“Consumers have historically shown an inclination to purchase plants that enhance their quality of life, meaning they will purchase items that positively influence their social, physical, psychological, cognitive, environmental and spiritual well-being,” Charlie Hall, Ph.D., AgriLife Extension horticulture and economics specialist

According to the National Academy of Sciences, “nature-based recreation” has decreased 25 percent in the last 40 years.

-A study from Washington State University found plants reduce dust in rooms by as much as 20 percent. The study confirms plants can successfully remove particulate matter from the air. The study also suggests plants may help add humidity to a room. As a result, people in a room with plants may experience less dry, dusty air than in rooms without.

"Poor air quality can aggravate existing health issues and, in some cases, can even cause them" Barbara Lloyd ,May 24, 2013

Examples include:

-In aromatherapy, fragrance substances (aroma/odor/scent) from various natural sources have been used for the treatment of various disorders.

Among the various natural fragrant components, essential oils are the main therapeutic agents, which are said to be a highly concentrated volatile, and complex mixture of aromatic components obtained from different organs of the plant.

-When we breathe in the air near trees or a forest, we inhale phytoncides, an airborne chemical that plants emit to protect themselves from insects and other various diseases. Phytoncides also have antibacterial and antifungal qualities that help plants fight disease. Phytoncides can also help humans reduce stress hormones, and lower anxiety. The American Horticultural Therapy Association (AHTA) has compiled research about the mental benefits of interacting with a garden and the outdoors. Evidence going back to ancient times shows that people created gardens to please the senses and calm minds.