Opuntia microdasys- The Bunny Ear Cactus

by | Mar 15, 2021 | Gardening

Opuntia microdasys , a lookalike of cactus is characterized by its green pads. The cactus is a flowering plant species in the cactus family Cactaceae. It forms a dense shrub of 40–60 cm tall but more composed of pad-like stems 6–15 cm long and 4–12 cm broad.
In place of spines it has number of yellow or white glochids which are 2–3 mm long and dense clusters.

CAUTION: Glochids may cause considerable skin irritation if touched, so they must be handled with caution.

Bunny ear cactus

It is known by the names of angel’s-wings, bunny ear cactus, bunny cactus or polka-dot cactus. This cactus has no central stem or leaves. The oval shaped pads are the main constituent and attracting point of bunny ear cactus.

Why bunny ear?

Because these pad like segments always grow in pairs which result in an appearance similar to rabbit’s ears. These so called new segments appear as red and grow to dark green colour when mature.

The mature pads are highly covered with glochids which are short whitish brown prickles. These come off easily and can be blown away by wind.

Flowering:
The terminal ends of segment pads are meant for the flowers to sprout. Budding starts in late spring and ends in early summer with 2 inch wide blossoms. These are creamy yellow in colour.
This succulent comes with low maintenance and tolerance of harsh environment but it is more of an outdoor plant.

Click on the text below to know about the edible parts of Opuntia microdasys:

Dietary fiber, mineral elements profile and macronutrients composition in different edible parts of Opuntia microdasys

How to care for Bunny Ear Cactus?

1. Soil
A cactus mix will work very well for bunny ear. Avoid excess organic contents in the soil.

2. Light
4-6 hours of indirect sunlight per day is sufficient. Avoid placing it in a dark room.

3. Water
Watering should be done when the top one inch of the soil gets dried. Any excess water should be drained out from the saucer. Watering in winters should be reduced to once in every 3-4 weeks. Water only the soil and not the pads.

4. Fertilizer
Although, its not needed much but it can be applied in summers. A peat-based compost should not be used. Remember, fertilize it in the evening only.

5. Repotting
It should be performed every 1-2 years. Wait for week after repotting and then water the bunny ears cactus.

6. Pest control
Combat the scale insects and mealy bugs with a cotton ball soaked in alcohol.

7. Propagation
Here is a step guide for performing a perfect propagation of bunny ears cactus:

• Pick out a mature pad and separate from the mother plant. It is best to group the cuttings by threes or more for better survival chances.
• Make use of a tweezer to break the pads off or very thick gloves to handle this part.
• Let the pads to callus for a few days before planting.

Optional: Dip the pads in rooting hormone which helps speed up the rooting and propagation process.

• Prepare a potting mix. A cactus mix is the perfect choice for potted a bunny ear.
• Use an unglazed clay pot slightly larger than the pads that are to be repotted. The clay pot lowers the chance of root rot.
• As soon as the cuttings have callused, plant it one inch deep into the soil and place the pot in a good sunlit area.
• Leave it undisturbed for a few days and let the roots develop.
• Ultimately, water it regularly for the first year. This will help the roots develop properly.

So, have you made up your mind to make this lovely bunny ear cactus your’s?

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The Lucky Money Plant- Epipremnum aureum

by | Mar 2, 2021 | Gardening

Epipremnum aureum is known by many common names; golden pothos, Ceylon creeper, hunter’s robe, ivy arum, house plant, money plant, silver vine, Solomon Islands ivy, marble queen, and taro vine. It stays green even when kept in the dark, so it is also called devil’s vine or devil’s ivy. Money plant  is an evergreen vine which grows up to a length of 20 m tall and climbs with the help of aerial roots. Leaves are heart-shaped and arranged alternately.

Money plant in a brown pot

Benefits of Money Plant 

1. NASA recommended air purifier
It helps eliminate benzene, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and xylene.

2. Acts as an Anti-radiator
Yes, it can absorb most of the harmful radiations emitted by the gadgets and helps lower employee sickness rate by creating a productive environment at workplace and also creates a healthy environment at home.

