Can Flowers Improve My Health & Wellbeing? 19 August 2025We often think of flowers as something decorative, lovely to look at, a sweet gesture for a birthday, or a centrepiece on the table. But what if they were more than that? What if flowers could actually make you feel better, emotionally and physically? It turns out, there’s growing research (and plenty of anecdotal evidence) suggesting that flowers can boost happiness, reduce stress, and even support mental and physical wellbeing. From the mood-lifting scent of lavender to the calming presence of a houseplant, floral effects can be powerful. At Julie’s Flowers, we’ve always believed that blooms do more than brighten up a room. They brighten up you. So in this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of flowers on your health, how they affect mood, and which plants and petals are considered nature’s little healers. Why Flowers Make Us Feel Good The Science Behind Floral Effects Mood-Boosting Flowers to Keep Around Medicinal Flowers: Nature’s First Aid Kit Flowers vs Plants: Is There a Difference for Health? How to Use Flowers for Wellbeing at Home 1. Why Flowers Make Us Feel Good Flowers have a remarkable way of lifting spirits. Whether it's a bouquet delivered unexpectedly or a fresh bunch on the windowsill, most people get a natural hit of happiness from being around blooms. This isn’t just a romantic idea, it’s backed by psychology. Studies have shown that flowers trigger the release of dopamine and serotonin (the body’s feel-good chemicals). Just looking at them can give us that fuzzy, contented feeling we all crave. And it’s not just about visual appeal. Fragrance plays a role too. Certain floral scents, like rose, jasmine and chamomile, are known for their relaxing effects. 2. The Science Behind Floral Effects Several academic studies have explored the connection between flowers and mood. A standout report by Rutgers University found that receiving flowers caused immediate happiness in 100% of participants, regardless of age. Here’s what science says flowers can do for you: Reduce anxiety: The presence of flowers in a room has been shown to calm nerves. Improve concentration: Some blooms, like orchids and lavender, may help with mental clarity. Encourage social interaction: People surrounded by flowers tend to feel more open, friendly and connected. Aid sleep: Certain flower fragrances, such as lavender, help relax the nervous system and promote better sleep quality. Whether it’s the colour, the scent or the symbolic gesture, flowers communicate positivity to the brain. 3. Mood-Boosting Flowers to Keep Around Looking to feel a little sunnier? Here are some flowers known for giving moods a gentle nudge in the right direction: Sunflowers Bright, bold and cheerful, sunflowers are like a natural anti-depressant. Their sunny faces and vibrant petals are proven to lift the mood. Tulips Simple and elegant, tulips symbolise rebirth and positivity, great for a mental refresh. Daisies Their innocent appearance makes them comforting. Daisies are linked to new beginnings and emotional clarity. Roses Beyond romance, roses have a calming effect. Pale pink or white varieties are especially soothing in mood. Hibiscus Their exotic appearance brings a feeling of tropical escape, helping to reduce mental fatigue. 4. Medicinal Flowers: Nature’s First Aid Kit Throughout history, flowers haven’t just been admired for their beauty, they’ve been used as natural remedies. Many flowers have medicinal properties that support wellbeing, both physically and emotionally. Lavender Used for centuries, lavender is well-known for its calming, anti-anxiety effects. A few drops of essential oil or a dried bouquet in the bedroom can improve sleep and reduce stress. Chamomile The dainty daisy-like flower is famous for soothing digestion and calming the mind. Chamomile tea remains a go-to for relaxation. Calendula This bright orange bloom is often used in skincare and healing balms. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties. Rose Petals Rich in antioxidants and often used in teas, rose petals can help with skin health and hydration, and some say they even support digestion. Echinacea Though often associated with immune support, echinacea is also a beautiful purple flower. It’s been used to fight off colds and boost resilience. 5. Flowers vs Plants: Is There a Difference for Health? While plants are often hailed for air-purifying and health-boosting properties, flowers shouldn't be overlooked. Yes, leafy plants like peace lilies, ferns and snake plants are fantastic for improving indoor air quality, but flowers can contribute to emotional wellbeing in more targeted ways. They: Trigger positive memories Reduce feelings of loneliness Mark meaningful life moments Act as visual affirmations of beauty and growth So ideally? Have both. A healthy mix of flowering and leafy plants creates a truly balanced wellbeing environment. 6. How to Use Flowers for Wellbeing at Home Want to harness the power of flowers in your daily life? Here are some easy ways to do it: Bedroom Blooms: Place a calming bouquet of lavender or roses near your bedside for better sleep and relaxation. Desk Positivity: Keep cheerful flowers like tulips or gerberas in your work space to boost focus and reduce stress. Kitchen Joy: Fresh herbs that flower, like basil and mint, bring both scent and utility. Window Displays: Bright window-facing flowers can help regulate your mood through light exposure and colour. And of course, don’t wait for an occasion to treat yourself to flowers. Buying blooms “just because” can feel wonderfully indulgent and restorative. 7. Are Flowers Really a Form of Medicine? They can be, just not in the way we typically think of medicine. While some medicinal flowers are used in teas, tinctures and oils, the true “medicine” of most blooms is emotional and psychological. That little boost in mood, that easing of stress, that sense of calm after arranging a bouquet, that is healing. In fact, flower therapy (or “floriography”) has long been a part of traditional holistic practices. Some therapists even use flowers during guided meditations and wellness treatments. Key Takeaways Flowers do more than look pretty, they positively impact mental and emotional wellbeing. Floral scents like lavender and rose can reduce anxiety and aid sleep. Bright blooms such as sunflowers and tulips lift mood and improve focus. Medicinal flowers like chamomile and calendula support physical health. Arranging or gifting flowers boosts serotonin and dopamine (the happy hormones). Don’t underestimate the wellbeing benefits of fresh blooms in your home. Frequently Asked Questions Do all flowers have health benefits? Not all flowers are “medicinal,” but many offer emotional or psychological wellbeing benefits through scent, appearance or symbolic meaning. Are artificial flowers just as effective for wellbeing? While they can brighten up a space visually, they won’t offer the scent or air-purifying benefits of real blooms. That said, they can still boost mood through aesthetics. Can I grow mood-boosting flowers indoors? Absolutely! Many mood-boosting flowers like orchids, gerberas and peace lilies grow well indoors with proper care. Boost Your Well-Being with Fresh Blooms With Same Day Delivery Across Newcastle and Sunderland So, can flowers improve your health and wellbeing? The answer is a resounding yes. Whether you're sipping on chamomile tea, placing tulips on your desk, or enjoying a bouquet just because, it all adds up. Flowers are nature’s way of nurturing us, inside and out. At Julie’s Flowers, we’re proud to offer bouquets that not only look stunning but also support your mental and emotional wellbeing. From calming rose arrangements to vibrant sunflowers, we’ve got something for every mood and moment. Order online today for same day delivery before 2pm across Newcastle, from Gosforth to Tynemouth, and Sunderland, from Cleadon Village to South Shields. Related Articles Bring Good Luck into Your New Home with Fresh Flowers Which Flowers Bloom in Spring? Predicting 2025's Wedding Flower Bouquet Trends