Benefits of Plants
PLANTS are extraordinary organisms and form the foundation of life on Earth. Plant kingdom is quite diverse from microscopic algae to towering Redwoods; it encompasses a series of species. They are mere more than the background scenery of the planet. From the air we breathe to the food we eat; plants play a crucial role in assisting each and every basic human need. all these benefits plants are facing numerous threats in this modern world. activities such as deforestation and pollution have led to immense loss to biodiversity like climate change, extinction of species and many more. It's a high time now we humans must become conscious about how beneficial plants are to humans and there is no life without them could ever exist. There are numerous benefits of plants such a
Food source
Many plants such as fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds etc. are consumed directly. Staple crops like rice, wheat, corn form the basis of diets all around the world. They are the source of essential nutrients like , vitamins, minerals and fiber. Plant based diets are more environment friendly than animal-based ones. Crop diversity helps ensure food security in face of climate change and other challenges. Plants are the primary source in maintaining food chain from terrestrial to aquatic ones.
Medicinal Benefits
Many cultures have used plants for its healing properties for thousands of years. In today's modern world plants have become the source of pharmaceuticals as well .Numerous modern drugs are derived from plant compounds. Common painkiller Aspirin that has analgesic properties is also derived from the bark of willow plants. Plants that are rich in antioxidants and fiber can improve cardiovascular health. Echinacea is an immunity booster helps in reducing severity and duration of cold and flu. Celandine is also known for inhibiting metastasis i.e. Spread of cancerous cell from infected part to the healthy ones. It is also known for inducing apoptosis in cancer cells. Similarly, another plant St. John’s wort is commonly used in treating mild to moderate depression. Here are just a few examples but there are numerous other medicinal benefits of plants which have potential to show great impact in the medical field
Climate Regulation
As we are aware of the fact that plant release oxygen as the byproduct of photosynthesis which is beneficial for life on earth. On the other hand plants also absorb CO2 from the atmosphere during photosynthesis and store it in their biomass and soil and this process is known as Carbon Sequestration. This natural process is a key reason why protecting forests and other plant rich ecosystem is essential to fight against climate change. Plants also bind the soil tightly thus preventing soil erosion and maintaining soil health and stability. Plants also help to moderate the temperature of nearby environment via transpiration and forming water vapors thus cooling the environment. Transpiration plays a crucial role in cloud formation and controlling rainfall patterns. Plants also provide habitat and food to various species thus sustaining and promoting ecosystem resilience.
Soil Conservation
The root system of plants binds the soil particles thus reducing wind and water erosion. It also helps in improving soil structure as roots create channels in the soil enhancing aeration as well as water infiltration. As the plant dies it provide natural humus to the soil. Plant also provide shelter to various microbes say for example Rhizobium is in symbiotic association with plant roots as it converts atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia which is absorbable by plants and in return plant provide it with food and shelter. Plant takes nutrients from deep soil layers and returns them to the soil as its debris. Roots enhance water holding capacity of soil reducing runoff and maintaining moisture
Water Cycle
regulation Plants play a crucial role in regulating the water cycle. It helps in releasing water vapors via transpiration helps in maintaining moisture and cloud formation. Plant roots can filter the pollutants present in the water thus reducing the need for human made filtration techniques. Plants help in mitigating floods by absorbing rainfall especially in wetlands and densely forested areas. Overall healthy plant ecosystem is essential in regulating water cycle
Economic Benefits
Plants are of great economic benefits from food we eat to generating renewable energy are the hub for income not only for individuals but for many countries as well. Staple crops are the basis of global food security along with fruits, vegetable and nuts provide essential nutrients and support diverse food preferences as well as generate immense revenue from global and domestic market
Aesthetic and Psychological Benefits
Research has demonstrated that interacting with plants lowers stress and anxiety levels. Spending time with plants has been shown to improve mood as well as feeling of contentment and enjoyment. With their variety of hues, forms, and sizes, plants create aesthetically pleasant surrounding