The uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus lockdown has led to people preparing themselves mentally for quite a few weeks stuck inside at home. In such a scenario, detoxifying the indoor air seems a necessity more than a luxury. And, what better way to naturally purify the air than planting a few indoor plants? These indoor houseplants not only give homes an aesthetically pretty vibe, but also work wonders in removing dust and toxins from the air. In fact, NASA’s Clean Air Study has found certain plant species highly effective in improving indoor air quality. UppWell presents you with the list of some of the most effective air purifying indoor plants.
If you end up choosing any of the plants below for your home, don’t forget about our elegant indoor plant stand, made from sustainable wood.
Rubber Tree
Ficus or the Rubber Plant absorbs and breaks down toxic chemicals such as formaldehyde from the air. Formaldehyde is a commonly found indoor colourless gas that is emitted from wooden furnishings, wood-burning fireplaces, and oil-burning appliances. High concentrations of Formaldehyde in the air are harmful to the human body as they can cause problems like a burning sensation, breathing problems and asthma. The Ficus is also known to convert carbon dioxide into oxygen as well as remove small quantities of other toxic gases such as xylene, benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. This plant thrives in ambient temperatures, moderate sunlight and does not take overwatering well.
English Ivy
According to NASA’s Clean Air Study, English Ivy, also known as Hedera helix, is the number one indoor plant for air purification. English Ivy is a vine that adapts well to almost all types of conditions – from direct sunlight to constant shade. The ideal place to keep the English Ivy is inside the bathroom as it reduces indoor fecal particles and combats mold. Grow them either in hanging containers or plant them in one of those stylish indoor planters.
Aloe Vera
A healing plant with countless medicinal properties, Aloe Vera is the ideal succulent to keep on the window sill. It removes the airborne benzene and formaldehyde particles to make the indoor air clean and pure. It needs ample sunlight and very little water for its growth as it belongs to the cactus family. This non-fussy indoor plant will not only purify your air but will also be helpful to treat minor cuts and burns.
Snake Plant (Mother-In-Law’s Tongue)
A yellow-tipped, low-maintenance succulent, the Snake Plant is ideal to purify the indoor air. It removes toxic chemicals such as Trichloroethylene, Benzene, Formaldehyde, and Xylene. Also known as the Mother-In-Law’s Tongue, it releases fresh oxygen at night. With the ability to survive toughest conditions like less water and harsh weather, this indoor plant is a perfect addition to your indoor plant stand in the bedroom. The only thing to be kept in mind while growing the Snake’s Plant is to not overwater it.
Chrysanthemum
Add a pop of colour to your living room by placing a pot of the beautiful Chrysanthemum on your indoor plant stand. Considered to be one of the best natural air purifiers, these colourful blooms filter out scores of toxins like Benzene and Ammonia effectively. They grow better in bright areas with good airflow. The Chrysanthemum plant prefers to be nourished with warm water.
We are blissfully unaware that various household items like detergents, plastics and wooden appliances produce small quantities of toxic chemicals. These toxins remain suspended in the air. Indoor plants do a great job of filtering the air of these unwanted chemicals and releasing fresh oxygen. Ensure you breathe healthy and clean air by planting these indoor beauties. They’ll not only brighten up your indoor spaces and add a beautiful green element to your décor, but will also reward you with clean and oxygenated air.
