THE MODERN DRAGON FENG SHUI

Incorporating plants into your environment offers numerous benefits for air quality. They purify the air by removing toxins, reducing dust, and absorbing CO2 while producing oxygen and regulating humidity. You can create a healthier and more balanced indoor space by choosing the right plants and caring for them properly. Plants clean the air to help you breathe, help you get a good night’s sleep, reduce stress and anxiety, boost your brain power, and bring greater joy and well-being into your life. 

Air Purification

Removal of Toxins:

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Many common household products release VOCs like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene, which can be harmful in high concentrations. Studies, including 'NASA's Clean Air Study', have shown that certain plants can effectively remove these VOCs from the air.

Mechanism: Plants absorb these chemicals through their leaves and roots, where they are broken down by microbes in the soil or converted into less harmful substances by the plant itself.

Dust Reduction:

Studies: Research has shown that plants can reduce dust levels in indoor environments. One study found that rooms with plants had up to 20% less dust than rooms without plants.

Mechanism: The large surface area of plant leaves traps dust particles, reducing the overall dust levels in the air.

Oxygen Production

Photosynthesis:

Process: During daylight hours, plants undergo photosynthesis, a process where they convert carbon dioxide (CO2) and water into oxygen (O2) and glucose using sunlight.

Benefits: This increase in oxygen levels can improve air quality, making it easier to breathe and enhancing overall well-being,

Humidity Regulation

Transpiration:

Process: Plants release moisture into the air through a process called 'transpiration', where water taken up by the roots is released as water vapour through pores (stomata) in the leaves.

Benefits: This process can help maintain indoor humidity levels, especially in dry environments or during winter when heating systems reduce humidity. Proper humidity can prevent respiratory problems, dry skin, and static electricity.

Reduction of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Levels

CO2 Absorption:

Process: Plants absorb CO2 during photosynthesis, which helps lower the concentration of this gas in indoor environments.

Benefits: Reduced CO2 levels can enhance cognitive function, concentration, and overall comfort. 

TIPS

For significant air quality improvement, aim for one medium-sized plant per 9.2 square meters/ 100 square feet of space.

Areca Palm (Chrysalidocarpus Lutescens)

• Removes: All tested indoor air toxins.
• Benefits: Very popular and easy to care for plant. Leaves have a gracious flow that will soften the energy of any home or office space.
• Thrives: This plant thrives in bright, indirect light, making it suitable for rooms with ample natural light. 
• Best Locations: Consider placing it in living rooms, conservatories, or well-lit offices where it can receive plenty of sunlight without direct exposure.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry.
• Feeding: Feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).

Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea Seifrizii)

• Removes: Benzene. Trichloroethylene. Formaldehyde.
• Benefits: Adds a peaceful, tropical feeling to any environment. Most resistant to insect infestation.
• Thrives: Bamboo palms prefer indirect sunlight or partial shade, making them versatile enough for various rooms.
• Best Locations: They can thrive in living rooms, bedrooms, or even bathrooms, where they can add a tropical touch without requiring direct sunlight.
• Watering: Allow the soil to dry out partially between waterings. Water thoroughly, ensuring excess water drains away.
• Feeding: Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

Rubber Plant (Ficus Robusta)

• Removes: Most pollutants, especially formaldehyde.
• Benefits: It will survive in dim light and tolerate cool temperatures. Excellent ability to remove toxins from any indoor environment.
• Thrives:  Rubber plants can tolerate lower light levels than others, making them suitable for rooms with moderate to low light conditions. 
• Best Locations: They can thrive in living rooms, hallways, or offices with filtered or artificial light.
• Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, as rubber plants are susceptible to root rot.
• Feeding: Feed every 4-6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertiliser during the growing season, reducing frequency in winter.

English Ivy (Hedera Helix)

• Removes: Most pollutants, especially formaldehyde.
• Benefits: Can soften and lower the chi flow as needed. Easy to grow, very adaptable, except for high temperatures.
• Thrives: English ivy is adaptable and can grow in a range of light conditions, from bright indirect light to shade
• Best Locations: It's often used in kitchens, bathrooms, or bedrooms where it can help soften the space and improve air quality.
• Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
• Feeding: Feed every 4-6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertiliser during the growing season, reducing frequency in winter.

Moth Orchids (Phalaenopsis spp)

• Removes: Moth Orchids excel at absorbing toluene, commonly found in nail polish, and are effective in clearing xylene from the air, making them invaluable after painting or redecorating.
• Benefits: Renowned for their beauty and air-purifying properties, Moth Orchids enhance indoor spaces aesthetically while contributing to cleaner air.
• Thrives: Flourishing in bright, indirect light, Moth Orchids prefer temperatures between  (18-24°C) during the day, slightly cooler at night.
• Best Locations: Ideal for bedrooms due to their nocturnal oxygen release, Moth Orchids also thrive in well-ventilated areas with ample air circulation.
• Watering: Water Moth Orchids when the potting medium is nearly dry, typically every 1-2 weeks, ensuring thorough drainage to prevent root rot.
• Feeding: Provide balanced orchid fertiliser diluted to half strength every 2-4 weeks during the growing season, adjusting frequency during autumn and winter dormancy.

