneri) *Img5*

Saint Johns-wort( Scientific name-Hypericum perforatum)*Img6*

I can provide some information about the potential benefits of plants for mental health according to Ayurveda. Ayurveda is a traditional Indian medical system that uses natural remedies, including plants, to promote health and well-being. Following are the potential benefits of plants for mental health according to Ayurveda.

Promotes relaxation and reduces stress-Ayurveda considers stress to be a major cause of many mental and physical health problems. Certain plants, such as Brahmi and Ashwagandha, are believed to have calming effects that can reduce stress and anxiety.
Improves cognitive function-Ayurvedic herbs like Shankhapushpi, Tulsi, and Jatamansi are believed to improve memory, concentration, and overall cognitive function.
Boosts mood- Plants like St. John’s Wort and Brahmi are believed to have mood-boosting effects and can help alleviate symptoms of depression.
Promotes sleep- Ayurveda believes that adequate sleep is essential for mental health. Plants like Valerian, Brahmi, and Ashwagandha are believed to promote restful sleep and can be helpful for people with sleep disorders.

It may be concluded, Ayurveda considers plants to be powerful natural remedies that can promote mental and physical health. However, it’s important to consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before using any herbal remedies to ensure they are safe and effective for your individual needs.

Explore:

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/277867591_Therapeutic_Influences_of_Plants_in_Hospital_Rooms_on_Surgical_Recovery#:~:text=Patients%20in%20hospital%20rooms%20with,patients%20in%20the%20control%20group.

TLDR

Well, actually I wanted to air my views about this topic. Many people fear to talk about this topic but as an adolescent I think understanding about this helps us to make a better approach for life and its purpose. One should definitely feel free taking help from someone. These plants and the whole information tells beauty of life and remembering to cherish it. Plants are the best sign of gratitude and are present everywhere.