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| Ivy plants for oxygen. |
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| Succulents for oxygen. |
Oxygen. It is an element with the atomic number 8 and represented by the symbol O on the periodic table. In its most stable and useful form two oxygen molecules join together to form dioxygen, O2. Uptake of dioxygen (which we all just commonly refer to as oxygen) from the air is essential to our respiration, to living! We like oxygen. We need oxygen. Let’s fill our homes and offices with awesome life giving oxygen. Let’s go green for oxygen!
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Spider plants are very effective at
removing carbon monoxide from
the air.
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We recently learned that the universal color
for oxygen is green and, being florists totally in love with plants, we find it
no coincidence that most plants are green too. We all remember learning about
photosynthesis in school… plants take in carbon dioxide and water and turn it
into sugars and oxygen. It’s perfect! We exhale carbon dioxide and breathe in
oxygen, plants do the opposite. It’s a wonderful symbiotic relationship that we
have, so it only makes sense that we surround ourselves with these wonderful
creatures. Houseplants do more than just brighten up a room with color and
living energy; along with being pleasing to the eye, they bring real health
benefits to our bodies.  |
Spathiphyllums, commonly
known as peace lilies, are
great for removing carbon
monoxide.
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| Ficus tree, great for removing formaldehyde. |
Some houseplants, such as spider plants and
spathiphyllums (peace lilies), are effective for removing carbon monoxide from indoor
air. Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that when inhaled may result in seizures,
coma, or even death. Spathiphyllums are also the most popular house plant in the US. They give off more oxygen then any other houseplant, a winner in our book!
Other plants, like ficus and aloe vera are effective at
removing formaldehyde often found in adhesives and furnishings from the air. Formaldehyde
is a known carcinogen… it causes cancer. Cancer sucks.
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| Aloe vera plant, removes formaldehyde from the air. |
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| Cattleya orchid for oxygen. |
Not only do houseplants purify air, but
complaints about headaches, stress, heart/circulation-symptoms and colds
decrease when indoor plants are present, according to Dr. Leona Rogler. Not
feeling so hot? Get a plant! Bring a touch of the outdoors in with beautiful verdant
houseplants. They only require a small amount of care and can really liven up
the home or workplace. Leafy or blooming, whichever plant you choose it will
add a bright touch to any room and trade your unneeded carbon dioxide and
toxins for wonderful oxygen. Take a deep breath and enjoy.
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| Go green for oxygen! |
