Houseplants have been trending for quite some time now. Everywhere you look you’ll see beautiful arrangements on Instagram, in magazines, online, and even on TV. They are a decorator’s go-to house accessory to create the most gorgeous space. Just by adding a bit of greenery, it can transform the look of a room and liven it up completely.
Not only are they beautiful to look at and add personality to a space, but they can also improve our health and boost our environment to help us heal. Here’s why:
- They purify the air – As humans, we inhale oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide…Plants do the opposite. Instead of taking in oxygen they release it and instead absorb carbon dioxide, which increases oxygen levels within a space. Plants also help rid the air of common toxins and pollutants such as formaldehyde, acetone, benzene, and more.
- Can boost your mental well-being – A study was completed to confirm this finding, and it appears to be true. Plants were placed throughout common areas of a heart and lung rehab center in Norway, and patients reported an increase in well-being within four weeks, which is much sooner than those in other centers without plants.
- Can help deter illness – Plants can add moisture to the air in a process known as transpiration. Studies have shown that this moisture that plants give off keeps dry skin, colds, sore throats and dry coughs away. Higher humidity also decreases the survival rate and transmission of flu viruses.
- Boost healing – Studies have shown that plants can promote healing. One study examined the recovery rate of surgical patients and saw that patients with plants had a lower systolic blood pressure and lower ratings of pain, anxiety, and fatigue compared to those who did not have household plants.
- Increases productivity – Studies have shown that plants can increase concentration, memory, and productivity. This can be due to a cleaner environment, better air quality, or organic chemicals plants give off.
So next time you go to water your houseplants, thank them for all that they do to keep us healthy and vibrant!
Hello Health 