How Plants Improve Your Physical Health
Can simply owning plants actually have an effect on your physical health?
You may have heard the fact that plants and humans have a symbiotic relationship in that, they give us oxygen and we give them carbon dioxide. Well, there are many other physical benefits plants bring us other than giving us oxygen.
1. Purifies the Air
In a famous NASA experiment published in 1989, researchers found that indoor plants can scrub the air of cancer-causing volatile organic compounds like formaldehyde and benzene. --- I know what you're thinking, "Okay that's cool but last time I checked I don't have formaldehyde in my bedroom."
Think again.
Household items that contain formaldehyde:
* For more information regarding products that contain formaldehyde and other harmful chemicals check out https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/understanding_skin_deep_ratings/
Now that we've established the toxic chemicals in the air, here is a graph showing the results of the NASA Clean Air study.
Low Concentrations of Toxic Chemicals High Concentrations of Toxic Chemicals
Source: NASA Clean Air Study
NASA recommends 2 decent size plants per every 100 square ft to achieve optimal air conditions.
Not only do plants purify the air of any toxic chemicals, they can also promote effective sleep by lowering blood pressure and anxiety. A study done by Sichuan Agricultural University shows that simply looking at a pot of bamboo for 3 minutes can have a relaxing effect on adults and promote restful sleep.
"Certain plants, like peace lilies, snake plants, and spider plants, are particularly effective at filtering toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide from the air, making them beneficial for people with respiratory conditions. Living with houseplants has also been linked to lower blood pressure, reduced fatigue, and improved concentration. Those who benefit the most include individuals with asthma or allergies, as well as the elderly, who may spend more time indoors and benefit from better air quality and a more calming environment."
2. Lowers Allergy Symptoms & Adds Moisture to the Air
If you struggle with allergies, you might want to ditch the inhaler and try getting a plant. Researchers found that rooms with plants have less dust and mold than rooms without any foliage. Leaves and other parts of the plants act as natural filters to catch allergens and other airborne particles that can make you sick. Houseplants also help add moisture to the air which is important especially during winter seasons. Things like furnaces and air conditioners can suck up the humidity indoors, raising your chances for catching a cold or the flu, or making your skin itch.
"Owning houseplants can significantly improve our physical health, especially for those with chronic pain, breathing issues, or mobility concerns. Plants like peace lilies and snake plants purify the air, benefiting those with asthma or allergies."
Paul Roscioli, Chiropractic Physician, Owner, Main Line Disc
So grab one of these plants and watch your allergy symptoms fade away:
Bamboo Palm
Not only does the Bamboo Palm provide beautiful foliage for your home, but it's also famous for being able to grow in almost all types of light conditions (expect for direct sun). However, note that this plant can grow up to 10 ft tall so if you don't have the space for it you can try some of these other plants.
English Ivy
Dracaena
This is one of the plants NASA recommends for air quality. This plant is famous for trapping allergens inside its leaves and adding moisture to the air.
Chinese Evergreen
This beautiful plant can grow in pretty much all light conditions and prefers humidity but can tolerate dry indoor air. Under proper care, these plants can live for up to 10 years!
3. Plants Can Prolong Your Life
Well, owning houseplants doesn't guarantee you will live until 100 but the cleaner air, noise buffering effects of large plants, and the opportunity for physical activity such as gardening are the elements that contribute to a prolonged life.
However, NASA concluded that women who live among plants live longer by 12% than those who don’t. It was also found that women living in the greenest areas had a 34% lower rate of death related to respiratory diseases and women’s deaths from cancer were 13% lower in homes where there was plenty of contact with trees and plants.
"Natural elements like plants, water features, or wooden textures activate relaxation responses, lowering stress hormones like cortisol. Even simple changes, like incorporating houseplants, using natural materials like wood and stone, or adding nature-inspired decor, can bring these benefits. Biophilic design not only beautifies a home but also promotes mental well-being by bridging the gap between our indoor lives and the natural world."
Tansha Casarez, Founder & Lead Visionary, HER BALANCED WORLD
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