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Plants – Perfect Partners?
Our environment has changed dramatically in recent
years, whereas we genetically have not. People spend a lot of time
indoors at home
or work, or in traffic away from green spaces. Air conditioning,
improved insulation, and energy-saving measures all reduce air exchange,
which can lead to health problems. We are breathing
the same air over and over; but in cities and on busy roads, we
are unlikely to want to bring 'fresh air' inside anyway. In addition,
modern synthetic furnishings, computers and electrical equipment,
and everyday household products such as cleaning material, emit
various harmful gases in small quantities which all contribute
to the recognised "sick building syndrome"
The simple addition of a few houseplants in your
home or office can do a great deal to boost your health and well-being.
Plants live in harmony with humans - we give plants carbon dioxide
when we breathe out, and they give us oxygen through transpiration.
Indoor plants boost oxygen levels and reduce air temperatures, as
well as raising humidity, making it easier to breathe.
Whether in the home or workplace, placing a plant nearby will improve
air quality, reduce temperatures and make people feel happier.
When living plants are present indoors:
Anxiety levels are lowered
People recover from mental tiredness faster
Interiors feel spacious, looked after and clean
People occupy rooms more when plants are there
People perceive interiors as "more expensive" looking
Given a choice, people sit where they
can see plants
(Oxford Brooks University Study 1995 - Jane Stiles)
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