My girlfriend says I would be healthier if I had more indoor plants in my home. Is it true that plants provide health benefits?
Yes, plants do provide several health benefits. The most basic is that they increase the oxygen level. Plants absorb carbon dioxide and give off oxygen. In these days of carefully sealed and insulated homes to reduce heating costs, we cut off the supply of outside air. This reduces the supply of oxygen.
Plants and the soil they are growing in also absorb many other pollutants. Our furnishings absorb and give off toxic gases from the materials such as adhesives that are used in their manufacture. We bring in substances with our feet that are absorbed by carpets. Mold can develop when leaky pipes produce wet conditions inside walls or under the house. Toxic mold spores can find their way inside the home. The combination of oxygen shortage and other contaminants can cause fatigue, congestion and even depression.
Our plants also bring in a sense of nature. People are more comfortable and even work more efficiently in a more natural environment. Taking care of plants is a release and a distraction from worry about other kinds of problems. Plants are quite economical compared to other furnishings. As they grow and change they add value.
