5 Reasons Why Plants Are Important to Us

1) Plants Clean the Air

Plants clean the air by releasing oxygen through the process of photosynthesis. The more green and flowering plants we have, the better our air quality becomes. For example, researchers at NASA found that in a greenhouse with plants and no humans, CO2 levels dropped from 2000 parts per million (ppm) to 600 ppm over the course of one day. In contrast, in an office with humans but no plants, CO2 levels were only reduced from 1800 ppm to 1700 ppm.

2) Plants Reduce Noise Pollution

Noise pollution is a significant issue in large cities. With so many people and cars going around, it’s no wonder that the noise can be unbearable. Noise pollution is bad for our physical health as well, since studies have shown that it causes high blood pressure and stress. One way to fight this problem is by planting trees and shrubs near busy intersections or other areas where there are many people, such as parks and schools.

3) Plants Help Us Concentrate

 

 

 

 

We all know that plants are important for the environment, but there are other benefits too. Plants can help us concentrate. Well, a new study found that people who were in an office with green plants on their desks had better concentration and focus than people who were in offices without any plants. The study also found that the more diverse the plant life, the better the workers’ performance. This is because different types of plants release chemicals that help boost brain function and productivity.

What do you think?

4) Plants Boost Our Moods

It’s a known fact that plants provide us with oxygen, and that’s important for our health. But did you know that plants also can have a positive effect on our moods? Studies have shown that people in hospital rooms with more plants tend to have lower rates of depression and anxiety, are less likely to need pain medication, and recover faster from surgery.

5)  Plants Improve Our Health

Plants are the base of our food chain and without them, life would not exist on Earth. They are a natural source of food and provide a variety of health benefits. Here are five reasons why plants are important to us:

-Plants improve our health by providing high levels of antioxidants, which can protect against heart disease and cancer. -They also contain folate, which helps support healthy brain function. -Some plants can even lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of stroke.

6) Plants are essential to medicine

Most medicines we use today have origins in plant life. Aspirin is one of the most famous. For centuries, people used willow bark for its salicylic acid, a chemical that relieved fever and pain. In 1763, a cleric isolated the active ingredient, which eventually led to the creation of the aspirin we know today. Several plant extracts are also used in cancer drugs such as Paclitaxel, which is derived from the bark of the Pacific yew tree. Countless other plants are used in natural medicine, as well.

7)  Plants improve mental health

Studies show that plant life has a positive impact on the human mind. This is especially true in urban environments where people feel disconnected from nature. Cultivating green in these spaces through public parks, trees, and houseplants is shown to improve people’s well-being by reducing stress and anxiety. The theory that humans are naturally drawn to nature and therefore happier around it is called “biophilia.” Biologist Edward O. Wilson coined this term in the 1980s and it’s since inspired designs for homes, offices, and more.

Enjoyed this article? Stay informed by joining our newsletter!

Comments

You must be logged in to post a comment.

About Author