3. Reduces stress and anxiety
Keeping it at home energizes & reduces stress in human beings. It helps avoid arguments, reduces anxiety & sleeping disorders. Green space means a stress free space. Plants are proven to lower the stress levels to a considerable amount.

4. Brings in good luck and prosperity
As the name suggests; money plant is known to bring abundance and wealth to the house and removes bad luck. Money Plant has always been considered the symbol of good luck. It is believed that keeping money plants at home can help people attain great heights in both personal and professional domains of life. North-East direction is not considered a good place to keep your money plant, so be careful. This plant is known to bring good fortune and wealth.

5. Creates a positive aura
This plant spreads positive vibes and energy around the space. Positive environment leads to a positive attitude which is the reason behind success and calm mind.

6. Keeps marital problems at bay
According to Vastu & Feng Shui, these plants should be kept indoors in the south-east direction. It maintains a healthy environment at home and keeps marital problems away.
It is believed to bring long-lasting relation, due to its heart-shaped leaves. It keeps you free from marriage tensions and binds the family together.

How to care for Money Plant?

1. Soil
Well drained soil is the demand of every plant. Sand and potting soil makes a perfect combo as sand allows good drainage and aeration to the plants.

2. Water
It can be watered once in 7-10 days in summers and once in 2-3 weeks in winter. Misting once a week in winters is enough. Let the soil dry up a little between successive watering sessions . But the gap between the sessions should not extend so long that the soil starts to crack up.

3. Light
This plant requires indirect medium to bright sunlight as scorching rays can burn the leaves. Money plant can grow well indoors and can also survive under artificial lights.

4. Fertilizer
Feeding the money plant with fertilizer once a month is sufficient. Make sure that only the prescribed amount is added.

5. Growing money plant in water
• Water should be changed every week.
• One node should be below the water level.
• No need to fertilize when growing in water.
• Keep the plant container near sunlight.

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12 Wondrous Benefits of Aloe Vera- The multi-speciality succulent

by | Feb 20, 2021 | Gardening

The Aloe Vera

Aloe barbadensis miller commonly called Aloe Vera is a multi-speciality stem less or short- stemmed xerophytic succulent which belongs to family Liliaceae. The leaves are green, fleshy and thick. It is cultivated for agricultural and medicinal uses. It is used in various cosmetics, ointments, beverages, etc. 

Almost every home has this wonderful green succulent growing. But how often do we use it? There is so much in this plant that you would be amazed to learn about. This succulent is a must at every home. 

We are listing below the benefits and uses of[the same for you to take full advantage of its properties.  

Benefits and uses

1. Clears acne

The most common problem among teenagers is acne due to hormonal change. Applying fresh aloe gel on the face can surely reduce inflammation and acne.  Close up of teenage girl popping pimple  Acne creams with a combination of aloe vera are more effective than the acne medication alone.

2. Lightens blemishes on face

This succulent helps has vitamin C and E and helps in skin rejuvenation and skin cell reproduction, ultimately leading to clear and smooth skin with no acne marks.

3. Helps in hair growth

The aloe gel activates new hair growth by increasing blood circulation to the scalp preventing hair fall. The proteolytic enzymes repair dead skin cells. Also, it acts as a conditioner. 

4.  Improves digestive health

Aloe Vera is said to cure stomach ailments and prevent ulcers by suppressing the growth of H. pylori bacteria in the digestive tract.

 

5. Heals burnsAloe vera being applied on burn

This succulent has cooling, soothing and moisturizing properties and can be used to treat burns. It also works wonders on reducing sun burns.

 

6. Anti-radiator

Yes, it can absorb harmful radiations from gadgets and give you more healthy air.

7. Improves oral health

Aloe Vera mouthwash or toothpastes can keep plaque at bay and improve overall mouth health to a great extent.

 

8. Aloe Vera juice:

Aloe vera juice in a jar

  • High on nutrients 

It contains trace amounts of manganese, zinc, copper, calcium, potassium and sodium.  It is an excellent source of vitamin B-12, C and E.

  • Gives you a clear skin

This hydrating drink keeps acne at bay. The more you infuse liquid in your diet, the more you flush out toxins and the effect is seen in the face. It repairs your skin from daily damage and makes it tolerant to unfavourable conditions, keeping the aging effect miles away.

