With the stunning array of both real and faux plants available now, it’s not surprising they are very much on trend. Bring a little of the outdoor in and add some greenery / colour to your home!
Real plants not only look great; they also have several health benefits too:
1. They assist with breathing
Inhaling brings oxygen into the body, exhaling releases carbon dioxide. During photosynthesis, plants do the opposite, of sorts: They absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, making plants and people great partners when it comes to gasses. Plants help to increase oxygen levels, and our bodies appreciate that.
2. They help deter illness
In the great outdoors, plant roots tap the groundwater table for water which then evaporates through its leaves in a process known as transpiration. Studies show that this accounts for about 10 percent of the moisture in the atmosphere! The same thing happens at home (minus the groundwater table part), which increases the humidity indoors. While this may sound unappealing during hotter months, it’s a gift during drier months.
3. They clean the air
The top 10 plants for removing indoor pollutants are:
- Peace lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii)
- Golden pothos (Scindapsus aures)
- English ivy (Hedera helix)
- Chrysanthemum (Chrysantheium morifolium)
- Gerbera daisy (Gerbera jamesonii)
- Mother-in-law’s tongue (Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Laurentii’)
- Bamboo palm (Chamaedorea sefritzii)
- Azalea (Rhododendron simsii)
- Red-edge dracaena (Dracaena marginata)
- Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Did you know that NASA researchers recommend one potted plant per 100 square feet of indoor space!
4. They help you work better
Several studies with both students and workers reveal that studying or working in the presence of plants can have a pretty dramatic effect. As with simply being in nature, being around plants improves concentration, memory and productivity.
Perfect for any home office!