Benefits of indoor gardening
Indoor plants, are you a Yay or Nay?
After reading this article you are definitely going to be a Yay!
If you’re looking for that secret ingredient that can instantly make any room look better, you can stop searching! Indoor plants are making a huge comeback, becoming the flavor of the season. We are yet to meet anyone who can resist the charm of a good interior trend. Whether you want a splash of healthy green or a Scandi theme, indoor plants instantly lifts a space, making any room feel fresh and welcoming.
FRESH AIR
Strategically take advantage of your new indoor greenery by reaping its health benefits – even NASA is on board!
In 2015 NASA conducted a Clean Air Study to identify the best way to clean the air in space stations. Their study found certain plants are most effective against removing airborne chemicals such as benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, xylene, and ammonia. As difficult as these chemicals are to pronounce, they have been linked to common health effects such as headaches and eye irritations. Quick get me a plant!
The spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is on NASA’s list and ours. A very popular indoor plant cleans the air in your house of organic chemicals emitted into the air by furniture, carpets, and common household appliances.
The Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum ‘Mauna Loa’), what can’t this plant do? Other than being one of our top picks for low maintenance plants, the Peace Lily removes toxins ranging from tobacco smoke, to paint, and synthetic fabrics, causing nausea, mouth and throat irritation, and increased risk of heartache.
NATURAL HEALERS
The Australian life does have its perks, with every town only a few hours away from the beach. However there is a downside, every now and again, we tend to suffer from a bad case of sunburn.
The Aloe Vera Plant (Aloe barberae), is the plant of immortality and healing. Its magical properties stems from the gel inside the leaf. Not only is it effective against burns and cuts, this super plant also helps alleviate symptoms of asthma by boiling the leaves in water and breathing the vapour.
BREATHE EASY MY FRIEND
The Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Laurentii’) are among the easiest houseplants to grow and a great choice for forgetful owners. Its stiff upright leaves make a statement in any room. This unique plant takes in carbon dioxide and releases oxygen into the air during the day and night. To get optimum benefits from this plant, place it within your breathing zone – two square meters around where you normally sit or sleep.
NATURAL HUMIDIFIERS
Plants release roughly 97 percent of the water they take in. If you suffer from dry skin or are in a constantly dry environment, and want to keep your respiratory distress at bay, get yourself a Areca Palm (Chrysalidocarpus lutescens), also known as the Butterfly or Golden Cane Palm. This plant, along with other indoor flora and fauna are effective for colds, sore throat and dry coughs. The Areca Palm is also a great plant to make your home feel like a tropical paradise.
LONG NIGHT REST
Getting the recommended eight-hours of sleep can be difficult at time with your mind always working. Naturopaths recommend essential oils from lavender (Lavandula) and jasmine (Jasminum) to relieve the stress and help you get a better night’s rest. Studies have shown that the vapour from these plants can lead to a more restful sleep because the smell from these plants induce a state of tranquility that will help you prepare for a good night’s sleep. Let me get my meditation CD’s out!
Channel your inner Martha Stewart and get redecorating with your top favourite indoor plants. Not only will this process lighten up your home and redesign your life, it will also bring a breath of fresh air (literally!).
