As a dietician, I always encourage my clients to look for ways to promote their health and well-being. One surprising recommendation I often make is to bring more greenery into their homes in the form of indoor plants. Indoor plants not only add a touch of beauty to a living space but offer numerous health benefits. I have experienced the positive impact of indoor plants at home. I feel a sense of calm and tranquillity whenever I look at my vibrant green pothos or blooming peace lily. It’s as if they have the power to soothe my mind and spirit and benefit my physical health. In this article, I’ll share with you some of the ways indoor plants can promote your well-being and how you can incorporate them into your home, including the NASA-recommended indoor plant.
Indoor Plants Beneficial for Health
Indoor plants are natural air purifiers and can help improve air quality by removing harmful toxins and pollutants. These toxins include formaldehyde, benzene, and ammonia, commonly found in household items such as carpets, furniture, and cleaning products. In addition to removing toxins from the air, indoor plants can also increase humidity levels, which can help prevent respiratory illnesses such as dry coughs, sore throats, and dry skin.
Indoor plants can provide numerous mental health benefits, including stress relief, improved mood, and increased productivity. Studies have shown that simply being in the presence of indoor plants can reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. Indoor plants release oxygen and regulate humidity levels, which helps to create a calming and peaceful environment. Some of the best indoor plants for stress relief include lavender, jasmine, and snake plants.
Certain indoor plants have natural healing properties that can help alleviate common ailments. Aloe vera can help soothe burns and skin irritations, while eucalyptus can help ease congestion and sinus problems. Additionally, indoor plants can provide physical health benefits such as improved concentration, reduced fatigue, and enhanced cognitive function.
Indoor gardening is another way to incorporate indoor plants into daily life and reap their numerous benefits. Indoor gardening can relieve stress, improve air quality, and promote sustainability. It can also be a fun and rewarding hobby that encourages creativity and self-expression. Additionally, indoor gardening can help reduce carbon dioxide levels in the home, leading to a more sustainable and eco-friendly living environment.
NASA Recommended Indoor Plants for Better Health
NASA conducted a study on indoor plants and found that some varieties can purify the air by removing toxins such as benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. Household cleaners, building materials, and other everyday products often contain these toxins commonly found in indoor spaces. Here are some of the NASA-recommended indoor plants for better health:
1) Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
This plant is known for its ability to purify the air of toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene. It’s easy to care for and can thrive in low-light conditions.
2) Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
This plant also effectively removes formaldehyde and other toxins from the air. It’s an excellent plant for beginners, as it’s low maintenance and can adapt to various lighting conditions.
3) Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum sp.)
The peace lily is known for removing formaldehyde, benzene, and other toxins from the air. It’s a low-maintenance plant that thrives in low to medium-light conditions.
4) Aloe Vera (Aloe vera)
Aloe vera is an excellent skincare plant and helps remove toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene from the air. It’s a low-maintenance plant that thrives in bright, indirect light.
5) English Ivy (Hedera helix)
This plant is known for removing mould from the air. It’s easy to care for and can thrive in low to medium-light conditions.
Including these NASA-recommended indoor plants in your home can improve the air quality and provide numerous health benefits.
Conclusion
Incorporating indoor plants into daily life can provide numerous health benefits, including air purification, stress relief, natural remedies, and sustainability. Whether you add a few plants to your living space or start an indoor garden, indoor plants can promote a healthy and happy living environment. Consider incorporating some of the best indoor plants for these benefits, including the NASA-recommended peace lily, spider plants, rubber plants, and snake plants.
Leave a Reply