Chrysanthemum (Chrysantheium Morifolium)

• Removes: Chrysanthemums are effective at removing pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and ammonia from indoor air, enhancing air quality.
• Benefits: Known for their vibrant blooms and air-purifying abilities, Chrysanthemums add colour and freshness to indoor spaces while contributing to a healthier environment.
• Thrives: Thriving in bright, indirect sunlight, Chrysanthemums prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) during the day, with cooler nighttime temperatures.
• Best Locations: Ideal for living rooms, kitchens, or other well-lit areas, Chrysanthemums thrive in spaces with good air circulation and natural light.
• Watering: Water Chrysanthemums when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks, ensuring adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging.
• Feeding: Feed Chrysanthemums with a balanced liquid fertiliser diluted to half strength every 2-4 weeks during the growing season, reducing frequency during dormancy.

Money Tree (Pachira Aquatica)

• Benefits: Good for enhancing abundance
• Thrives: Money trees prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light levels. 
• Best Locations: SE Corner of your home, the area of Wealth
• Watering: Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
• Feeding: Feed every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertiliser diluted to half strength.

Studies have estimated that between 20% and 30% of the European population, approximately 10% to 20% of the Asian population, and generally a lower prevalence in Africa have a mutation of the FU2 gene. The mutation means that these people have a non-functional enzyme, making them more susceptible to infection. Some strong evidence links it to autoimmune diseases. 

What Type of Paints to Buy 

Toxic Free / No Volatile Organic Compound 

The best paints are toxic-free and do not release unhealthy gases; consider no VOX (Volatile Organic Compounds) paints. VOCs are a class of organic chemicals that can easily vaporise and be released into the air, which is known as off-gassing. While there isn’t one regulated standard for low VOC paints, most low VOC paints contain fewer than 50 grams per litre (g/L) of VOCs, while zero VOC paints contain less than 5 g/L. Be mindful that there can also be VOCs in paint pigments (which are added to the base paint for colour), and oftentimes, the number of VOCs listed on the paint tin just for the base coating, without the added pigments. 

Electro Magnetic Field Shielding Paint  

If your property is close to a 5G tower, or you are sensitive to EMFs, it is worth investing in an EMF shielding undercoat paint. These paints are usually permanent, meaning that you never need to top up, and they often claim to be 98% effective against ELF / VLF / EMR radiations. These paintings are usually grey or black, but you can paint them over with a colour of your choice. 

How to Reduce Electro Magnetic (EMF) & Radion Frequency Exposure

1. Use Natural Cleaning Products: Opt for eco-friendly and non-toxic cleaning products that are free from harsh chemicals, such as ammonia, chlorine, and synthetic fragrances. You can make your own cleaners using natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.
2. Improve Indoor Air Quality: Keep your home well-ventilated to reduce indoor air pollutants. Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to remove allergens, dust, and other contaminants from the air. Avoid smoking indoors and limit the use of candles and air fresheners that contain artificial fragrances.
3. Choose Non-Toxic Paints and Finishes: When painting or refinishing surfaces in your home, opt for low-VOC (volatile organic compound) or zero-VOC paints and finishes. These products emit fewer harmful chemicals into the air, promoting better indoor air quality.
4. Avoid Synthetic Fragrances: Synthetic fragrances found in air fresheners, candles, and household products can release harmful chemicals known as phthalates into the air. Choose fragrance-free or naturally scented products to reduce exposure to these toxins.
5. Use Natural Pest Control Methods: Instead of using chemical pesticides and insecticides, try natural pest control methods to keep insects and rodents at bay. Use traps, baits, and barriers, and seal up any entry points to prevent pests from entering your home.
6. Filter Your Water: Install a water filter to remove impurities and contaminants from your tap water, such as chlorine, lead, and pesticides. You can use a pitcher filter, faucet-mounted filter, or under-sink filtration system to ensure that your drinking water is clean and safe.
7. Choose Organic Bedding and Mattresses: Opt for organic cotton bedding and mattresses made with natural materials to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals found in conventional bedding and mattresses, such as flame retardants and synthetic fabrics.
8. Reduce Plastic Use: Minimize the use of plastic products in your home, as many plastics contain harmful chemicals like phthalates and BPA (bisphenol A). Use glass, stainless steel, or BPA-free plastics for food storage and avoid heating food in plastic containers.
9. Green Your Laundry Routine: Use eco-friendly laundry detergents and avoid fabric softeners and dryer sheets that contain synthetic fragrances and chemicals. Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible to save energy and reduce environmental impact.
10. Choose Natural Materials: Furnish your home with furniture, flooring, and decor made from natural, sustainable materials like wood, bamboo, cork, and wool. Avoid products made with synthetic materials like polyester, PVC, and acrylic, which can off-gas harmful chemicals.