The air quality in our homes and offices is steadily declining. From paints to cleaning products, and compounds released by furniture and appliances, the air we breathe indoors is not as pure as many might think.
While most plants are known for producing oxygen, few people are aware that some can even purify the air in our homes, blocking volatile chemicals and toxins that we inhale, which can be harmful to our health.
Plants aren’t just decorative; they are also incredibly useful and essential for our well-being. NASA has compiled a list of the most effective indoor plants for air purification:
- Areca Palm:
- Known for its excellent air-purifying abilities, it can eliminate formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene.
- Water the areca regularly and place it in indirect sunlight, making living rooms an ideal location.
- Aloe Vera:
- Capable of purifying the air and eliminating toxins like formaldehyde and benzene found in paints and floor cleaning products.
- Keep the aloe vera plant in a sunny corner and water it sparingly.
- Pothos:
- Widely known for air purification and low maintenance, requiring infrequent watering.
- Absorbs harmful substances like formaldehyde, xylene, and benzene.
- Snake Plant (Sansevieria):
- Produces oxygen during the night and purifies the air by removing benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, xylene, and toluene.
- Resilient and requires minimal water, adapts well to low-light spaces.
- Swedish Ivy:
- Effective in eliminating contaminants like benzene, formaldehyde, and toluene.
- Note: Toxic to children, dogs, and cats, so keep it out of their reach. Place it in a well-lit corner away from direct sunlight and water it once a week.
- Gerbera Daisy:
- Produces high levels of oxygen at night and eliminates harmful substances like benzene and trichloroethylene.
- Beneficial for people with respiratory conditions. Suitable for bedrooms but needs direct sunlight in spring, summer, and fall, and indirect light in winter.
- Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum):
- Removes toxins and harmful compounds from the air. Non-toxic to pets.
- Can be placed anywhere and is easy to propagate.
- Ficus Benjamin (Fiddle Leaf Fig):
- Absorbs and reduces levels of formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene.
- Delicate plant, prefers well-lit areas without direct sunlight or drafts.
- Chrysanthemum:
- Filters a variety of toxins, including ammonia and benzene, commonly found in plastics, detergents, and adhesives.
- Enjoys sunlight and should be watered when the soil feels dry to the touch.
By incorporating these plants into your living spaces, you not only enhance the aesthetics but also contribute to a healthier indoor environment.
