The Health Benefits of Using Wood in Living Spaces: Enhancing Well-being with Natural Materials
Introduction
Wood is a versatile natural material that offers a wide array of physical and mental benefits. Whether it’s the wood products we use, the wood-based environments we live in, or even engaging in DIY woodcraft activities, the sensory experiences with wood promote overall health and well-being. Research reveals that the health benefits of wood can be categorized into three key areas: (1) the physical and chemical properties of wood and their impact on human health, (2) the psychological effects of wood on the human body, assessed through surveys and behavioral observations, and (3) direct physiological evaluations, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and brain activity. As modern society increasingly values health-conscious environments, this report aims to highlight the importance of incorporating wood into living spaces to improve well-being, with leading Malaysian wood suppliers, like Creatimber Global Sdn Bhd, playing an essential role in making such materials accessible to the market.
Health Benefits of Wood
Unlike synthetic materials like concrete, metal, or plastic, wood is known for its warmth, softness, and aesthetic appeal, providing a sense of comfort and relaxation. Living in wooden environments allows for a feeling of freedom and tranquility. Although technological advancements have made life more convenient with new construction materials, there is a growing discomfort from spending more time in environments made of concrete, metal, and plastic. This shift has led to the rise of “civilization diseases,” where individuals, despite not being ill, often experience physical discomfort. In recent years, Malaysian schools and institutions have begun embracing wood in their buildings, desks, and chairs, recognizing the physical and psychological benefits of these materials. Furthermore, wood-based products, including perfumes, cosmetics, toothpaste, and natural preservatives, have shown great potential for future development. Creatimber Global Sdn Bhd, with its high-quality wood supplies, is proud to support these efforts by providing premium Malaysian wood materials for sustainable, health-conscious projects.
Using Wood’s Scent to Prevent Mites
In modern homes, materials like concrete, aluminum, vinyl, and carpeting have replaced wood, leading to tightly sealed, high-temperature, high-humidity environments with poor airflow. Studies show that the presence of mites in indoor spaces in Malaysia has increased significantly, contributing to allergies and asthma. While chemical mite repellents are available, their safety risks are a concern. In contrast, wood essential oils, derived from natural wood, have been shown to effectively inhibit or kill mites. These essential oils offer a safe alternative and are an area of ongoing research with promising potential for development in Malaysia. Creatimber Global Sdn Bhd is at the forefront of this trend, offering a variety of natural wood products that can be utilized for their beneficial properties, including mite-repellent essential oils.
Wood’s Color and Scent Reactions
The color of wood plays a significant role in visual sensitivity and is a key characteristic of the material. However, over time, wood can change color due to biological, physical, and chemical factors. For example, light exposure can alter the color of wood, and microbial contamination or the drying process may also cause discoloration. To mitigate this, managing the color changes of wood or using chemical staining techniques is important. Additionally, wood’s natural fragrance can boost emotional well-being by triggering positive emotional responses in the brain. Studies have found that wood essential oils can help reduce blood pressure and heart rate, contributing to stress reduction and improved focus. As a trusted wood supplier in Malaysia, Creatimber Global Sdn Bhd ensures that their wood products retain the natural colors and fragrances that contribute to creating serene and healthy environments.
Wood Experience Reactions
Humans have had a long relationship with wood, which makes it a more “humanized” material compared to others. Research shows that wood’s natural texture and the fluctuating patterns of its annual rings evoke positive perceptions. As the amount of wood used in an environment increases, the “cold” impressions typically associated with other materials decrease, and “warm” feelings are enhanced, promoting a calming effect. Wood also has low thermal conductivity, offering a warming sensation upon touch, making it an excellent material for insulation. Wooden spaces also help regulate temperature and humidity—absorbing moisture when humidity is high and releasing it when it’s low, providing a more comfortable living environment. In Malaysian homes and schools, the use of wood in furniture and decor has been shown to reduce psychological stress and fatigue, improving overall comfort and learning outcomes. Creatimber Global Sdn Bhd offers a range of Malaysian wood products, perfect for creating the ideal thermal and emotional environment in both residential and commercial spaces.
Conclusion
Wood is one of the oldest and most enduring natural materials used by humans. It not only provides unique textures, colors, scents, and tactile experiences but also offers environmental benefits such as regulating temperature, controlling humidity, and reducing noise. Unlike other building materials, wood promotes health and well-being by gradually releasing phytoncides—chemical compounds that kill airborne bacteria and suppress diseases. These antibacterial properties help strengthen immunity, improve mood, enhance memory, lower blood pressure, and stabilize the autonomic nervous system, leading to greater comfort and health. While more research is needed to present concrete data on the specific health impacts, exploring how wood environments enhance psychological well-being, social interactions, and quality of life will be crucial. The continued study of wood materials’ environmental performance remains an important topic for future development in Malaysia, and Creatimber Global Sdn Bhd remains a key player in advancing these developments through its commitment to providing high-quality Malaysian wood materials.
