Residents are being encouraged to use nature as an inside tool to enhance their emotional health during self-isolation.
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Western Jungle Co. owner Chelsea Stevens said there were many benefits from having indoor plants, as well as gardening, that people could take advantage of during this time.
The Dubbo-based business is now operating online and has started non-contact deliveries of plants.
"We have been given the go-ahead by the NSW Police Force, the Nursery and Garden Association NSW and NSW government legislation to continue operating as an essential business, the main reason being due to the high risk of people developing or who already have mental health disorders," Ms Stevens said.
"There are a lot of scientific articles on how plants can decrease stress and elevate concentration and productivity.
"A lot of people with depression and anxiety also rely on gardening as a tool to release stress and anxiety."
Ms Stevens said at the moment when panic levels were high she was trying to keep the stock of medicinal plants like aloe vera high.
"Aloe Barbadensis Vera is one that is commonly found as the main ingredient in hand sanitisers," she said.
"Aloe Vera plants placed in the bedroom can also emit oxygen which improves sleep quality."
Ms Stevens studied a Bachelor of Health Science and attained a biology degree to become a botanist before starting the business in Dubbo.
"I have kept the business in Dubbo to be able to supply the central west with these sorts of products that aren't sold other than in major tropical cities," she said.
"We do ask that, wherever possible, everyone is mindful to support small businesses, as most of us cannot handle the financial hit. This is a tough time for us all.
"We want to stay functioning and so do other small businesses. We cannot compete with the national giants so please remember to support small businesses where you can, this is a tough time for us all and we very much want to stay in Dubbo."
For more information or to place an order visit The Western Jungle Co website at thejungleplantco.com or check out the business' Facebook page.
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