Flowers Forever – The Healing Power of Plants
The tradition of giving someone a plant or flowers has been practiced around the world and in various cultures for millennia. The reasons for this are many and rooted in various cultural beliefs and practices. Flowers have been regarded as symbols of healing, comfort, and well-wishes, making them timeless and thoughtful gifts for those in need of support and encouragement. We can look back to the ancient Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks for the early origins of the tradition of sending flowers. The giving of flowers was seen to provide comfort and promote healing to the recipient. Additionally, the aromatic scents were thought to ward off evil spirits and create a soothing environment for the patient.
During the Middle Ages, when medical knowledge was limited and epidemics were common, flowers were used to mask unpleasant odors and purify the air in sickrooms. Fragrant flowers like lavender and roses were popular choices due to their sweet scents. It was believed that flowers could help ward off disease and aid in the recovery process. Then in the Victorian era, spanning from the mid-19th to early 20th century, the rise of elaborate social customs and symbolism, including the language of flowers, also known as floriography came into fashion. Each flower held a specific meaning, and people used floriography to convey messages and emotions. Sending flowers to the sick during this period became a way to express care, well-wishes, and sympathy. Flowers such as lilies, daisies, and violets were commonly sent to convey messages of hope, purity, and healing.
The health benefits of surrounding oneself with plants and flowers have been confirmed in modern times by science. No longer simply tradition and superstition, healthcare facilities have embraced the presence of flowers, recognizing their ability to create a soothing environment and improve the overall well-being of patients. Scientific findings identified that being around flowers and plants has a restorative effect. Benefits include:
- Improved air quality: Plants help purify the air by removing pollutants and releasing oxygen through the process of photosynthesis. They can remove common indoor air pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. This can lead to cleaner and healthier air, reducing the risk of respiratory problems and improving overall well-being.
- Stress reduction: Being in the presence of plants and flowers has been found to reduce stress levels. Studies have shown that interacting with nature, even in indoor settings with plants, can lower blood pressure, heart rate, and cortisol (stress hormone) levels. This can contribute to a calmer and more relaxed state of mind.
- Enhanced mood and mental health: Exposure to plants and flowers has been linked to improved mood and mental health. Research suggests that spending time in green environments can alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. The presence of nature, including plants and flowers, has a restorative effect on mental fatigue, boosting mood and cognitive performance.
- Increased productivity and focus: Having plants in work or study environments has been shown to enhance productivity and concentration. Research indicates that the presence of greenery can improve attention span, memory retention, and task performance. This may be attributed to the positive impact of plants on reducing mental fatigue and creating a more pleasant and stimulating atmosphere.
- Healing and recovery: The presence of plants and flowers in healthcare settings has been found to promote healing and aid in patient recovery. Studies have shown that patients in hospital rooms with plants tend to experience less pain, require fewer pain medications, and have shorter hospital stays compared to those in rooms without greenery. The soothing effect of plants can contribute to a positive psychological state, which in turn supports the healing process.
- Increased creativity and problem-solving skills: Nature, including plants and flowers, has been found to boost creativity and problem-solving abilities. Exposure to natural elements has been shown to stimulate innovative thinking, enhance cognitive function, and improve performance in creative tasks. Having plants in indoor spaces can provide a similar effect, fostering a more conducive environment for creativity.
It’s worth noting that these benefits can vary depending on the specific plant species, the environment, and individual preferences. However, the overall body of scientific research suggests that incorporating plants and flowers into indoor and outdoor spaces can have positive effects on air quality, well-being, mood, cognition, and overall quality of life.
While sending flowers is not a direct remedy for physical ailments, it can have indirect benefits on a person’s emotional state, which is an important aspect of overall health and well-being. It’s essential to consider the preferences and sensitivities of the individual when sending flowers, as some individuals may have allergies or other medical conditions that could be aggravated by certain types of flowers or scents. There are certain situations where sending flowers may not be appropriate. For example, in intensive care units, it’s best to check with the hospital or the patient’s family before sending floral arrangements.
Spending time outdoors, incorporating green spaces within a community, creating a green oasis in a loved one’s room or home, or sending a simple bouquet of a favorite flower instills multiple benefits that if practiced over time reduce stress and enhance healing.
Resources:
Health and well-being benefits of plants. (2023). Tamu.edu. https://ellisonchair.tamu.edu/health-and-well-being-benefits-of-plants/
Kennedy’s Flower Shop. (2023). Kennedyfloral.com. https://www.kennedyfloral.com/history-of-the-tradtion-of-flower-giving#:~:text=The%20earliest%20dates%20of%20gifting,them%20as%20props%20for%20storytelling.