  • Relieves heartburn

It reduces the amount of acid produced by the stomach,  thus leading to less risks of heartburn and gastric ulcers.

  • Keeps you hydrated

The juice flushes out impurities and toxins, thus keeping you healthy. Liver and kidneys are responsible for detoxifying blood and producing urine, hence aloe juice improves organ output.

  • Keeps liver healthy 

This succulent is enriched with phytonutrients, hence making it ideal for the liver. Liver functions best when it is hydrated and nourished.

  • Relieves constipation 

Now you know that the juice keeps you hydrated, so it means that it increases the water content in the body including intestine which produces a stimulation for peristalsis ,i.e., bowel movement aiding in passing stool normally. 

  • Lowers blood sugar levels

A study claimed that consuming aloe vera gel or juice can aid people control fasting blood sugar levels and lose weight also. It stimulates insulin secretion in the body helping you keep diabetes at bay. 

9. NASA recommended air purifier 

Yes, you heard it right. You might already have this amazing succulent at your home, if not you must get it right now. It has been stated as the air purifier by NASA as it helps clear formaldehyde and benzene which can be a byproduct of paints.

Other benefits 

10. Inhibits inflammation

11.Improves wound healing

12. Reduces cholesterol 

How to Care for aloe vera?

1. Opt for a terracotta pot with a hole at the bottom as it is made from porous material which enables the soil to dry thoroughly in between waterings.

2. Use a cactus mix rather than using a gardening soil which is more porous and breathable for a succulent. 

3. Aloe Vera likes bright indirect sunlight. Too intense and prolonged sunlight can damage the plant and dry it out turning it yellow.

4. Fertilize the plant in spring and summers only.

5. Never overwater the succulents as it can lead to root rot. Allow the top third layer of the soil to dry completely before next watering. Reduce watering extremely in winters. 

*This content is source and research based, kindly consult your physician before consuming any product. 

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15 Sacred Trees Native to India

by | Jan 29, 2021 | Health and Immunity

India, the land of Gods and Goddesses where many divine powers took birth. People here see deities as the intermediaries with the divine world, and as a source of connection to God. In many traditions and religions, plants and trees are seen as a spiritual symbol. Rigveda and Atharvaveda take us into the history of plants, and their benefits in Ayurveda. These living greens symbolize divinity, fertility, purity, prosperity and growth. 

No doubt, plants and trees are the reason for the existence of entire human race.

So, let us have a look at a few plants and trees which are sacred and are worshipped all around India. 

1. Peepal (Ficus religiosa)

Peepal tree is popularly known as Bodhi tree. It is believed that Gautam Buddha gained enlightenment under this tree.

This tree represents three main gods in hinduism- Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The leaves represent Shiva, the trunk represents Vishnu and the roots represent Brahma. Therefore, it represents the Holy Trinity in the scriptures. A red thread is tied around the tree to worship it. According to Skanda Pyrana, Lord Vishnu resides under this tree. Peepal tree is considered as the ‘Tree of life’ not only amongst Hindus but also amongst Jains and Buddhists.

The three doshas, vāta, pitta and kapha fluctuate in the body due to various factors and health exists when an equal amount of these elements are present in one’s body. Peepal keeps the balance of these three elements.

This sacred tree finds uses in different ayurvedic medicines and is known to treat various ailments.

Sacred Peepal tree leaves

Benefits:

  • Peepal tree is a storehouse of oxygen as it emits large quantities of breathable air. Every part of this tree has a use. Asthma, high blood sugar levels, constipation and diarrhoea are treatable with the help of leaves, fruits, stem bark and root bark.
  • The peepal bark reduces the symptoms of diarrhea by the contraction of mucosal cells due to its astringent properties. Also, constipation can be managed by the peepal leaves.
  • Due to its anti-allergic properties the dried powder of peepal bark can be used to manage respiratory problems.
  • Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, inflammation related to eczema can be reduced using the leaf extract in the form of ointment by applying topically. Hence, it can manage skin diseases.
  • This sacred plant can also be used for a brighter complexion, cracked heels, toothache, impotency, ear infection, eye pain and purifying blood.

