Ongoing research in the field of botany seems to indicate one surprising and delightful thing: Those who gleefully chanted the words “flower power!” during the 1960s were actually onto something. Flowers DO have power.
Specifically, here are 5 amazing health benefits of flowers:
1. Flowers can help heal the common cold.
While plants and flowers aren’t exactly the cure to the common cold that has eluded scientists and researchers for centuries, they can certainly help make a dent in the pesky (and sometimes dangerous) illness. During winter months especially – when the lack of humidity breeds infection – flowers add moisture to the air. This moisture helps with dry skin, dry throat and dry cough: all factors that contribute to seasonal illness. This additional moisture contributed by plants and flowers helps prevent, or at least shortens, the life of the common cold and helps people return to good health.
2. Flowers can help improve mood.
At the most basic level, receiving flowers from someone can help lift a mood because it means someone cares, and that is always impactful. But even if the flowers are bought or planted and enjoyed by the same person, they can help improve mood because they look nice and smell good – two factors that are scientifically proven to provide an emotional boost. And an improved mood often leads to improved health. People who are in a good mood are more likely to bounce back from an injury or illness faster. Consider the fact that people often take flowers or plants to hospital patients. And for the most part, hospitals welcome this gesture as it helps patients take important strides toward recovery. Hospitals often have a green space on-site because healthcare professionals recognize the positive impact of exposure to plants and flowers.
3. Flowers improve memory.
What? Can this be true? Science says it can! Plants and flowers oxygenate the air, boosting brain cells, which improves memory, clarity and concentration. Think of plants and flowers as superfood for the brain cells!
4. Flowers aid relaxation.
The act of tending to flowers and plants can be relaxing, and gardening can specifically be a healthy way to work through stress or frustration. Also, the scent of flowers is known to aid relaxation, thus sachets and bath products are often floral. (Who doesn’t love a lavender-scented bath or candle?) Consider how often people visit a garden to relax. Though we may not understand the science behind it, it’s tough to deny that gardens aid in relaxation.
5. Flowers increase energy.
Having fresh flowers and/or potted plants around the home or office is linked to an increase in positive energy. The color and scent, specifically, boost energy. Additionally, flowers and plants are proven to increase creativity (they’re linked to an increase in positive energy). Place plants or flowers in a crafting space or any place where a mental boost would be helpful. Sit by a potted plant when reading or doing puzzles or brain exercises. Enjoy the view and benefits of increased mental energy.
