An indoor Garden enhances more than just the decor.

Having pretty plants in your home is a nice perk of indoor gardening, but research suggests that maintaining them can boost your health, too. "Gardening has been shown in multiple studies to be associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline or dementia in older adult", says David Carr, M.D., a professor of geriatric medicine at Washington University in St. Lous. "Plants help you become more competent and give you something meaningful to do and take care of," notes Patty Cassidy, a registered horticulture therapist. Try these:

• Peace Lilies - They help to purify air, removing toxins such as trichloroethylene, found in paint and varnish.
• Orchids - These are good gifts for hospital patients. Seeing plants during recovery can reduce pain and anxiety.
• Rosemary - The scent of this herb may assist with memory by increasing neurotransmitter called acetylcholine.
• Lavender - Grow this plant in your bedroom, as it's said to improve sleep quality and promote relaxation.
• Spider Plants - These hardy plants can help to remove formaldehyde from your home's air.