*Use peepal formulations under medical supervision only as it can cause allergies in hypersensitive people. 

  1. Banyan (Ficus benghalensis)

Banyan tree is the national tree of our country and is also known as ‘bargad’. It provides a vast field of shade due to its lush and large foliage. It is highly worshipped and is believed to fulfil wishes as per the Hindu mythology. This sacred tree is found commonly near a temple and homes and is known to regulate the balance of the three doshas as peepal does. It is known as the kalpa vriksha. It is generally considered as the humble abode of Krishna.

Banyan tree picture

Benefits:

The Antioxidant properties help reduce bad cholesterol levels and helps manage blood glucose levels by increasing insulin secretion.

 The aqueous extract of banyan leaves help reduce pain and inflammation due to arthritis because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Banyan tree fruit aids in stress reduction and manages anxiety and depression. 

  •  Digestive system

This tree has anti-microbial and healing properties which may treat diarrhea and dysentery. The tree extract has high fiber content which is used to treat constipation. 

  • Oral health

The two main strains of bacteria responsible for disturbing the oral health are Lactobacillus and Streptococcus mutans, towards which the banyan shows antibacterial effect and prevents tooth decay.

  •  Immune system

The banyan tree bark has bioactive compounds rich in antioxidant agents which neutralize the free radicals and prevent damage to internal organs. So, this extract is used in various Indian folk medicines. Hence, it also boosts immunity. 

  •  Vaginal infection

 Vaginal infection is caused due to the microbial flora of the vagina. Banyan tree (leaf extract) is antimicrobial in nature. The bark or the leaves are crushed to make a powder, which is then mixed with water to prepare a vaginal wash for treatment of the infection, particularly leucorrhea.

  • Skin care

It has the capability to block the toxic effects of several allergens and provides a soothing effect. It is also used to prevent skin damage. Concoctions prepared from banyan leaves and aloe vera help treat skin allergies and improve skin health. Therefore, the sacred banyan has skin protective properties. 

  • Diabetes

Diabetes is a major health concern worrying almost everyone. The bioactive compounds of the tree extract helps deal with diabetes.

  • Mosquito-borne diseases

Culex and Anopheles are the vectors for japanese encephalitis and malaria, respectively. The methanolic extract of the tree helps to keep in check the mosquito population due to its larvicidal properties. 

  • Anti-bacterial and anti-fungal

The aerial or prop roots’ extract is rich in anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties which work against many types of bacteria and fungi.

  •  Pollution control

This sacred tree is also a helping hand to nature as it has the potential to minimize the air polluting agents, thus maintaining the air quality of an area.

  1. Ashoka (Saraca asoca)

Ashoka tree is sacred to Buddhists, Jains and Hindus and is known to be associated with Kama Deva (the god of love). It is heard that Shakyamuni Buddha took birth under an ashoka tree situated in Lumbini Garden. Hanuman meets Sita in the garden of ashoka trees (Ashoka Vatika) which is mentioned in the Ramayana. 

This tree has elegant flowers and is an evergreen species. A Toran of Ashoka leaves is hung on the main door on an auspicious occasion as it creates a positive atmosphere in the house.

Sacred Ashoka leaves

Benefits:

  1. Consumption of ashoka juice may promote healthy skin as it purifies blood.
  2. It aids in controlling internal bleeding in case of piles due to its astringent properties.
  3. Application of its juice on the skin helps get rid of excess oil.
  4. Ashoka helps in managing menstrual problems like irregular and painful periods.
  5. Its powder consumption can relieve abdominal pain.
  1. Mango (Mangifera indica)

The Mango tree and also its fruit is considered as a vital ingredient for any puja or religious ceremony. The leaves are hung in the house to mark an auspicious occasion as it is said that the leaves mark goddess Lakshmi. Also, these are placed on kalash on rituals during  Purnakumba (a hindu ceremony). The coconut on the top of kalash symbolizes the head of the god and the leaves symbolize limbs. The tree has also been quoted in Mahabharata,  Ramayana and Puranas. The sacred fruit symbolizes fertility and purity and is known as the ‘King of fruits’. 

