When you look at the title of this article, are green vegetables and salads the first things that are called to mind? Indeed, greens in your diet is good for health. However, veggy-haters need not despair, because using greens to improve your health is not limited to your diet, it extends to your surroundings as well.
Most of us keep our windows closed even when we are at home to keep out haze and dust. However, this results in the air indoors becoming very stuffy and humid, and we end up having to resort to switching on the fan or airconditioning despite a nice breeze blowing outside.
In 1989, a study conducted by NASA showed that indoor plants can remove air pollutants. Chemicals found in the air are absorbed by the roots, leaves, soil and micro-organisms to degrade the chemicals. This study showed that by adding a potted plant for every 100 square foot of space in your home or office, you can significantly reduce the level of air pollutants. The more plants there are, the cleaner the air becomes!
According to Plant Culture and research by the International Society of Arboriculture, the addition of indoor plants to an office resulted in less stress and a 12% increase in productivity among workers. This is because common chemicals found in our air include benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene which can cause symptoms such as irritation of the mucus membranes, weakness, headaches and loss of appetite, which in turn contribute to stress and decrease in productivity. Prolongued excesssive exposure to such pollutants can even lead to liver and kidney damage and cancer. Plants purify the air of these chemicals, consequently helping to decrease stress and increase productivity!
Some plants have better detoxifying effects than others. Top plants for pollutant removal include aloe, spider plants, orchids, pothos, poinsettias, English ivy, philodendron and lilies.
You do not need to have green fingers to care for plants. Many indoor plants are small, affordable, and easy to maintain. They can be conveniently purchased at departmental stores and supermarkets like Cold Storage, Carrefour and Ikea. For more varieties and special breeds, try local nurseries and florists. You may even purchase them online as some nurseries have websites and delivery services.
Caring for your plants and watching them grow and blossom can be a therapeutic activity. In addition, plants also beautify and brighten up your home and office, and have a soothing effect on the eyes. You can never go wrong with some green in your life!
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