Benefits Of Living With Indoor Plants

Can plants really make you happier? Will they really improve your air quality?

The truth is, researchers have found several proven benefits of having plants at home. We have chosen the top five reasons why plants are more than just decoration!

1. Plants can increase happiness, reduce stress and make you sleep better

Caring for a living thing gives you a purpose, and is extremely rewarding. For this reason, plants can decrease negative feelings like loneliness and depression, and make you feel more relaxed.

For example, some studies have shown that hospital patients who have flowers or plants in their room often recover more quickly. It's no coincidence that plants are incredibly beneficial for those who feel lonely or are housebound.

Also, keeping certain plants next to your bed can lead to a more restful sleep. Place a scented plant like Lavender or Jasmine on your bedside table: the soothing smell will induce a state of tranquility that will help you prepare for a good night's sleep.

2. Plants are natural healers

When you can get more sleep and feel more relaxed, your immune system works better. For this reason, your body will fight the viruses much easier.

Also, plants have phytoncides and other airborne chemicals that help reduce the amount of stress you feel throughout the day. When you feel less stressed, your immune system gets a natural boost.

Not to mention medicinal plants – the Aloe Vera plant, for example. Aloe has many healing benefits, and the gel inside its leaves can help heal cuts and soothe burns. The leaves of this super plant can also help to alleviate asthma symptoms by boiling them in water and breathing in the vapor.

3. Plants clean the air so you can breathe easier and live healthier

Plants do the opposite of what we do when we breathe – they take in carbon dioxide and convert it into oxygen. Most plants do this during the day, but some plants – like Sansevieria, Areca Palm and Aloe Vera – release oxygen into the air at night, making them the perfect plants to have in your bedroom while you sleep.

Moreover, NASA carried out a study called the Clean Air Study and discovered that some plants clean the air we breathe by eliminating harmful toxins that plague our indoor spaces. Some of these toxins are formaldehyde (commonly found in tissues, serviettes, wood products and synthetic fabrics), trichloroethylene (found in paint, varnishes and household cleaners), benzene (often found in adhesives, lubricants, vehicle exhausts and detergents), ammonia (found in cleaning products and fertilisers), and xylene (usually found in nail polish, tobacco smoke and paint).

Crispy Wave is one of the plants on the list, together with beautiful plants like Peace Lily, Sansevieria, Golden Pothos, and Aloe Vera.

4. Plants can improve relationships, productivity, and learning abilities

Plants can make you learn about compassion. There's another living thing in your home to care for – you will inevitably end up feeling empathy for your green friend.

Also, plants will help clear your mind when you need to focus by creating a positive workspace. Think about it: when you can't concentrate, it's all about the way your environment is decorated.

Spaces without any form of personalization can be demotivating and dull, while a workspace with many pictures, decorations and plants will give you new inspiration and creativity.

Through plants, you can add color to your workspace or your home, giving your mind the mental boost it needs to improve your productivity.

Consequently, by increasing your focus, productivity, and mental clarity, plants can boost both adults and children learning capabilities.

Because of their calming nature, plants can ease the feeling of insecurity and overwhelm. Looking at plants will make someone feel naturally calmer, improving their ability to master a subject. Adults will have more focus on their work and tasks, while children will find learning the basics easier.

5. Plants provide your home with some natural humidity and some natural scent

The majority of plants release almost all of the water they take in. This is good news for you, as this moisture will improve your air quality and, consequently, your health.

Your body needs the moisture as much as possible – dry air can lead to irritation in the lungs. You don't need to buy a humidifier: your plants will do it all naturally!

Also, choosing a fragrant plant such as Gardenia, Plumeria or Eucalyptus will fill your home with a wonderful fresh smell. You won't need to use artificial air fresheners anymore: scented plants are a natural and chemical-free way to freshen your home!

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