NASA studies over the years have proven what many people have long suspected — that houseplants can filter toxins out of the air inside buildings. With homes tightly shut up for protection against the elements and fresh air exchange at a minimum in the winter, having a few extra house plants around to help to clean the air can only make the cold season easier and healthier for all, especially those spending long periods of time cooped up indoors. Having plants in the home is not only good for the air and for breathing quality, it is also a nice way to boost your mood by having a touch of living and growing vegetation to nurture around. Here my picks for the 5 best air-purifying houseplants.
The 5 Best Air-Purifying Houseplants Photo Credit : Aimee Tucker
Aloe Vera
This sun-loving succulent helps to clear the air of particles of formaldehyde and benzene, which can be a byproduct of chemical-based cleaners and paints. In addition to the air cleaning, the gel inside the aloe plant can help heal cuts and burns. Simply break a small piece off the tip of the plant and squeeze the natural gel onto the wound.
Spider Plant
The common and easy-to-care-for spider plant helps to absorb benzene, formaldehyde and carbon monoxide in the home. With all these benefits, why not have a few spider plants in various rooms throughout your living and office space?
Ficus
Choose a small Ficus plant for a room or a large Ficus tree for bigger spaces to filter out pollutants such as benzene and the chemical trichloroethylene, which may be found in carpeting and furniture.
Snake Plant, a.k.a. Mother-in-Law’s Tongue
This shiny green, variegated plant with spiny tips is one of the best for filtering out formaldehyde. Easy to care for, the snake plant requires minimal water and care.
Peace Lily
This lovely plant, often given as an Easter gift, is known to combat formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene toluene and xylene — all chemicals that are toxic to breathe in large doses.
Those are my picks for best air-purifying plants. Now tell me which houseplants are your favorites.
Shelley Wigglesworth
Shelley (Fleming) Wigglesworth is an award-winning freelance journalist from Maine and a certified Maine Master Gardener who writes gardening articles on a regular basis for NewEngland.com. Her work can be found in the following publications: The Village Magazine, York County Coast Star, Yankee Magazine (online), National Fisherman Magazine, Commercial Fisheries News, Points East Magazine, Coastal Angler Magazine and The Maine Lobstermen's Association's "Landings."
