Dracaena
is a genus of approximately 40 species of trees as well as succulent shrubs. That simply means you will be spoilt for choice if you are searching for a house plant in this genus. But did you know that these plants offer more than ornamental benefits? Here are some of the reasons why you should consider using these plants.
Ornamental benefits
The obvious reason for adopting a houseplant is for the ornamental benefits. The shrubby species such as D. fragrans, D. godseffiana, D. braunii and D. deremensis make perfect choices. Most of these species are toxic to pets but not to humans. Other than that, these houseplants will surely brighten up your room and create a relaxing atmosphere. Other than that, most people use dracaena mostly for the health benefits they offer.
Air purification
Plant leaves absorb and destroy various organic chemicals through a process known as metabolic breakdown. A group of German scientists were able to prove this by demonstrating the absorption and metabolic destruction of formaldehyde. The plant converts the organic chemicals to sugars, organic acid and amino acids.
- Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a chemical used in construction sites. It is in the form of urea-formaldehyde foam insulation. It is also common in wood fitted furniture such as kitchen cupboards, bedroom wardrobes and counters. Most household cleaning products also produce this chemical. Dracaena can help reduce the concentration of formaldehyde from your house thereby reducing the irritation of the mucous membranes of the nose, eyes, throat and the respiratory system.
- Benzene
This is a chemical found mostly in tobacco smoke. It is also used as a solvent and is found in various products like rubber, paints, oils, inks, household cleaning products, gasoline and plastics. Chronic exposure to this chemical leads to headaches, drowsiness, loss of appetite, psychological disturbance, nervousness and blood system diseases such as marrow disease and anemia. Dracaena houseplants are considered among the best for removing benzene.
- Trichloroethylene
This is a common industrial solvent found in paints, varnishes, adhesives and printing inks. It can cause dizziness, headaches and confusion. The chemical can also cause kidney and liver problems in the case of prolonged exposure. There are a variety of dracaena plants you can use to remove trichloroethylene.
- Carbon dioxide
This is produced from various sources of combustion including heating boilers and gas stoves. Low level exposure can cause headaches and dizziness. Acute exposure can cause death. Again, there are various dracaena houseplants that will effectively remove carbon monoxide.
Humidity control
A study conducted in the University of Agriculture in Norway concluded that houseplants can actually reduce fatigue, sore throats, coughs and a range of other illnesses related to cold. They achieve this by increasing the levels of humidity in a room and reducing dust. In addition to that, the interior plant will regulate humidity in the house by releasing moisture.
The above are just the main benefits of using dracaena. There are also options for landscaping and other outdoor uses. Go through the assortment of plants. There is definitely a plant for everyone.