The interior of our home is our sanctuary, a place where we feel comfortable and relaxed.
How Houseplants Improve Air Quality
In this process, plants absorb pollutants through their leaves and roots. Microorganisms in the soil around these roots then break down these pollutants into nutrients for the plant. It's a beneficial cycle that nature has perfected over millions of years.
Some pollutants that plants can remove include formaldehyde, benzene, ammonia, and trichloroethylene. While these terms may sound foreign, we often live with these substances in our homes without even realizing it. They are often found in cleaning products, paints, varnishes, and other common household products.
Through photosynthesis, plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen into the air. That's why having indoor plants can help improve the air quality in your home, as well as add a touch of color and life.
Indoor plants that purify the air: Top 10
1. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera, well known for its benefits on the skin, is also an excellent air purifier. It releases oxygen while absorbing carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide. In addition, it is an easy plant to maintain.
2. The Spider Plant
Valued for its ease of care, the spider plant can absorb toxins in the air like formaldehyde and xylene. It is an ideal choice for cleaning the air in your home.
3. Ficus Elastica
In addition, ficus elastica greatly contributes to improving indoor air quality. This houseplant is known to reduce levels of formaldehyde, a compound that is toxic to health.
4. The Areca Palm
Areca palm is another air purifying plant that can improve humidity levels in the air, while absorbing toxins like xylene and toluene.
5. The Golden Pothos
Golden Pothos, or Devil's Ivy, is a trailing plant that effectively removes formaldehyde from the air. It can even survive in low light conditions, making it a perfect addition to an office or dark room.
6. Sansevieria
Sansevieria, also known as mother-in-law's tongue, is a popular houseplant that cleans the air by absorbing many pollutants such as benzene, trichloroethylene and xylene.
7. Ficus Ginseng
Ficus Ginseng works effectively to purify the air by absorbing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene. It will help improve the quality of the air you breathe inside your home.
8. The Philodendron
The Philodendron is appreciated for its ability to filter ammonia from the air. This plant is also very easy to maintain, you just need to water it moderately and give it a little light.
9. The Chamaedorea
Chamaedorea, or saw palmetto, helps neutralize toxic emissions from household products. Its beautiful leaves bring a touch of soothing greenery to your home while purifying the air.
10. English Ivy
English ivy is a trailing plant known for its ability to filter toxins from the air. It is also able to absorb tobacco smoke, making it an ideal houseplant for smokers or those who live with them.
Promoting Mental Well-Being with Indoor Plants
Beyond their natural beauty which delights our eyes, they have the power to bring us serenity and relaxation.
Simply because they reconnect us with nature. Our eyes are soothed by the green of the leaves, a color that evokes tranquility and renewal. By their simple presence, plants create an atmosphere conducive to relaxation.
Caring for a houseplant can provide a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Watching it grow can be a rewarding experience that helps improve self-esteem .
There is also evidence that some houseplants can help reduce stress and anxiety . For example, Aloe Vera and Philodendron are known for their calming effects. In a NASA study, English Ivy was even identified for its air quality-enhancing properties, promoting better sleep.
