The Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata), also known as the Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, has earned a solid reputation as one of the most resilient and versatile houseplants available today. This hardy plant has long, sword-shaped leaves with green and yellow patterns, often resembling the skin of a snake—hence its name.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the snake plant offers a range of benefits, from improving indoor air quality to being low-maintenance and offering medicinal properties.
In this detailed blog post, we will explore the multifaceted benefits of the snake plant and why it deserves a prominent place in your home.
Table of Contents
Introduction to the Snake Plant
The Snake Plant is native to West Africa, particularly regions of Nigeria and Congo. It belongs to the Asparagaceae family, which includes asparagus and other hardy, drought-tolerant plants.
Due to its striking appearance and easy care, the snake plant is a favorite for both beginner and seasoned plant enthusiasts alike.
Snake plants are evergreen perennials, meaning they retain their leaves and remain green throughout the year. They are also known for their stiff, upright leaves, which can grow up to several feet tall.
With its rich history of being used as an ornamental and functional plant, the snake plant has earned a reputation far beyond mere decoration.
Air Purifying Capabilities
NASA’s Clean Air Study
One of the most well-known benefits of the snake plant is its ability to purify the air. In 1989, NASA conducted a Clean Air Study to identify which houseplants were most effective at removing indoor pollutants, and the snake plant ranked high on the list.
The study found that snake plants can remove a variety of toxins from the air, including:
- Formaldehyde: Found in household cleaning products, paints, and fabrics.
- Benzene: Present in cigarette smoke, detergents, and synthetic fibers.
- Xylene and Toluene: These are solvents found in paint thinners and adhesives.
- Trichloroethylene: Found in dry cleaning products and some adhesives.
Photosynthesis and Oxygen Production
Snake plants are unique because they perform crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) photosynthesis, which is uncommon among most plants. This means they absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) during the night and release oxygen.
Many plants release oxygen only during the day, so the snake plant can improve oxygen levels in your home 24/7, especially when placed in bedrooms or spaces where people sleep.
Improving Indoor Air Quality
Indoor air quality is increasingly becoming a concern as modern homes are often tightly sealed to conserve energy, trapping indoor pollutants like dust, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and allergens.
The snake plant’s ability to filter out these harmful substances makes it an excellent choice for improving air quality, especially in urban environments where pollution levels are higher.
Health and Medicinal Benefits
Respiratory Health
The air-purifying properties of the snake plant are directly linked to respiratory health. By reducing indoor pollutants, this plant can help alleviate symptoms related to asthma, allergies, and other respiratory conditions.
People with sensitive lungs or those who suffer from seasonal allergies may find some relief with a snake plant in their environment.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
In traditional African medicine, snake plant leaves were often crushed and applied to skin wounds to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Recent studies suggest that the saponins and flavonoids found in snake plants possess anti-inflammatory properties. While more research is needed, this opens up the possibility of using the plant in future skin care products and topical ointments.
Antibacterial Properties
The snake plant contains compounds that exhibit antimicrobial properties, which can inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Some research has shown that these compounds may help fight against common pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. This means that the plant could have potential medicinal uses in the future.
Psychological and Mental Health Benefits
Reducing Stress and Anxiety
Numerous studies have shown that simply being around plants can help reduce stress and anxiety. The snake plant is no exception. Its calming, structured appearance can bring a sense of order and peace to a room.
The act of caring for a plant—watering it, trimming its leaves, and watching it grow—can also foster a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
Boosting Productivity
Having plants in workspaces has been linked to improved focus, creativity, and productivity. A 2014 study from the University of Exeter found that employees were more productive and reported higher job satisfaction in environments that included houseplants.
The snake plant’s ability to thrive in low light and under minimal care makes it an ideal office plant for both home and professional settings.
Enhancing Mood and Well-being
Snake plants, like many houseplants, contribute to a more positive mood and overall well-being. The simple act of introducing nature into your living or working space can create a more pleasant, aesthetically appealing environment.
The snake plant’s elegant, upright growth can give a sense of balance and harmony, which is known to influence emotional health.
Impact on Sleep Quality
Because the snake plant absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen even at night, it can have a direct impact on sleep quality.
Higher oxygen levels can promote more restful sleep by improving breathing and reducing instances of waking up due to discomfort.
For individuals with breathing issues like sleep apnea or asthma, this plant can be a natural, non-invasive way to promote better sleep.
