As you age, you may find yourself spending more and more time indoors. With closed windows and air pollution from the synthetic materials of the curtains and carpets, the quality of air indoors may be at stake. As such, you will need countermeasure for such hazards. According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), indoor plants can absorb and filter out harmful air pollutants, reducing more than 60% of toxins in your home. Not only do houseplants improve your health, but they can also beautify your home and boost your mood. Read on to find out which indoor plants can help improve your wellbeing.
Peace Lily
The peace lily is as pleasant as it sounds, topping NASA’s list in its ability to purify the air. It helps to remove ammonia fumes and trichloroethylene gas released by paint and furniture. It requires minimal upkeep and will alert you of needing water when its leaves droop.
Chrysanthemum
The chrysanthemum is a great addition to the kitchen as it filters out toxins like ammonia and benzines, which are found in household cleaners. Put it in any spot where the sun hits and it will happily thrive.
Monstera Plant
The monstera plant humidifies the room by adding water vapor during photosynthesis. This helps in relieving dry skin or a sore throat. It is also a great first plant for beginners as it is easy to maintain.
Areca Palm
The stylish areca palm is able to absorb toluene, a family of harmful substances common in items like nail polish remover and glue, and other harmful gases from furniture and dyes that may cause cancer and skin irritation.
Rubber Plant
The rubber plant removes formaldehyde, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide from the air. This is also a great plant for those with pollen allergies as it rarely blooms when kept indoors. Thriving in dry climates, it only needs to be watered once a week.
Aloe Vera
Best known for its healing benefits, the aloe vera is also better than most air purifiers at improving air quality. It can eliminate pollutants like formaldehyde and absorb dust from the air. Make sure to put it where the sun shines as it prefers to grow in sunnier locations.
Bamboo Palm
The bamboo palm’s large surface area is especially good at producing negative ions. These ions attach themselves to germs, viruses, dust, and mold spores and fall to the ground to make them easy to sweep away. It can also remove benzene and formaldehyde gases.
English Ivy
Pretty in a hanging basket or a pot, the English ivy is another good plant to put in the bathroom. It reduces formaldehyde and other air pollutants most commonly found in the bathroom. Choose this if you want an easy plant as it can adapt to most conditions.
Dragon Tree
The dragon tree is a good choice for a bathroom plant or any other location with humid air. It is great at removing toxins like xylene and formaldehyde. It can tolerate a wide variety of conditions, making it an easy plant to keep.
