5 Benefits of Indoor Plants

House plants have been a huge part of our lives, right from when the early Greeks and Romans began bringing their beloved plants in from the outdoors.

Even the Victorians loved their potted plants and let’s face it, the 70s wouldn’t have been the same without those ferns and spider plants!

Modern style dictates that we should be a little lighter with our green things though and this means sculptural stems rule the roost but are there other benefits to houseplants than a nice looking living room?

More than just part of the home décor, indoor plants have a number of health benefits that can really work wonders for you and your family. Want to know more? Here are five little know health benefits that adding some foliage to your home could bring.

1. They help us to breathe

If you’re going to get your plants by post, remember they’re literally a lifesaver. How? By helping us to breathe of course!

When we inhale we bring oxygen into our body, releasing carbon dioxide as we exhale. During photosynthesis, plants do the opposite – absorbing our expelled carbon dioxide and releasing fresh oxygen for us to inhale.

Although most plants will not photosynthesise at night – taking part in normal respiration like us instead – there are a few special exceptions who break this rule. The ever popular orchid is a prime example so why not add it to your bedroom for a fresh night’s sleep?

2. They can prevent illnesses

House plants are also known to take up a large amount of the moisture in the air, increasing the humidity indoors. While this may sound unappealing during the warmer summer months, it can actually be a gift during drier times.

Their activities can actually decrease the chances of dry skin, colds and sore throats due to the way in which they help control the humidity of the air around us.

In turn, this can lower the chances of the flu virus spreading throughout the home – helping you and your family to stay healthier throughout those cold winter months.

3. They keep the air clean and fresh

NASA has spent a lot of time over the years researching the quality of air in sealed environments and what did they find? That plants play a vital role in improving the air quality indoors.

This is simply because their leaves and roots remove trace levels of toxic vapours from inside tightly sealed buildings.

Some plants are naturally better at this than others though and the top ten plants for removing indoor pollutants are: Peace Lily, Golden Pothos, English Ivy, Chrysanthemum, Gerbera Daily, Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, Bamboo Palm, Azalea, Red-Edge Dracaena and Spider Plants.

4. They assist with healing

Have you ever taken some flowers or a plant to a sick relative or friend? Well, you could be doing them more good than merely raising their spirits.

According to a study by Kansas State University, viewing plants after surgery actually leads to improved physiological responses amongst patients. What this means in real terms is lower blood pressure and less anxiety.

Pain levels can also be reduced so if you’re ever feeling under the weather or recovering from an illness or operation at home then make sure you surround yourself with lots of pretty plants!

5. They boost productivity

If your manager brings in a plant for your desk, it can only mean one thing: you’re not working hard enough!

A number of studies have shown that both students and workers are more productive in the presence of plants. According to the study, simply being around nature and plants can improve concentration, memory and retention by up to 20%.

It’s not just the real deals that work though – a Norwegian study also found that having fake or ornamental flowers in the workspace can improve concentration and information retention.

Bringing plants into your life

Now that you know the secret health benefits of having house plants there’s no reason not to ensure you have at least one in every room!

Whether you choose to get your plants delivered or pick them up from your local florist, it’s most definitely time to ensure your home has a beautiful plant to keep your entire family happy, healthy and productive.

And hey, if you have teenagers studying for exams, why not place a lily in their bedroom for good luck? It can’t do any harm and you can get all of the top ten plants for removing air pollutants and improving your health from SerenataFlowers.com.

Serenata Flowers offers a five-star flower delivery service in the UK – take a look at our recent special offers and take advantage of our discount codes to get fresh blooms at unbeatable prices. Free delivery in the UK from Monday to Sunday.