Integrating aromatic plants into indoor biophilic environments: Species selection based on psychophysiological effects and bioactive volatile compounds

To explore aromatic plants suitable for indoor biophilic environments and their impact on long-term indoor residents' psychophysiological health, a combined method using subjective ratings, objective electrophysiological signals, and aroma characteristics was employed. The study assessed 12 indoor plants' aromas and analyzed aroma components and their potential to intervene in psychophysiological health. Results showed that different plants had varying effects on psychophysiological health, some (e.g., Vicks Plant, rosemary) showed positive impacts across most measures, while others (e.g., basil, catnip) showed negative impacts. The aroma of false incense showed significant gender differences in its effects. Smelling Vicks Plants for 5 min significantly reduced heart rate (HR), increased heart rate variability (HRV), and enhanced vigor, positively correlated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and terpenes like linalool and limonene. Higher VOCs emission was associated with lower HR and reduced anger. Cluster analysis grouped Vicks Plant and rosemary based on aroma composition and effects on psychophysiological responses, providing a basis and framework for subsequent exploration of aromatic plants with psychophysiological regulation capabilities in indoor biophilic environments.