Mango leaves and fruits

Benefits:

  1. Leaves
  • The mango leaves have anti-inflammatory agents which are generally due to mangiferin which prevents inflammation.
  • The leaf extract helps to control diabetes, obesity and regulates fat metabolism.
  • They are rich in terpenoids and polyphenols. The latter have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and help avoid heart diseases, obesity and cancer, whereas, the former are  antioxidants which fight against free radicals leading to a healthy immune system.
  • The mangiferin in mango leaves may have anticancer agents, as it combats oxidative stress and fights inflammation.
  1. Fruit
  1. Bael (Aegle marmelos)

Bael tree is linked with lord Shiva. Its leaves are always offered to Shiva and the religious ceremonies are incomplete in the absence of bael fruits and leaves. The fruit is also used to worship Parvati and Viva rupra.

Bael fruit and leaves

There are numerous benefits associated with this sacred tree out of which some are listed below:

  • Relieves constipation 
  • Its leaves help fight against the recurring colds and respiratory problems. 
  • Bael juice contributes in beautifying hair by enhancing hair growth.
  • Keeps a check on the bad cholesterol levels.
  • This vitamin C rich fruit helps keep scurvy at bay
  • Prevents peptic ulcers due to its soothing effects
  • The bael fruit aids in increasing blood count
  • Prevents gynaecological problems
  • Its juice and squash keeps you hydrated in summers.
  1. Neem (Azadirachta indica)

Neem tree is known to be associated with goddess Durga and is believed to protect against the evil spirits. It is highly respected in India. It has various health benefits and ayurvedic uses.

A special puja is held on Chaitra Navaratri when prayers are offered to the Neem tree, symbolising the worship of goddess Shitala. People often bathe new-born babies in water boiled with neem leaves because of its medicinal and sacred properties .

Neem leaves

Benefits:

  1. Its paste relieves tired or irritated eyes, fades away dark spots, chronic ulcers or eruptions on skin, treats dandruff and heals wounds. 
  2. Its leaves prevents bleeding nose, treats upset stomach, intestinal worms, cardiovascular diseases, gingivitis. The leaves aid in birth control and abortion. 
  3. The flower controls phlegm and reduces bile.
  4. The bark is used for skin diseases, pain, fever and malaria. 
  5. The neem twigs of this sacred tree aid in relieving cough, asthma, urinary disorders, diabetes and checks low sperm count.
  1. Coconut (Cocos nucifera)

The coconut tree of South India is also one of the most worshipped trees. It is used in religious ceremonies and distributed as prasad at various holy places. Coconuts are worshipped to lord at auspicious occasions and are considered as sacred and lucky.

Benefits:

  • Coconut milk

Coconut milk finds its uses in food as well as health. It imparts an extra taste to the meals.

The milk can relieve sore throat and eye infection. Drinking half a glass of this milk can reduce constipation. 

  • Coconut oil

Coconut oil helps get rid of skin and scalp dryness.

Its boiled flower concoction helps relieve kidney related diseases.

The oil may treat headache and fever.

  •    Coconut water

Coconut water contains natural vitamin C and potassium.It does wonders during summers by hydrating and energizing every part of your body.It is good for both kidneys and bladder.It relieves stomach aches.

  •    Coconut roots

Coconut roots may treat kidney, gall bladder and urinary infections in some cases. The boiled water of coconut roots is used to take care of oral health.

You all would be knowing many other benefits and importance of the sacred trees than the ones I have mentioned. Share your benefits and remedies with us in the comment box.

To be continued…

Sick Building Syndrome v/s Green Lungs

by | Nov 23, 2020 | Gardening

What is Sick Building Syndrome (SBS)?

Sick building syndrome is a common worldwide health concern, where people in a building suffer from symptoms of illness or become infected with chronic disease from the building in which they work or reside, but no specific illness or cause can be identified.

History
1. Late 1970s- vague symptoms were reported by people in newly constructed homes, nurseries and offices. It was known as “office illness” in media.

During the first energy crisis in the 1970s, builders and building owners took action to reduce energy consumption in office buildings by increasing insulation, weather stripping doors, building wraps and using insulated double- and triple-pane windows.

In many cases, buildings were renovated to setup windows that couldn’t open, to minimize the escape of heated or cooled air.