By placing snake plants in your bedroom, you can enjoy a peaceful, oxygen-rich environment. Unlike many plants, the snake plant’s CAM photosynthesis ensures it won’t compete for oxygen while you sleep, making it an ideal bedroom companion.
Snake Plant and Feng Shui
In Feng Shui, a traditional Chinese practice of harmonizing people with their environment, the snake plant is considered a symbol of strength and protection.
It’s believed that the sharp, pointed leaves of the snake plant can ward off negative energy and act as a shield for its owners.
- Wealth and Prosperity: In Feng Shui, the snake plant is often associated with financial success and growth when placed in specific areas of a home or office.
- Placing the Plant: Ideally, snake plants should be placed near the entrance of a home to protect it from harmful energy and invite prosperity.
- Balancing Energy: The tall, rigid structure of the snake plant represents yang energy, which is active and vibrant. It balances yin energy, which is more passive and soft.
Low Maintenance and Durability
Resilience to Neglect
One of the most appealing aspects of snake plants is their ability to thrive on minimal care.
These plants are drought-tolerant and can go weeks without being watered, making them perfect for people who travel frequently or are not always available to tend to plants.
Adaptability to Different Conditions
Snake plants can thrive in a variety of light conditions, from low, indirect light to full sun. This adaptability makes them suitable for nearly any room in a home, including areas with little natural light, such as bathrooms or hallways.
In addition, they can tolerate a range of temperatures, though they prefer to stay above 50°F (10°C).
Longevity
Snake plants are long-lived, often thriving for many years with minimal care. Some varieties can grow quite tall, making them an impressive centerpiece in a home.
As long as they receive occasional watering and are kept in the right environment, they can last for decades.
Environmental Impact
Sustainable Plant Choice
In today’s age of sustainability, choosing plants like the snake plant that require minimal resources is a responsible option.
Due to their drought tolerance, snake plants do not require constant watering, making them a water-efficient choice for eco-conscious households.
Carbon Sequestration
Like all plants, snake plants absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis. However, their CAM process allows them to absorb CO2 even at night, further contributing to reducing carbon levels in their surroundings.
While a single plant won’t solve climate change, having multiple snake plants can incrementally help lower indoor carbon levels.
Snake Plant Varieties
The snake plant family is diverse, with several different species and cultivars that offer various appearances and sizes. Here are some popular varieties:
- Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Laurentii’: The most common variety, featuring green leaves with yellow edges.
- Sansevieria cylindrica: Known for its cylindrical, rod-like leaves, this variety has a more unique, sculptural appearance.
- Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Twisted Sister’: This variety has leaves that curl and twist, giving it a whimsical, spiral shape.
- Sansevieria ‘Moonshine’: A rare, silver-green variety that has a more muted, elegant appearance.
Common Myths and Misconceptions
Despite its many benefits, there are several myths surrounding the snake plant that need to be debunked:
- Myth: Snake plants are toxic to humans.
Fact: While the plant contains saponins, which can be mildly toxic if ingested in large quantities, it poses no serious threat to humans. However, pets like cats and dogs should avoid consuming the leaves. - Myth: Snake plants only thrive in low light.
Fact: Snake plants can tolerate low light but prefer bright, indirect light. They can even survive in direct sunlight if acclimated properly.
Read: Is Snake Plant Toxic to Cats? A Complete Guide for Pet Owners.
How to Care for a Snake Plant
Watering
Snake plants prefer to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s best to err on the side of caution. In general, water every 2-4 weeks depending on the season and the humidity in your home.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining soil mix, such as a cactus or succulent mix, is ideal for snake plants. Ensure that the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating.
Light
While snake plants can survive in low light, they thrive in medium to bright, indirect light. If you want your snake plant to grow faster, placing it in a well-lit room will help.
Temperature
Snake plants prefer temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (16°C to 29°C). They can tolerate cooler temperatures but should be kept away from drafts and cold windows during the winter.
Conclusion
The Snake Plant offers a multitude of benefits for health, wellness, and home environments. From improving air quality to being a powerful symbol in Feng Shui, this plant can transform your space while requiring very little effort in return.
Its resilience, beauty, and versatility make it a top choice for anyone looking to bring the benefits of nature indoors.
Whether you are looking to boost your productivity, enhance your sleep, or simply beautify your home, the snake plant proves to be more than just an aesthetic addition.
With proper care, this plant can be a long-lasting, functional, and environmentally friendly companion.