The Effects of Indoor Live Plant Presence on Physiological and Psychological Markers of Stress and Mood

The Effects of Indoor Live Plant Presence on Physiological and Psychological Markers of Stress and Mood

Behavioral Neuroscience

Kamenish, Katie

Godlaski, Aaron (Mentor)

English

A growing body of research has demonstrated the physiological and psychological benefits of viewing natural landscapes, including reduced physiological stress, increased parasympathetic nervous system activity, and improved mood states. More specifically, visual stimulation of foliage plants induces psychological relaxation as indicated by measures of prefrontal cortex activity and mood state profiles. These findings extend to the distinction between live and artificial plants, in which the live plants produce more relaxed and comfortable feelings than the artificial alternative. Additionally, indoor plant exposure may improve performance on tasks involving attention capacity. Explanations for these effects have ranged from an evolutionary preference for natural environments to the release of organic compounds called phytoncides by plants and trees. Although there is existing literature regarding the effects of indoor plant exposure, further research is necessary.