There is more to plants than the aesthetics.

Studies have proven that houseplants:

• Can help with Allergies
• Boost mood and creativity
• Increase humidity, lowering your chances of getting a cold or the flu
• Purify the air
• Filter carbon dioxide and give off oxygen
• Provide Stress relief
• Increase focus
• Promote Healing
• Are therapeutic and promote healing 

Starting to realize why you should become a plant person?

Improve the environment at home

It's apparent that there is a ton of pollution around us daily. Whether you are at work, outside, or in your home you are surrounded by it. And while there may not be anything you can do about it on a global scale you can certainly decrease the pollution in your home with plants.

In the late 80's NASA conducted a clean air study to research ways to clean the air in space stations. The results were staggering. The study showed that not only do indoor plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, some common indoor plants may also remove volatile organic pollutants. These include benzene, formaldehyde and triclhoroethylene. A more recent study conducted in 2004 showed that even micro-organisms in the soil of a potted plant can actually remove benzene from the air.

Some of the plants that were tested and proved to be excellent air cleaners include Snake plants, Pothos, English ivy, and Aloe vera. These are all relatively low maintenance plants that would make a great addition to any home or office. One may think he or she doesn't have pollution in their home but wall paints, rubbers, vinyl, laminates, computer parts and plastics all break down over time and release compounds into the air we breathe.

There's nothing like green

When you're feeling down there is no replacement for going outside and enjoying nature. However, you can bring some nature inside. Studies have shown that being around plants can reduce mental fatigue and stress while increasing relaxation. An indoor garden can be your refuge from the outside world. Whether you live in big house or a tiny apartment there is just something about seeing green that improves your overall health.