The oxygen-giving, stress-relieving nature of houseplants makes them a key component of any internal environment. However, their benevolence doesn’t stop there; studies have shown that some indoor plants also have incredible capabilities to cleanse the air of harmful toxins and pollutants.
There is a vast plethora of indoor plants that are not only easy and low-maintenance to tend but can effectively remove toxins from indoor air. They absorb toxic substances like benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, xylene, and ammonia from the atmosphere, thus improving the quality of air we breathe.
The first plant on our list is the Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum). This beautiful green and white cascading plant is an excellent choice for beginners and those without a green thumb as it is drought-resistant, low-maintenance, and can thrive in a variety of conditions. This plant is prolific in its growth and can tolerate a certain level of neglect. Studies have indicated that Spider plants absorb carbon monoxide and xylene, a solvent used in the printing and rubber industries. With its easy propagation and proven air-purifying abilities, the Spider plant makes an excellent addition to indoor spaces.
Another top-contender known for air-purifying merits is the Snake Plant, also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue (Sansevieria trifasciata). It is a resilient species that prefers low light conditions and only needs occasional watering. Snake plants are known for their night-time oxygen production, making them great for bedrooms. They are especially potent in removing benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, xylene, and toluene from the air.
If you’re looking for a vibrant, patterned plant that simultaneously works as a potent air cleanser, consider the Red-edged Dracaena (Dracaena marginata). Besides being visually pleasing, it is one of the most efficient plants at removing formaldehyde, which is commonly found in chemical cleaning products, paper towels, and personal care products. The dracaena marginata also removes benzene, trichloroethylene, and xylene.
The English Ivy (Hedera helix) is another extremely adaptive plant and does effectively in purifying the air of toxins, particularly formaldehyde. It is a climbing species, meaning it can make an artistic statement in your home while providing you with cleaner, healthier air.
On the path of climbers, Pothos, or Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum aureum), holds an exceptional spot. These plants are substantial growers and incredibly aesthetic, with their heart-shaped, variegated foliage. They help to purify indoor air of many toxins, including benzene and formaldehyde. Pothos plants also have a unique skill; they can filter out and degrade toluene.
The Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata ‘Bostoniensis’) has been hailed as one of the foremost efficient natural air purifiers. They are known for removing formaldehyde and xylene from the air, though they do require a little more upkeep than some of the other plants on this list.
The Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) excels in the removal of air toxins – specifically, ammonia, benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. The Peace Lily also increases humidity, making it an ideal plant for those with dry skin or live in dry climates.
Meanwhile, the Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii) can achieve up to several feet in height whilst still maintaining its air-purifying qualities. Particularly effective at removing formaldehyde, the Bamboo Palm also filters out benzene and trichloroethylene.
Finally, the Barberton Daisy (Gerbera jamesonii) is a colorful and effective plant for purifying indoor air. Besides adding a bright color boost to your home, it removes benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene from the air.
Many of these plants have been proven effective by NASA’s Clean Air Study, which was set out to research necessary methods of air purification for space living. The study revealed that certain commonly found houseplants could effectively filter formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, and more from the environment, making the air cleaner and safer to breathe.
Despite the myriad benefits, it should be noted that while these plants do an excellent job of filtering certain toxins from the air, they are not a magic bullet. It’s important to maintain a clean, well-ventilated environment and to limit the use of products that produce harmful pollutants in the first place.
Additionally, while houseplants contribute to improved air quality, they might be toxic to pets if ingested. Therefore, ensure you choose pet-safe plants or keep them out of reach.
With the rising awareness of the importance of indoor air quality, these toxin-absorbing houseplants have come to the limelight. Not only they look lovely and add a touch of nature to our indoor decor, but they also work hard to clean the air we breathe. A plant-filled home can be a healthier home and having these air-purifying plants can lead us one step closer to that goal. With plants that remove toxins from air at your disposal, indoor pollution is one less thing to worry about.
