Have you heard of formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene? They are all air pollutants that can be found inside your house. Indoor air pollution can trigger a number of health problems in people. The easiest way to purify the air inside your house is through indoor plants. The ‘Clean Air Study’ carried out by the National Aeronautics Space Administration (NASA) had found that there are a number of plants that can purify the air inside our homes. They can remove germs, dust and toxins and help you breathe fresher air indoors.
Do you think that you are not a ‘plant person’? Well, think again. Having plants in your house will not only result in cleaner air but also pretty corners and pictures for Instagram. Moreover, you won’t have to burn a hole in your pocket by investing in expensive air purifiers.
# Aloe VeraIs there anything this super-plant cannot do? Probably not. Aloe vera is excellent at cleaning benzene and formaldehyde from the air inside your house. These toxins are found in floor finishes, varnishes and detergents. Apart from cleaning the air, you can also use it to treat cuts and burns very effectively.
Taking care: Water once every 2-3 weeks and ensure it gets consistent sunlight
# Peace LilyThis is one of the top indoor plants that help in cleaning the air. Peace lilies help by breaking down and neutralizing toxic gases like carbon monoxide, acetone, trichloroethylene, formaldehyde and benzene. Not only can they improve air quality by 60%, but they can also keep shower curtains and tiles free from mildew.
Taking care: Water once a week and keep in medium, indirect sunlight.
# Chrysanthemum
Think flowering plants are for décor only? Chrysanthemums help in filtering many toxins including benzene and ammonia. These toxins are found abundantly inside the house in objects like plastics, glue and detergents. You can keep chrysanthemums in your living room or kitchen to brighten up any corner while enjoying its benefits.
Taking care: Place it near a window that receives plenty of sunlight.
# Snake PlantThis is one of the easiest plants to take care of. If you have no prior experience of taking care of plants, opt for a snake plant. Also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, it is known for filtering toxic gases. Not just that, these yellow-tipped succulents release a lot of oxygen at night that can help you breathe better while you are asleep.
The best place for a snake plant is inside the bedroom. While most plants produce carbon dioxide at night, snake plants continue to produce a lot of oxygen.
Taking care: Do not overwater as the roots can rot in moist soil.
# Spider PlantDo you find spiders to be scary? This plant is anything but scary. Another great option for houseplant newbies, spider plants can battle carbon monoxide and xylene very effectively. Xylene is a solvent used in rubber and printing industries and is very harmful to humans. This plant is also very pet-friendly.
Taking care: They pretty much take care of themselves. You can repot the tiny plants and have a whole lot of low maintenance natural air purifiers inside your house.