2. 1980- NIOSH got 150 internal environmental quality complaints.

3. 1986- WHO coined the term “Sick Building Syndrome” and it also came to notice that 10-30% of newly built buildings in the West had indoor air quality issues.

4. 1989- The Swedish allergy study indicated sick building as a cause of the allergy epidemic.

5. 1990s-
• considerable research was carried out on Sick building syndrome.
• various studies were performed on individual buildings.
• the chemical contents of the material of the building was considered.
• a distrust of the Sick building syndrome concept was raised.
• 52% of complaints concerned sick-making work environments in USA.

6. 1999- a thesis at the Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm 1999 questioned the methodology of previous research.

7. 2005- a Danish study presented the imperfections experimentally which showed that sick building syndrome is neither a coherent syndrome nor a disease which can be diagnosed individually, rather it is a collection of semi related diseases.

8. 2006- the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare advised in the medical journal Läkartidningen that “sick building syndrome” should not be used as a clinical diagnosis.

How many buildings have this problem?

Animated Sick Building
WHO claims, 30% of the buildings suffer from sick building syndrome. We spend 90% of our time indoors due to the busy schedule and don’t have the time to relish nature.

           

What Causes Sick building syndrome?

1. Indoor contamination (heaters, smoking, etc.)
2. Outdoor contamination
3. Poor ventilation
4. Electromagnetic radiations
5. Biological contamination (pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, spores, molds and protozoans)
6. Common products such as
• paint
• insulation
• rigid foam
• particle board
• plywood
• duct liners
• exhaust fumes, various chemical contaminants from indoor or outdoor sources, and biological contaminants can be trapped inside by the HVAC AC system.

Signs and symptoms
The WHO has sorted the reported symptoms into various categories, including:
• mucous membrane irritation (eye, nose, and throat irritation),
• neurotoxic effects (headaches, fatigue, and irritability),
• asthma and asthma-like symptoms (chest tightness and wheezing)

People affected with Sick building syndrome coming out of the sick building with thermometer• skin dryness and irritation, gastrointestinal complaints and more. 
• Non-specific hypersensitivity reactions, voice hoarseness, flu-like symptoms
• personality changes, reduction in work efficiency and increase in absenteeism.

A very large 2017 Swedish study corresponded several inflammatory diseases of the respiration tract with an objective proof of damp-caused damage in homes.

Diagnosis
There is no specified medical test to diagnose sick building syndrome. The below given characteristics can help identifying the cause :
1. Symptoms disappear once the affected person leaves the building or home.
2. Other co-workers have similar issues or complaints.

Animated building with a stethoscope

For your convenience write down when and where the symptoms start, as well as when they go away. Also, be very much specific about your symptoms. Your doctor will try identifying conditions that could mimic sick building symptoms. Record them in your diary.

How to resist the effect of illness?

Coming down to health, there are many natural ways of improving it i.e. engaging in physical activities, eating healthy, thinking positive, opting good habits and spending time with mother nature.

General health is a pivotal pillar for quality of life. How would it feel to be able to live in a place that provides,
• 48% increased focus on your work
• 26% increase in your study performance
• 6.4% improvement in the quality of sleep

Most of us do not know the characteristics of Truly Healthy Spaces. These are:
• To think
• To judge
• To memorize
• To understand

 Most of these strategies can be accomplished by gardening or greenery, but now days we have zero or very little space due to urbanization, open spaces are captured by high rise apartments. So, now we are left with vertical spaces like walls or roofs.

Sustainable healthy homes and offices

Within the last 20 years there has been renewed interest in the role of designed landscapes as a healing tool to enhance the wellbeing.

Sustainable design seeks to Reduce negative influence on environment, health and comfort of building occupants, thereby improving building performance. The basic objectives of sustainability are to cut down consumption of non-renewable resources, minimize waste and create healthy, productive environment.

How?
Sustainable design principles include the ability to:
• Optimize site potential
• Minimize non-renewable energy consumption
• Use environmentally preferable products
• Protect and conserve water
• Enhance indoor environmental quality
• Optimize operational and maintenance practices

Vertical Gardening for Healthy Living (The Green Lung’s Magic)
Vertical gardening (also known as the Living wall or the Green lung) is a technique used to grow plants on a vertically suspended panel. These unique structures can either be free standing or attached to a wall.

