Carbon Health: The Ultra-Healthy Way to Stay Healthy

The health benefits of nature’s most versatile nutrient, carbon, are vast and growing. Known as the “king of the nutrients” for its ability to support the body in so many ways, from growth to maintenance and beyond. In our modern world, however, we tend to lack carbon-rich foods like whole grains, legumes, and leafy greens. That’s where indoor plants come in! Carbon-rich houseplants like ficus trees and dracaenas are excellent sources of this essential nutrient. And did you know that this same greenery also helps purify indoor air? In fact, studies show that having a few houseplants in your home can improve lung capacity and relieve symptoms of asthma by filtering out substances such as VOCs (volatile organic compounds), mold spores, pet dander, dust mite feces, and other airborne irritants.

What is carbon?

Carbon is a macro-mineral that is found in almost all living things on Earth. Plants use carbon to produce carbohydrates and oxygen through photosynthesis, while animals use it for metabolizing oxygen and converting substances such as fats and proteins into energy. Humans, too, require carbon for the production of red blood cells, collagen, and DNA. Carbon is considered a “critical mineral” because our bodies are not capable of synthesizing it. Lack of carbon can lead to various diseases, such as osteoporosis, anemia, and cancer. Plants, therefore, serve as an excellent source of this mineral, as they are able to uptake carbon dioxide (CO2) and produce oxygen as a by-product.

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Positive Health Effects of Carbon

- Boosts Immunity - Carbon is a critical component of the human immune system, which is why it has been linked to better respiratory health, stronger immunity, and decreased risk of allergies. - boosts oxygen intake - As we inhale oxygen, our blood is refreshed and placed in a more alkaline state, which helps to reduce stress, regulate mood and improve sleep quality. Plants, including those that are grown indoors, are excellent sources of oxygen and serve as a great supplementary source when inhaling is hindered, such as in a closed room. - enhances digestion - Fruits, vegetables, and herbs have all been found to boost bowel movement and digestion due to the presence of enzymes, alkalizing agents, and anti-inflamed properties that soothe symptoms associated with irregularity such as indigestion, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome. - lowers the risk of lung diseases - Indoor plants are excellent air purifiers and, as they are a natural source of carbon dioxide, they serve as an excellent supplement to improve lung capacity and relieve symptoms of asthma, like breathlessness and coughing. - reduces stress - Plants, including those that are grown indoors, are excellent sources of carbon dioxide and serotonin, which are linked to a state of calm and reduced stress. - improves blood pressure - The anti-oxidant properties of certain plants, such as those that are grown indoors, have been linked to an enhancement in blood pressure regulation. - reduces the risk of developing certain cancers - Certain plants are known to have anti-carcinogenic properties that significantly reduce the risk of certain cancers, such as lung, oral, and stomach cancer.

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6 ways houseplants help you stay healthy while breathing easier

- Healthy Air Quality - One of the many benefits of having indoor plants is that they act as natural air purifiers, removing potentially harmful toxins from the air such as formaldehyde, ammonia, halogen gases, and airborne irritants such as pet dander, mold spores, and dust mites. - Promotes Weight Loss - If you are looking to shed a few pounds, consider placing a plant in your home that acts as a natural diet pill. Certain plants, such as those that are grown indoors, have been found to have thermogenic properties that increase metabolism, which leads to quick weight loss. - Prevents Asthma - Plant-based carbon has been found to be a very effective purifier of indoor air and a great supplement for those with asthma because it cleanses the air of substances linked to asthma such as volatile organic compounds and mold spores. - Brings Calm to the Body - Plants such as those that are grown indoors are full of vitamins and minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium, which have been linked to a relaxed state of mind and reduced stress levels in the body. - Strengthening Bones - Having a few houseplants in your home can boost the supply of collagen and other minerals to the bones, which is linked to increased bone strength.

2 Ways to Get More Carbon in Your Home

- Grow your own herbs like mint and parsley - These herbs are a great source of vitamins and minerals and can be grown in any room with a sunny window. Just be sure to water them when they start to wilt and place a plant saucer underneath so that they don’t get too dry. - Use a plant saucer - Certain plants, such as those that are grown indoors, are excellent sources of carbon dioxide and can be used as a saucer for any plant, even succulents, which are known to have very low levels of this mineral.

3 Tips on How to Care for Indoor Plants to Help You Stay Healthy While Breathing Easier

- Water plants thoroughly - Most plants need to be watered thoroughly twice a week, which ensures that they receive enough water to remain hydrated and healthy. Indoor plants that are grown in pots need to be watered more often since they are likely to become too dry. - Keep plants away from drafts - As carbon dioxide is a potential irritant, it is best to keep plants away from vents and other places where they could be exposed to high levels of CO2. - Maintain optimal humidity - Plant roots are sensitive and require water, oxygen, and minerals to stay healthy and grow, which is why it is important to maintain an optimal level of humidity inside the home. This can be done by closing off rooms that do not have windows.

Conclusion

With so many positive health benefits, why not try growing some herbs or flowering plants in your home? Not only will you breathe easier, but you will also be getting a natural boost in immune system function, weight loss, lowered stress levels, and stronger bones from having plants in your home. And, best of all, they are so easy to care for!

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