It’s estimated that the average person spends about 92% of their time indoors. The remaining percentage is occupied by the outdoors and time in transit. The Environmental Protection Agency is, however, disturbed by this statistic. They actually advocate for more outdoor time. They argue that most air pollutants are highly concentrated indoors than outdoors. So, you are more likely to experience health complications from indoor pollution than outdoor contamination. The conditions include bronchitis, asthma, heart attack, and lung cancer.
So, what do you have to do to be safe indoors? You probably are aware of artificial means of improving indoor air quality like the use of HVAC and fans. These options can be expensive to install and maintain. What if there was a cheap and eco-friendly option? Wouldn’t you want it? Actually, there are. They come in the form of houseplants. Basically, the indoor plants will not just beautify your home but will purify air to improve its quality. In the long run, these plants are able to improve your health. Here are 9 top considerations:
- Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
If you are the forgetful type of person, then your ideal household plant is Spider Plant. This plant grows at a high pace and does not demand so much light. Additionally, it grows in a variety of soil types and does not need so much watering. The soil is able to hold water for long and so you don’t have to irrigate it regularly. So, if you are looking for an option that won’t take much of your time, then you should go for Spider Plant. It’s great at removing xylene, formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, and other serious air pollutants.
- Barberton Daisy (Gerbera jamesonii)
Barberton Daisy is a plant species that originates from East Africa. It’s known for its colorful and lively flowers. Though it’s popular in the outdoors, it’s also an incredible option for the indoors. The plant purifies indoor air much faster than most plants. It’s able to get rid of powerful toxins like formaldehyde and benzene at a fast pace. To get the plant to flower and looking beautiful, you just have to keep the soil moist and give it maximum light. The advantage is that Barberton Daisy can withstand varying temperature. So, there’s no need trying to regulate it.
- European Ivy (Hedera helix)
Also known as English Ivy, the European Ivy is a great household plant that effectively filters indoor air to get rid of stubborn toxins like xylene, toluene, and benzene. Additionally, the plant can be used to get rid of mold. So, it’s a great option for individuals who are prone to respiratory complications like asthma and bronchitis. It’s an equally popular option for the outdoors. The plant is evergreen all year round and is naturally a climbing type. So, you can expect it to reach the roof over time if its growth is not controlled.
- Aloe Plant (Aloe Vera)
You must be aware of the amazing benefits of Aloe Vera on your skin and hair as most cosmetic products contain it. What you probably don’t know is the fact that Aloe Vera is a great absorbent of indoor air toxins. You can use it to purify your indoor air. Besides, you can always use a part of the plant to treat wounds and burns as it’s a powerful antiseptic. To get the best out of Aloe Vera, you have to moisten the soil regularly and provide plenty of sunlight.
- Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Sometimes known as the Mother-in-Law Tongue, the Snake Plant is an evergreen plant that you would want to grow indoors. It’s actually one of the best absorbers of airborne pollutants and toxins like formaldehyde, xylene, and nitrogen oxide. The plant originates from West Africa but now enjoys global popularity because of its ability to purify indoor air. It’s able to tolerate low-light conditions, even though it prefers bright light. Provided that you don’t overwater it, Snake Plant will grow amazingly.
- Lavender Plant (Lavendula species)
Very few plants are as beautiful and aromatic as lavender. The flowers are pretty and emit a pleasant smell that creates an inviting aura at home. But this is not the only benefit attached to this decorative plant. Putting the plant in your bedroom allows you to sleep better. It provides relief from insomnia, anxiety, and restlessness. You just have to give it enough water and sunlight for it to thrive.
- Flamingo Lily (Anthurium andraeanum)
Sometimes referred to as Laceleaf, Flamingo Lily is one of the most gorgeous evergreen plants on the planet. The flowers are beautiful and are bound to inspire any indoor space. The plant is quite effective in eliminating pollutants like formaldehyde, xylene, and ammonia. The problem is that it’s too demanding. You have to provide it with enough indirect light and relative humidity. For example, if the relative humidity drops below 50%, the plant may easily die. Moreover, the plant is toxic and thus shouldn’t be ingested.
- Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum aureum)
Often referred to as Golden Pothos, the Devil’s Ivy is a popular household plant around the world. It features beautiful heart-shaped leaves and evergreen vines. Its display is just magical. You’ll find this plant sold as decorations in most places. It’s not just beautiful but also purposeful in refining indoor air. It can comfortably eliminate benzene, formaldehyde, and other powerful toxins. You just have to ensure that it’s placed closed to the window for it to achieve optimal growth. Like Flamingo Lily, Devil’s Ivy is toxic when ingested, more so by pets.
- Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum species)
Drawing suggestions from its name, Peace Lily is considered a peaceful indoor plant. It’s one of the easiest houseplants to care for and has a simple evergreen appearance. It does not need so much water and light. In fact, you shouldn’t direct so much light to its direction as the leaves may be scorched. Peace Lily is quite effective in getting rid of volatile toxins like Trichloroethylene and formaldehyde. The main concern, however, is that the plant is mildly poisonous when ingested.
Closing Thought:
Plants are generally important for your health. They are the closest thing you can have to Mother Nature when they are established indoors. In addition to improving indoor air quality and getting rid of airborne toxins, they are a great home décor. You are likely to draw motivation from them when you are at home relaxing.
