The myth that plants can block electrosmog persists. Cacti in particular are said to be able to shield or even absorb electromagnetic fields. But what is really true?
How does electrosmog arise and what possible effects can it have?
Electrosmog surrounds us always and everywhere. A distinction is made between low-frequency radiation, which produces both electrical and magnetic radiation. Within our own four walls, this radiation is emitted by all household appliances such as refrigerators, electric stoves, hobs, etc. High-frequency electrical radiation, also known as electromagnetic radiation, is generated by smartphones, tablets and WLAN devices as well as cordless DECT telephones, mobile phones and radios .
Whether the entirety of electrosmog has a negative effect on the human body and health is currently the subject of controversial debate. People who are sensitive to electrosmog complain of very diffuse symptoms, which is why the cause of electrosmog often remains unrecognized.
Clarifying lilies, ferns and cacti - can plants protect against electrosmog?
The myth that plants, and cacti in particular, can shield against this radiation still persists. In living spaces, plants are generally a bonus for health. Green lilies, palms, ferns and the like are said to have an air-purifying effect. They beautify the environment and at the same time convertCO2 into oxygen. Oxygen levels and humidity increase in rooms with lots of plants. Air-purifying plants can therefore help to improve the indoor climate.
But cacti are even said to be able to protect against electrosmog. Many people believe that placing a cactus next to a computer can shield it from electromagnetic radiation. A few years ago, Turkish scientists actually investigated this phenomenon.
What effects do plants have on electromagnetic radiation?
The researchers collected cacti of different types and sizes and placed them in front of and behind a wide variety of monitors – from modern liquid crystal screens to old cathode ray tubes.
In doing so, they clearly established that cacti have no influence whatsoever on electromagnetic radiation , regardless of their location. They came to the clear conclusion that a cactus neither absorbs the radiation nor acts as a shield against it. Even if many people still believe this, a cactus does not provide any protection against electrical or electromagnetic radiation.
