Does Having Plants at Home Help You Better Recover from COVID-19?
The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped our lives in numerous ways, leading many to seek out methods to improve their health and well-being during recovery. One intriguing idea is the potential benefits of having plants at home. Can indoor greenery actually aid in the recovery from COVID-19? Let’s explore the science behind plants and their positive effects on health.
1. Improving Air Quality
Plants are natural air purifiers. They absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen through the process of photosynthesis, and some plants can also remove toxins from the air. Clean air is crucial for lung health, especially for those recovering from a respiratory illness like COVID-19.
•Key Plants: Spider plants, snake plants, and peace lilies are particularly effective at improving indoor air quality.
•Data: A NASA study found that plants like the peace lily and snake plant can remove up to 87% of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air in 24 hours .
2. Boosting Mental Health
Recovering from COVID-19 can be stressful and emotionally taxing. Plants have been shown to have a calming effect, reducing stress and anxiety levels. The presence of greenery can also boost mood and overall mental well-being.
•Research Findings: A study published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology found that interaction with indoor plants can reduce physiological and psychological stress by suppressing autonomic nervous system activity and lowering blood pressure .
•Data: Participants in a study reported a 37% reduction in anxiety and a 58% increase in positive feelings when surrounded by plants .
3. Enhancing Humidity
Indoor plants release moisture into the air through a process called transpiration. This can help maintain optimal humidity levels in your home, which is beneficial for respiratory health. Proper humidity levels can alleviate dry throat and nasal passages, common issues during illness.
•Key Plants: Ferns, peace lilies, and areca palms are excellent for increasing indoor humidity.
•Data: Research by the Agricultural University of Norway found that indoor plants can increase humidity levels by up to 5%, which can help prevent dry skin, colds, sore throats, and dry coughs .
4. Promoting Physical Recovery
Having plants in the recovery environment can encourage a sense of purpose and routine. The act of caring for plants—watering, pruning, and observing their growth—can be therapeutic and provide a gentle form of physical activity, promoting overall recovery.
•Therapeutic Benefits: Horticultural therapy, which involves gardening activities, has been shown to improve physical and psychological health.
•Data: A study from Kansas State University found that patients in hospital rooms with plants and flowers had lower systolic blood pressure and reported lower levels of pain, anxiety, and fatigue compared to those in rooms without plants .
5. Improving Sleep Quality
Good sleep is essential for recovery from any illness, including COVID-19. Certain plants can enhance the quality of sleep by releasing oxygen at night and creating a calming bedroom environment.
•Key Plants: Lavender, jasmine, and snake plants are known for their sleep-enhancing properties.
•Data: A study by the University of Southampton showed that the scent of lavender can improve sleep quality by 20% .
6. Reducing Fatigue
The presence of plants in your home can help reduce fatigue and increase energy levels. The visual appeal of greenery can make indoor spaces more inviting and stimulating, helping you feel more energized and less fatigued during your recovery.
•Energy Boost: Studies suggest that viewing plants can reduce mental fatigue and improve concentration and productivity.
•Data: Research published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology indicates that interacting with nature, including indoor plants, can lead to a 15% increase in feelings of vitality and energy .
Practical Tips for Incorporating Plants into Your Recovery Space
To maximize the benefits of plants during your recovery from COVID-19, consider the following tips:
•Choose Low-Maintenance Plants: Opt for plants that are easy to care for, such as snake plants, ZZ plants, and pothos, especially if you have limited energy.
•Place Plants Strategically: Position plants in areas where you spend the most time, such as your bedroom, living room, and home office.
•Use MyFarm’s Smart Pots: MyFarm’s smart pots are designed to optimize plant care with features like self-watering and efficient drainage, making it easier to maintain healthy plants with minimal effort.
•Create a Green Space: Dedicate a specific area of your home to plants, creating a small indoor garden that can serve as a tranquil retreat.
Conclusion
While plants alone cannot cure COVID-19, they can certainly play a supportive role in your recovery journey. By improving air quality, boosting mental health, enhancing humidity, promoting physical recovery, improving sleep quality, and reducing fatigue, plants can contribute to a healthier and more pleasant living environment. Embrace the healing power of nature and consider adding some greenery to your home to aid in your recovery from COVID-19.
References:
1.Wolverton, B.C., Johnson, A., & Bounds, K. (1989). Interior landscape plants for indoor air pollution abatement. NASA.
2.Lee, M.S., Lee, J., Park, B.J., & Miyazaki, Y. (2015). Interaction with indoor plants may reduce psychological and physiological stress by suppressing autonomic nervous system activity in young adults: a randomized crossover study. Journal of Physiological Anthropology, 34, 21.
3.Kaplan, R. (2001). The Nature of the View from Home: Psychological Benefits. Environment and Behavior, 33(4), 507-542.
4.Fjeld, T. (2000). The Effect of Interior Planting on Health and Discomfort among Workers and School Children. HortTechnology, 10(1), 46-52.
