If you’re a plant lover with a house displaying a multitude of colours stemming from the many interesting and beautiful houseplants one can keep, you don’t need convincing. For everyone else, you’ll probably head to the nearest nursery immediately after reading this article. When we think of plants, we often only consider the aesthetic benefits relating to the pretty shades, but there’s a lot more to be said about health, allergens, and indoor air quality.
In this article, we will explore how houseplants can improve indoor air quality and enhance overall well-being. More specifically, we’ll highlight their natural air purification abilities and the positive impact they have on our mental and physical health. Get ready to go plant shopping!
Houseplants and Indoor Air Quality
Indoor air quality is one of the most important contributors to quality of life. The air we breathe indoors can sometimes be more polluted than the air outside if our home cleaning and organisation schedules aren’t up to scratch. Houseplants improve indoor air quality in a number of different ways. Let’s look at the benefits below.
1. Natural Air Purification
Houseplants have the remarkable ability to absorb and remove toxins from the air and release oxygen through the process of photosynthesis. Their natural air purifying abilities help to remove harmful substances such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, and benzene.
Recommended plants for air purification: Spider Plant, Snake Plant, and Peace Lily.
2. Humidity Regulation
Optimal humidity levels indoors are one of the main factors for good standards of respiratory health. Indoor air that is too dry can cause discomfort, exacerbate respiratory conditions, and increase the chances of infections. Houseplants play a role in regulating humidity by releasing moisture through the process of transpiration.
Recommended plants for increased indoor humidity: Boston Fern, Areca Palm, and English Ivy.
3. Oxygen Production
Houseplants don’t only remove toxins, they also increase oxygen levels indoors. Oxygen, as we all know, supports brain function, metabolism, and overall vitality, so a few plants go a long way in contributing to our health.
Recommended plants for oxygen production: Snake Plant, Aloe Vera, and Gerbera Daisy.
Houseplants and Well-being
The abilities of houseplants extend further than the reaches of improving indoor air quality, and also into the idea of boosting our well-being. Let’s explore some of the ways they can enhance our overall quality of life.
1. Stress Reduction
Surrounding ourselves with greenery can create a calming and relaxing environment. Studies have shown that exposure to plants has a positive impact on stress levels, blood pressure, and the feeling of tranquility.
Recommended plants for a serene atmosphere: Lavender, Jasmine, and Aloe Vera.
2. Improved Focus and Productivity
Whether it’s studying or working, we all know how the distractions of the world pose a problem to desired productivity. Having houseplants in our workspaces and study areas can positively impact these tasks. Research has indicated that the presence of greenery can increase attention spans and cognitive performance.
Recommended plants for boosted efficiency: Golden Pothos, Chinese Evergreen, and Peace Lily.
3. Aesthetics and Mood Enhancement
Aside from the benefits of improved air quality and better well-being, houseplants also add aesthetic appeal to our indoor spaces. The visual presence of plants and nature has been linked to improved mood and mental health. Studies aside, try placing a few colourful plants around your home, and you’ll instantly feel the difference.
Recommended plants for an uplifting atmosphere: Orchids, African Violets, and Anthuriums.
Conclusion
Houseplants are much more than mere decorations; they have tangible and proven benefits for our health and well-being. The reasoning given above should be a clear indication of just how much houseplants can improve our lives. Once you’ve given some houseplants a new home in your home, don’t forget to take care of them appropriately.
If you need help taking care of the rest of your home, look no further than a SweepSouth cleaning service. The large variety of experienced and vetted SweepStars you’ll have access to means your home will always be happy, healthy, and well looked after.
