by Stephanie A. Smith

Created on: June 12, 2009   Last Updated: September 21, 2010

Every home has pollution in it. It is in the glues, paints, carpets, and upholstery we use. Pets make the problem worse, dragging allergens in from outside. Indoor pollution can be worse than the pollution found outside in times of great temperature extremes (Summer and Winter, for example).

 Indoor pollutants can slow the healing of problems such as respiratory infections and colds. Pollutants can also trigger asthma attacks and allergies.

 So how do we combat this problem?

 Plants are the perfect natural solution.

 Plants filter the air in your home, removing the carbon dioxide and other harmful chemicals and replacing them with oxygen. Some plants, such as the much loved spider plant, perform better than others, but any plant will be an improvement over none.

 One extreme example of the benefits of plants indoors is in the fact that they will be needed to establish a long term colony on the Moon or Mars. Many of the plants will be used for food purposes, but there will need to be decorative plants as well to produce enough oxygen to supply 100% of the colonists' needs.

 Here on Earth, such extremes are not needed. As little as a single plant in each room will provide health benefits to the inhabitants. And not just in terms of air quality.

 Most people feel a little less stressed out when surrounded by nature. This could be because of the colors. It is proven that certain colors have a calming effect on people. Plants also have a healing effect on some people. Several studies have shown that people exposed to plants tend to heal faster, have less complications associated with post operation, and even tend to take fewer or less potent painkillers. Some of this may be due to the reduced stress level mentioned above.

 A lot of plants are useful as well. One instance is the Aloe Vera plant. Its meat help wounds heal faster, and it is used in hand soaps as a soothing agent. Another instance is herbs. Herbs are not only used for cooking, many also have healing properties as well, which is why they are still used in poultices.

 Most herbs are also aromatic, replacing the need for air freshener. Having any plant around can make your home smell much better- even the least aromatic ones. This is due to the removal of indoor air pollutants.

 So where do you keep these plants? Herbs are best kept on the window sills in your kitchen, for ease of use. Most people keep trees in the corner of a room, but it may be a better idea to keep a tree closer to the middle of a wall, where it can get more light. Potted plants can be set anywhere, based on their size. A large plant can be placed next to a chair. Smaller plants are best kept on a table or in a window sill. And of course, most plants can be hung almost anywhere.

 No matter what types of plants you choose, keeping a few of them in your home will make a difference in the health and happiness of the inhabitants.

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