THE ROLE OF PLANTS IN DIFFERENT ASPECTS OF HUMAN LIFE WITH FOCUS ON MENTAL HEALTH

Abstract

Urbanization leads to the exploitation and occupation of green areas, contributing to a high degree of their fragmentation. In this way, the habitats of plants and animals are endangered, which has a very negative effect on biodiversity within cities. These consequences of urbanization require innovative concepts of urban design that will increase the quality of life in urban areas.This paper presents ways of introducing plants into cities, and presents their importance in improving the quality of life in urban areas. Given that there is a higher percentage of mental health problems in cities than in rural areas, special emphasis is placed on the role of green areas and plants indoors in improving the mental state of people, and in preserving their mental health. The results of numerous researches that contribute to the understanding of the effect of plants on the quality of life in urban areas are given.