Research shows that poisonous chemicals affect our air quality and are constantly around us in the air we breathe. In fact, ranked among the top 5 environmental risks to public health are indoor air pollutants. These chemicals are released indoors from furniture, cleaning products, carpets and raw building materials. Airtight design & closed ventilation traps air indoors. This is the leading cause of respiratory & allergic reactions, now formally addressed as Sick Building Syndrome. NASA scientist Dr. B.C. Wolverton conducted research experiments to create a breathable environment for lunar habitat with NASA, and his results were right before our eyes. Plants improve air quality. Houseplants are the best method to filter common chemicals like ammonia, formaldehyde, and benzene.
How can plants improve our health?
- Pause - So indoor house plants not only spice up the design of your home, but they increase our mental and physical health?! Score! It’s no secret that plants are an essential part of life. We may overlook it but they produce oxygen that makes the life cycle possible, all while adding moisture to the air and filtering pollutants. Plants are the lungs of the earth and your environment and they improve air quality
The Impact of Plants
Plants not only filter the air but they also can positively impact our health through a variety of ways. As I mentioned, they can filter toxins to create cleaner air as well as increase humidity in a given space. The mental health benefits are huge as well. For example, houseplants are proven to boost productivity and creativity, reduce stress, and even boost concentration. Although I strive to break this norm, studies show that Americans spend 90% of their entire lives indoors. Ultimately, air quality is just as important indoors as it is outdoors given the amount of time spent in each. Below find a few plants with outstanding qualities to increase your overall health & wellbeing.
Air Purifying Plants
To begin, spider plants are low maintenance to care for, which is why they're the perfect indoor plant. Despite the creepy crawly name, spider plants will survive in less than perfect conditions, however in ideal conditions they are stunning. This plant enjoys bright, indirect sunlight. Eventually, spider plants mature into blooming shoots that grow into smaller spider plants.
Pollutants removed: formaldehyde and xylene
Pair with 20 watt Aspect
Secondly, dracaena plants vary with over 40 different types and styles to fit into your office space or home. Their long, wide leaves contain vibrant color with lines of white, cream, or red. Young plants are small and bushy, making them perfect residents of desks and tabletops. Mature, healthy dracaenas can reach 5 or 6 feet tall. They're ideal for adding a bold splash of texture to your indoor decor. However, dracaenas are toxic to cats & dogs so pet owners steer clear!
Pollutants removed: benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and xylene
Pair with 20 watt Aspect
Next, the Bird’s Nest Fern is known for its ripple-edged fronds that grow out of a nest-like crown. They are a great plant to hang indoors. Super easy to care for, they thrive in indirect light and a humid environment. As a rainforest plant, the key to a healthy bird's nest fern is providing enough warmth and moisture.
Pollutants removed: formaldehyde, xylene and toluene
Next, aloe is known for its easy care & amazing health benefits. Aloe leaves contain a clear gel full all kinds of goodies such as vitamins, enzymes and amino acids. Their wound-healing, antibacterial compounds are great to have handy. Evidence shows that aloe is great for sunburn as well as skin conditions like psoriasis.
Pollutant removed: formaldehyde
Pair with 20 watt Aspect
Native to the tropical Americas, there are several hundred species of philodendrons, with more being added all the time. Philodendrons have larger, full leaves. The climbing varieties also make excellent hanging or trailing plants, as vines can fall to over 10 feet long. Plus, they are one of the easiest plants to care for and add fun energy to any space!
Pollutant removed: formaldehyde
Pair with 20 watt Aspect
Lastly, as one of the best houseplants to own, snake plants generally prefer a little sun. They’re practically impossible to kill but look really unique in an indoor setting. This easy going tropical plant has thin, upright leaves with patterns that resemble the skin of a reptile.
Pollutants removed: benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and xylene
Pair with 20 watt Aspect
If you'd like to learn more about the countless plants which can truly enhance your home and work-life please contact us. We'd be happy to guide you to a greener and fuller life.