Vertical panel with plantsThese living green vertical structures can be as small as picture frame or as massive as thousands of square feet.
The trend of indoor gardening is increasing tremendously as people are taking interest in beautifying their homes and workplace with different kind of plants, veggies and herbs on a vertical panel.

How can green lungs help?

1. Respiratory Health
Animated lungsThe plants in a living wall filter particulate matter from the air and convert carbon dioxide into oxygen. A green lung extracts 2.3 kg carbon dioxide per annum from the air and produces 1.7 kg of oxygen. With these green lungs you contribute to air purification.
If you opt for an electric air purifier, you never know to how much extent the air is getting purified. Plus there will be an energy cost and it may also emit some radiations. Whereas, plants do not affect or emit anything, says Ar. Hardika who leads Hardika Architects firm in the city of Karnal.

2. Thermal Health
Thermometer50% sunlight is absorbed by the plants while 30% is reflected. Thus, it leads to a cooler and more pleasant environment in summers and a warmer indoor climate during winters.

3. Safety

Plants naturally contain a lot of moisture. With a green lung you create a natural fire resistant layer on a building or a house. Thus, it acts as a natural safety blanket.

4. Reduces ambient noise
No noise signA green lung acts as a sound barrier to the building. It absorbs 41% more sound than a traditional facade and this means that the indoor environment is much quieter. Also, the indoor voices are less likely to reach outside.

5. Extends facade life span
A green lung offers protection from external influences such as the sun, rain, wind and temperature fluctuations and thus, extends the life span of a building by reducing the contraction and relaxation of the concrete material.

6. Adds value to the building
The natural and sustainable appearance combined with a reduction in energy cost, means an increase in the value of your property and it also serves as a landmark.

7. Heightens the feeling of well being
Living and working in a green environment has a positive effect on one’s well health. Gardening offers you relaxation and reduces stress, says Ar. Hardika.

8. Green helps you focus
A healthier environment, cleaner air, and a better state of mind. The knock-on effect of this greener living space is the plants’ ability to improve concentration and focus, particularly important if your home is also your workplace.

9. Reduction in energy cost and utilization
Green lungs help to reduce the energy costs incurred to adequately ventilate and control building temperature. Reduction in the use of energy will not only cut down on heavy electricity bills but will also help conserving energy for the upcoming generations.

Plants in a green lung can remove upto 87% of toxins in air within a period of 24 hours.
Plants are effective in cutting down the amount of VOCs and enhance indoor environment. These VOCs include formaldehyde, benzene, xylene and trichloroethylene.

Green lungs or greenery contribute to improve the mental performance by 26% and quality of sleep by 6.4%.
Not only health benefits, green walls also provide a connection with nature that is missing from our work environment. It is really crucial to maintain this connection in order to stay healthy and active. The desire or the urge to connect with nature is known as biophilia.

How many plants you need to clean the air?
The NASA studies on indoor pollution done in 1989, recommended that 15 to 18 plants in 6 to 8 inch diameter containers each, help to clean the air in an average 1,800 square foot house, which is roughly one plant per 100 square feet of floor space.

Does it really matter?

Yes it does. In case of workplace, healthy employees mean more of efficiency and productivity in work. Healthier working environment can cut back on employee’s health expenditures. Whereas, at home you can up class the health of your family and as well as cut down on health expenditures and food cost by growing your own garden. Greenery will help children focus on studies and will make them more active, productive, and creative.

The man built environment is the major cause of green house gas emissions. The quality of air is changing day by day and so is the health of the population. Greenery is the only solution to this problem. Plants can transform our lives in an unexpected way. There is a need of looking at things from green and positive angles.

What we can do?

We can start from our own place, like our homes, then offices and then community. Improved environment quality can help create jobs and productive employees. The community health is also improved gradually.

We all need to join hands for a green initiative to secure the coming generation’s future as well as improve our health.
Good health is what remains forever.

To conclude, Green lungs i.e. mother nature wins over Sick building syndrome.                                                         

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