As we all know houseplants are excellent indoor air cleaners. But there are some plants that are more effective than others at filtering out pollutants and toxins in the air. These are less in toxic chemicals and good for our health.
NASA research has found the best ways to clean the air in space stations. The researchers found that these plants are very beneficial at removing toxic substances like formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, benzene, xylene, and ammonia from the air that have been linked to health effects like eye irritation and headaches.
Here are the plants that NASA researchers suggest having, at least, one plant per 100 square feet of home or office and are the best natural air filters.
- Ficus (Ficus elastic)
As this plant does not need a lot of light, it is very easy to maintain. Focus plays a major role in cleansing the air of formaldehyde. But, avoid this plant from pets, and small children as this plant’s leaves can be poisonous.
- English Ivy (Hedera helix)
This awesome plant is also known for filtering airborne toxins inside your home. This plant has the ability to clean the formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, and xylene from the air. English Ivy can remove up to 58% feces particles and 60% of the toxins in the air within six hours.
- Snake plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Snake plant also can improve your indoor air quality. NASA says that it is one of the best houseplants for absorbing airborne toxins, including nitrogen oxide, formaldehyde, xylene, benzene, and trichloroethylene. It only needs very little light in order to remain healthy as it is extremely resistant. You can keep this plant in your bedroom as it is able to produce oxygen at night.
- Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
This plant has the ability to remain healthy even under minimal light and absorbs toxins present in the air, such as carbon monoxide, styrene, and formaldehyde and also gasoline. By keeping one spider plant, it will effectively purify air in almost 200 square feet of space.
- Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
This plant plays a major role in removing chemicals and toxins from the air. Peace lily filters trichloroethylene, formaldehyde, toluene, xylene, benzene and ammonia from the air. But, if you ingest any part of this plant, that is mildly toxic. If you ingest it, you may start to feel nauseous, experience difficulty when swallowing pr to feel a burning sensation in your mouth or skin. Immediately go for medical if you experience any of these symptoms.
NASA says that you should keep 15 to 18 of these plants in an area of 500 square feet, meaning 3 to 4 plants are enough for your home. Keep one of the plants in your bedroom as you spend time there too.