# Health and environmental effects of indoor plants and oils

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/health-and-environmental-effects-of-indoor-plants-and-oils
> Updated: 2026-10-24T08:48:34.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 4.

Research continues to explore the health and environmental impacts of essential oils and indoor plants, noting that while benefits exist, they are often overstated. 

Regarding aromatherapy, studies suggest oils like rosemary, lavender, and cinnamon may offer modest cognitive and relaxation benefits. A study in the ‘International Journal of Neuroscience’ involving 144 participants indicated that rosemary aromatherapy could enhance cognitive abilities, mental alertness, and memory. Lavender is frequently used to reduce tension and aid sleep, while cinnamon may help alleviate exhaustion and anxiety. Some oils also demonstrate antibacterial and antiviral properties.

Regarding indoor plants, experts emphasize they are not a substitute for proper ventilation or a primary method for air purification. While species such as the spider plant, peace lily, pothos, snake plant, aglaonema, and dracaena can absorb small amounts of gases and trap dust, achieving air purification comparable to opening a window would require a very large number of plants. 

John Tregoning, a professor at Imperial College London, highlights a significant gap in oxygen production: a single plant produces only a few liters of oxygen per day, whereas a person consumes approximately 500 liters. Furthermore, research in ‘Cleaner Engineering and Technology’ notes that the effectiveness of plants in removing carbon dioxide is highly dependent on light levels and the total volume of plants present.

Beyond air quality, greenery can support mental well-being by reducing stress and promoting mindfulness. Specific varieties like Monstera Deliciosa, Ficus Elastica, and Zamioculcas are recommended for home decor. Recent observations on plant care suggest that proper air circulation is critical to prevent stagnant air and disease; movement can even encourage ‘thigmomorphogenesis’, helping plants develop sturdier stems. Additionally, plant choice can manage humidity: peace lilies remove volatile organic compounds like benzene but increase humidity, whereas snake plants release very little moisture, making them suitable for damp environments.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-24: Houseplant care and their impact on indoor air quality

Maintaining air circulation promotes stronger plant stems and prevents disease, while specific species like peace lilies and English ivy can help manage indoor air quality and humidity levels.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/houseplant-care-and-their-impact-on-indoor-air-quality

### 2026-10-22: Indoor plants and their benefits for well-being

Indoor plants can improve air quality, reduce stress, and enhance home aesthetics, contributing to overall mental well-being and a more serene living environment.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/indoor-plants-and-their-benefits-for-well-being

### 2026-10-06: Indoor plants and their impact on air quality

Experts clarify that while indoor plants contribute to aesthetics and oxygen production, hundreds would be needed to significantly impact human oxygen consumption or air quality.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/indoor-plants-and-their-impact-on-air-quality

### 2026-09-24: Health benefits of essential oils and indoor plants

Studies suggest essential oils like rosemary and lavender can aid mental focus and sleep, while indoor plants offer minor air purification benefits but cannot replace regular ventilation.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/health-benefits-of-essential-oils-and-indoor-plants

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Cite as: Health and environmental effects of indoor plants and oils. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/health-and-environmental-effects-of-indoor-plants-and-oils