Having houseplants in your home and office not only brightens your spaces but enhances your well-being. This is supported by scientific research, making houseplants a must-have for a cosy winter. Here are our top 8 reasons to fill your space with more greenery this winter!
Studies have found that indoor air quality can be two to five times worse than outdoor air. Houseplants, such as the Snake Plant, Sansevieria, and Peace Lily, Spathiphyllum, help combat this issue by absorbing harmful chemicals and releasing oxygen. A study conducted by the American Society of Horticultural Science found that certain houseplants can remove up to 90% of indoor pollutants in 24 hours (2009).
This resonates with NASA's Clean Air Study (1989), which tested houseplants as natural air filters, finding that they remove common indoor pollutants, such as formaldehyde, benzene, and ammonia, providing fresh, clean air.
The dry, heated air indoors during winter can wreak havoc on our skin and respiratory health. Houseplants release moisture through a process called transpiration, increasing humidity levels and making the air more comfortable. Research from the University of Technology in Sydney found that indoor plants can increase humidity levels by up to 5% (2012).
Research suggests that improved air quality and humidity provided by houseplants can help prevent winter illnesses, ensuring you stay healthy and robust during the cold season. A study published in the journal ‘Environmental Health Perspectives’ (2014) discovered that indoor plants can reduce the risk of colds, sore throats, and dry skin by between 23-37%.
A study published in the ‘Journal of Physiological Anthropology’ (2004) found that interacting with indoor plants can reduce stress levels. The presence of plants can lead to lower blood pressure and reduced cortisol levels, helping you stay calm and relaxed during winter.
Research from the University of Exeter (2014) shows that the introduction of plants in the office can boost productivity by 15%. This is a significant benefit for those who work from home during winter. The research attributes this increase in productivity to the improved air quality and increased satisfaction of employees and occupants.
Plants like the Boston Fern, Nephrolepsis, can significantly improve indoor air quality. As air quality improves, so does brain function, enhancing cognitive skills, making houseplants an excellent companion for creative winter endeavours. A study from the University of Michigan (2008) found that cognitive performance and memory retention improve by up to 20% in the presence of plants.
The presence of houseplants can stimulate creativity and problem-solving skills, according to a study by the Royal College of Agriculture in Cirencester. The researchers found that people working in offices with plants were 45% more creative and innovative in their tasks (1996).
Houseplants can absorb and diffuse sound, making your indoor spaces quieter and more peaceful. During winter, when you might spend more time indoors, this benefit is particularly valuable. Research from the National Institute of Agricultural Research in France (2004) demonstrated that plants can reduce noise levels by up to five decibels.
Houseplants are natural mood elevators. A study in the ‘Journal of Environmental Psychology’ (2019) found that having plants around can reduce feelings of anxiety, depression and general negativity. The research concluded that the psychological benefits of indoor plants are significant, leading to improved mental well-being.
As you prepare for winter, consider adding a variety of houseplants to your surroundings. These green companions are not only beautiful for their aesthetic appeal, bringing a touch of nature to your home or office, but also offer a multitude of benefits for your well-being and productivity, backed by extensive scientific research.
Embrace the green this winter and let your indoor jungle thrive!