Estimates show people spend approximately 90% of their time indoors, demonstrating the significant impact indoor air quality (IAQ) can have on one’s health. IAQ can become toxic from a host of factors including building materials, flame retardants on furniture, central heating and cooling systems, cleaning chemicals, pets, mold, phthalate-containing air fresheners, scented candles, biological particles: fungi, bacteria, and pollen among others. As a result, indoor air pollutants tend to be two to five times more toxic than outdoor concentrations, according to the EPA. Fortunately, plants have an incredible ability to filter and purify air!
The following are NASA-approved plants for filtering toxic indoor-air:
Aloe Vera (Aloe vera):
Easy to grow and difficult to kill, Aloe vera filters benzene and formaldehyde – a common chemical found in paint, chemical cleaners, and candles. This plant is also great for sunburns and other skin aliments. Just break off a piece and lather the succulent gel over the skin. Perfect for sunny locations in the house, like next to a kitchen window. Toxic to cats and dogs so keep out of reach!
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum spp.):
Another easy to care for indoor-plant, peace lily filters benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethyle-ne, xylene, toluene, and ammonia! With an ability to cope with poor lighting conditions, keep them almost anywhere in the home or office, but avoid areas with cold drafts. This plant is also toxic to cats and dogs if ingested so bare that in mind!
Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii):
Who wouldn’t love this pretty palm in their living room? This palm filters benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethyle-ne, xylene, and toluene! BONUS: This plant is non-toxic to pet cats and dogs.
English ivy (Hedera helix):
English ivy is another beautiful, powerful air filter for the household. English ivy filters benzene, formaldehyde,
trichloroethyle-ne, xylene, and toluene. This one is toxic to cats and dogs so keep out of reach if needed. Ivy’s are beautiful hanging plants!
Happy Living!