Written By: Alexandria DiPerri
I am sure everyone has seen the trend of hanging up a eucalyptus plant over their shower head! Some people know exactly what is going on here as in the steam from the shower helps release oils from the eucalyptus which can clear nasal congestion or any sinus inflammation…but for those of you that didn’t know here are some other examples of plants that provide a pretty view AND some health benefits!
You can find more information on other plants and their benefits here: https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/ss/slideshow-health-benefits-houseplants
Allergies
Allergies can be tough to handle, and it is not always ideal taking so much medication. For those that love plants they can actually help! Low-light house plants like Chinese Evergreen or the Peace Lily have leaves and other parts that act as natural filters which can catch allergens or other particles within the air. Researchers found that overall, rooms with plants have less dust and mold as opposed to rooms without plants!
Illness
As for illness, furnaces and air conditioners tend to sap the humidity inside. Switching to a spider plant can provide more moisture into the air-especially during the dry winter months-this can prevent catching the flu or a nasty cold. It also helps prevent your skin from getting so dry and itchy!
Air Purifiers
Don’t buy an air purifier, invest in an English Ivy, Asparagus Fern, or a Dragon tree! These plants can soak up volatile organic compounds that are released into the air. Carpet, cleaners, paint and even printer toners and inks pollute the indoors with all of these compounds. If they build up it can irritate your eyes, skin, worsen asthma and even make it more difficult to breathe!
Digestion
Stomach issues such as bloating, gas, or other irritation after eating can be bettered through mint or basil, especially if you steep the leaves in hot water!
Relaxation
Lavender is a pretty commonly known plant, but did you know that they have been used as important herbal medicine for centuries? Inhaling it, or, applying it to skin and scalp as an oil is considered aromatherapy. Boiling the leaves for tea is also effective; it has been shown that Lavender can help lower stress or anxiety.
First Aid
As most people are aware, Aloe can be easily applied to sun burns or other minor burns. And NO we don’t just mean the aloe you buy in a bottle! Aloe plants hide the aloe within themselves as shown in the picture. Aloe plants can also help soothe irritating psoriasis and other skin related conditions.
Sleep
Photosynthesis is the process in which plants take in carbon dioxide and convert it to oxygen using sunlight, however, Gerbera Daisies continue to provide oxygen even after the sun goes down! Putting these in your room can help provide more oxygen which in turn results in a better sleep. As a college student that sounds pretty good to me!