Some might say that a plant makes a house a home. Besides being a great addition to any corner of a room, it’s more sustainable than a bunch of flowers. More often than not, however, people buy house plants simply for aesthetic reasons, overlooking the many benefits that come with them.
The World Health Organisation estimated that 7 million people die from pollution every year. Luckily for us, however, research has indicated that certain house plants act as a natural filter to indoor pollution. The benefits don’t stop there; plants have also shown to lower stress levels at home and in the workplace and, if that’s not enough, also boast the additional health benefits such as they help you sleep better, fight colds, focus and improve your wellbeing.
Areca Palm
Areca palms filter out harsh chemicals including acetone, xylene and toluene, which accumulate from products such as nail varnish, detergents, wooden furniture, poor ventilation, gasoline, cosmetics etc.
Philodendron
The philodendron plant purifies air by removing formaldehyde, which tends to occur from building materials and home furnishings. Formaldehyde occurs naturally and becomes threatening only through long-term exposure by inhalation.
Rubber Plant
Rubber plants improve indoor air as their large surface leaves act as a sponge and absorb harsh chemicals then break them down. The plant has shown to absorb carbon dioxide and convert it into breathable oxygen.
Peace Lily
Peace lilies have shown to improve indoor air quality by up to 60%. The plant absorbs mold spores which commonly occur from dust inside. The plant reduces levels of mold spores through absorbing them as food. The plant can be useful in areas of high humidity – like bathrooms for example, as it will keep the mold at bay.
Dracaena
Dracaena plants have shown to be one of the most effective air filters. The plant removes formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene and carbon dioxide – all of which are linked to health problems. Dracaena plants also tend to increase the humidity of a room which in turn helps to control respiratory distresses.
Snake Plant
The Snake Plant is extremely effective in its ability to absorb harsh chemicals like carbon monoxide, benzene, formaldehyde and other harsh chemicals found in indoor air. The plant also produces oxygen, absorbs CO2 in the night and has proven to be beneficial for airborne allergies.
Aloe Vera
The trusted Aloe Vera plant has been used for generations by people with sunburns or skin conditions. The gel inside Aloe Vera leaves are a natural anti-bacterial and are packed full of vitamins. Additionally, the plant acts as a natural air purifier and reduces toxic chemicals including formaldehyde and benzene – two chemicals that are present in cleaning products.
English Ivy
English Ivy can stimulate mucus glands and contains expectorant properties, which can help people with breathing difficulties. The leaves are actually used as medicine to reduce blockage and swelling of airway passages. The plant is also used medicinally to improve lung health, liver disorders, spleen disorders and others.
Boston Fern
Alongside being a natural air filter, the Boston Fern also restores natural moisture to the air. In fact, the plant has shown to be effective for people with dry skin or irritable noses or throats due to their moisturising properties.
Spider plant
The Spider Plant is an antioxidant as it effectively removes ammonia, benzene, formaldehyde and xylene – harsh chemicals that occur from cleaning products and furniture. The plant is extremely easy to grow and quickly improves air quality. A study found that within just two days, the plant removed up to 90 per cent of the toxins found in indoor air.
So, if you want to breathe a little easier; maybe try buying yourself some house plants, or if you already own some then you’re one step ahead.
