It’s all over social media. Even the biggest stars are enjoying their time with their plants at home. The plant craze is more than just a trend. Whether you like to DIY or need the help of tree care specialists, injecting greenery into your home can do more than just increasing your home’s value. They also help improve your physical and mental health. Here are some benefits of injecting greenery into your home.
- Being around plants can reduce stress.
Studies show that having plants in your home can help you feel more at ease. They help keep down your physiological and psychological stress levels. In an experiment, people were asked to repot a plant and complete a computer-based task. After completion of the tasks, their heart rate and blood pressure levels are measured. The results show that the gardening task drastically lowered the participants’ stress responses. On the other hand, the computer-based task spiked their heart rate and blood pressure levels. Hence, being around greenery can help people feel more peaceful.
- Plants can sharpen your memory.
Plants can help people boost their memory and focus. Some studies show how the calming effects of greenery help people perform better and more accurately. Being around nature can also improve memory retention and attention span.
- Plants are therapeutic for people with symptoms of mental health issues
A good way to help people with mental illnesses recover and ease their symptoms is to do indoor gardening. Many mental health professionals suggest horticultural therapy, which can increase the well-being of people with dementia, depression, and anxiety, among other conditions.
- Some plants can help treat injuries.
Looking at plants can help one recover faster from an illness or an injury. According to a study, people who can look at flowers and plants recuperate faster and needed less pain medication than those who cannot view greenery as they recover. This is why many hospitals have gardens, and some rooms have overlooking greenery views. Hence, recovering patients who have plants at home can feel better in less time.
Moreover, many indoor plants can be used to treat injuries and physical discomforts. Aloe vera is a popular plant that is used to soothe burns and heal cuts. It also works for easing asthma attacks and other infections. Eucalyptus, just like aloe, is another traditional plant used for treating burns, herpes, wounds, and insect bites. Both aloe vera and eucalyptus plants are used for various skincare products for their soothing effects.
- Plants help people sleep better.
Sleep is important for your well-being. A good night’s rest can help you feel alert, healthy, and relaxed. Moreover, restful sleep also boosts your immune system. Many indoor plants help you sleep better. Lavender and jasmine have vapors that can help you feel calmer and prepared for bed. These plants can also boost your mood.
- Indoor plants can improve your home’s air quality.
Indoor air quality is important, especially in the age of coronavirus. Many health issues can stem from having bad indoor air quality like asthma and other respiratory illnesses. This is why many homeowners invest in high-tech air purifiers to improve their air quality.
Yet, many plants also offer air purifying effects that modern technologies have. Houseplants like ferns, rubber trees, spider plants, and bamboo palms are great for air clearing. They are also easy to maintain.
Indoor plants can also moisturize the air. Many plants help saturate the air with moisture, which is great for colder temperatures. Succulents also help the air by accumulating water and producing moisture.
What to consider when bringing home plants
Plants offer great benefits. However, bringing home too much can pose some risks. Here are things to keep in mind when choosing plants for your home.
- Choose pet- and child-friendly plants. While many plants are harmless, there are also toxic plants. Some poisonous plants can be attractive but are actually lethal. Before bringing plants at home, check if your plants are safe for kids and pets.
- Be wary of possible pest infestations. Houseplants can be a target for molds, insects, and pests. When selecting plants, ask about their watering needs. Overwatering can trigger conditions that encourage fungus and mold growth. Check their leaves, too, for signs of infestations.
- Watch out for plants that can trigger allergies. Asthma or allergy symptoms can be worsened by pollen. It is best to choose plants or flowers that do not produce such. If you notice that you have experienced symptoms after bringing plants into your home, it would be better to remove them immediately.
Having plants indoors can relieve stress, boost productivity, and help you feel better overall. They can also improve air quality and recovery. Yet, it is important to choose the right plants to take home, especially if you have considerations like kids, pets, and other health conditions that can be triggered by pollen. Not all plants are the same, and it pays to be informed.
