Here are 6 houseplants that can improve the air quality inside the house and are backed by science. With growing pollution and changing weather, common pollutants like formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene circulate within closed spaces, leading to headaches, eye irritation, and chronic respiratory fatigue over time, and most people end up ignoring these symptoms. However, buying expensive air purifiers isn’t a feasible option for most people, and that’s where nature comes in to help with some simple plants that can totally change the air inside your house with their filtering power.
What studies say According to a research in Biological Phytoremediation gained significant momentum through the landmark 1989 NASA Clean Air Study led by Dr. Because it is mildly toxic if eaten, pet owners should keep Peace Lily out of reach. B.C. Wolverton proved that indoor plants can remove organic compounds through root microbes and stomatal respiration. Later studies published in Environmental Science and Pollution Research confirm that houseplants improve air quality by absorbing volatile chemicals and trapping airborne particles on leaf surfaces. Snake Plant Snake plant, also known as Mother-in-Laws Tongue and Sansevieria trifasciata is one of the indoor plants you can find. It has straight sword-shaped leaves that have bright yellow edges. Most plants give out oxygen only when it is light. Snake plant uses Crassulacean Acid Metabolism to turn carbon dioxide into oxygen all the time even at night. This makes snake plant a plant for bedrooms. Studies that have been reviewed by scientists show that snake plant can lower the air levels of benzene, formaldehyde, xylene and toluene. Snake plant has a waxy skin that lets it survive with very little care. Snake plant needs a little water and can live well in low light. Spider Plant Chlorophytum comosum, commonly known as the spider plant makes arching and-white striped leaves that grow small offshoots over time. It adapts easily to indoor temperatures and soil types making it a good plant for beginners or busy people. Tests published by the American Society for Horticultural Science show that spider plant is a filter for removing formaldehyde, carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide. In rooms healthy spider plants removed more than ninety percent of the target toxins in twenty-four hours. Peace Lily Peace Lily scientifically called Spathiphyllum is known for its shiny dark leaves and elegant white spathe flowers. It is more than a plant. Peace Lily cleans the air by neutralizing harsh industrial chemicals. NASA laboratory testing shows that Peace Lily can clear levels of benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, xylene and ammonia. Peace Lily also releases moisture into air by transpiration, which helps keep dust spores and indoor allergens low. Golden Pothos Golden Pothos, also called Devils Ivy or Epipremnum aureum has heart-shaped leaves with patterns along its vines. It grows well in hanging baskets or on climbing trellises. Can handle changing temperatures and irregular watering. Tests show that Golden Pothos is a plant for removing volatile organic compounds, especially benzene and formaldehyde from car exhaust and carpet backing. Researchers at the University of Washington studied modified Golden Pothos that can break down chloroform and benzene faster than normal indoor filters. Aloe Vera Aloe Vera is a sun-loving famous for the soothing gel inside its fleshy serrated leaves. It is used as a first-aid remedy for burns and also signals the purity of the air around it. Studies show that Aloe Vera can absorb formaldehyde and benzene that are found in household detergents and floor finishes. When the air has many chemicals Aloe Vera leaves often develop small brown spots, which warns that indoor air has high pollution. Boston Fern Boston Fern, scientifically called Nephrolepis exaltata has feather-like fronds that spread to make a deep green canopy. It likes moisture, bright indirect light and high humidity like in bathrooms or well-ventilated kitchens. Research shows that Boston Fern is one of the plants, for removing airborne formaldehyde. Its thick leaves absorb metals and gas toxins and also keep indoor air from drying out during cold winter months. You use AI every day. Now get your AI Quotient. Take the AIQ test Get the latest Lifestyle News and more. Download the TOI app.