Many people have a Ficus Elastica plant in their home due to the beauty and freshness it adds to space. What most of them don’t know though, is that this plant can also provide many health benefits. One of its coolest features is that it is an excellent natural air purifier. In a research conducted by NASA, called the ‘The Clean Air Study’, the Ficus Elastica ranked high on the list of houseplants that eliminate toxins from the air. The research showed that the plant is able to absorb air pollutants from its surroundings, including formaldehyde, carbon monoxides, benzene, acetone, and other volatile chemicals. Let’s take a look at some of the ways that having the Ficus Elastic plant in your home can benefit you.
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Decreased Chances of Getting Allergies
One of the greatest health benefits of the Ficus Elastica plant regarding air purification is its ability to minimize the chances of an individual getting respiration allergies such as asthma. Thanks to the fact that this plant also helps increase humidity within a room, it prevents pollutants and other unwanted particles to eventually turn into dust.
Natural Anti-Inflammation
The leaves of this plant have the power to cure skin rash. This can be done by regularly rubbing the affected area with mashed fresh leaves. The plant’s roots can also help cure rheumatic diseases. Combine 30-50 grams of its roots with 2 glasses of water and boil this until it remains just 1 glass of it. Let it cool down and drink the water.
Natural Analgesic
The leaves of the Ficus Elastica plant are also known to contain analgesic substances that can help cure inflammation. Simply mash the fresh leaves and rub the affected area with them. Besides using it on the skin, the plant can also be used to treat teeth inflammation. Instead of rubbing the mashed leaves, put them in a cup of water and gargle the mixture.
Promotes Stomach Health
Although it hasn’t been scientifically proven, many people use the leaves of this plant to keep their stomach healthy. Being a natural ingredient that does not contain any artificial chemicals, there is really no harm in using the Ficus Elastica. Nevertheless, it is never a bad idea to consult with your healthcare professional first.
All in all, if you are thinking about getting a Ficus Elastica plant for your home, know that it is quite easy to take care of, which also makes it an excellent option for beginners. It grows well in soil or hydrochloride and it does not tolerate over-watering. When in active growth, the plant should be watered thoroughly and regularly but the soil should be allowed to dry slightly before watering it again. Young plants may need a support stake and gloves should be used when pruning them.
