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| Houseplants contribute to cleaner air and overall wellness. |
Right now in your home, at least three carcinogenic chemicals are polluting the air you breathe. Benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene are frequently used in the manufacturing of common household items such as furniture, flooring and decorative accessories. The materials, paints, glues, and finishes used to make synthetic substances can emit toxins into the air, sometimes for several years. This process is known as off-gassing. Indoor plants can fight the harmful effects of off-gassing. Some plants are able to remove up to 90% of the toxic chemicals in the air in only one day. But cleaner air isn’t the only benefit or growing plants indoors.
Breathe Easier
In addition to cleansing the air of toxins, houseplants produce oxygen. Humans release carbon dioxide with each exhale, and through photosynthesis, plants turn that potentially dangerous gas into the oxygen our bodies need to be healthy.
Prevent Illness
Through a process known as transpiration, houseplants naturally raise humidity levels inside the home. More humidity may decrease the incidence of sore throats, coughs, dry skin and the transmission of the flu virus.
Decrease Stress
A study conducted at Kansas State University found that surgery patients with plants or flowers in their recovery rooms had lower ratings of anxiety, pain, and fatigue as well as lower blood pressure levels.
Increase Productivity
Placing a plant or two in your home office just may help you concentrate and be more productive. According to one study, the presence of plants can increase memory retention. Work performed with plants nearby may be of a higher quality than work completed in an environment completely devoid of nature.
How to Choose and Care for Indoor Plants
To enjoy the greatest health benefits from houseplants, follow these tips:
- Place one 10- to 12-inch potted plant per every 100 square feet of space
- Keep plants healthy by following the recommended watering and feeding schedule for each specimen
- Dust leaves with a damp cloth periodically. Keeping leaves clean will help them absorb more toxins from the air
- Follow the light requirements for each individual plant. Placing a sun-loving specimen in a dark room won’t help you or the plant
- Almost any plant will help you create a healthier home environment, but some are more efficient than others. English ivy, Boston fern, Snake plant, Golden pothos, Spider plant and Wax begonia are among the most highly recommended houseplants
Plants make an attractive an inexpensive addition to any decor. Most houseplants are easy to care for and require little maintenance. But keep in mind that some houseplants are toxic to children and pets. Check with your nurseryman or do a little research online to avoid problems.
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