How Trees Help Us
Trees are the homes of animals, and the lifelines of ecosystems. They are producers of oxygen and the storehouses of carbon dioxide. Trees are highly beneficial to people.
Here are two ways Trees Helps Us:
Trees boost immune system function.
Trees regulate temperature.
Walks in forests could be immune system boosters.
A study done in Japan shows that trees are immune system boosters. Trees produce airborne chemicals called phytoncides. Phytoncides have antibacterial and antifungal properties that help trees fight off disease and survive to produce offspring. When we walk in the forest and breathe in phytoncides, our body’s response is to produce an increased number of Natural Killer cells. Natural Killer cells help us fight off harmful bacteria. This period of increased Natural Killer cell production can last several hours or days, depending how long our walks through the forest are. Therefore, walking through forests gives us an increased number of phytoncides which improves immune system function for extended periods of time.
Trees help regulate Temperature.
Branches and leaves block sunlight, cooling ground temperatures by 10% or greater. In effect, this cooling enables animals to maintain their body temperatures. Not only are trees natural air conditioners, but their presence can reduce energy costs. By cooling your home trees can: save you money energy on bills and reduce your CO2 emissions.