These days air pollution is becoming more and more of a threat. Specifically, indoor air pollution is becoming worse yet it doesn’t receive as much attention as it should. Studies show that indoor pollutants are twice as high as outdoors. This is a cause for concern as residents are reportedly spending up to 90% of their lives holed up in air-tight buildings. As a result, urban-dwellers are more likely to develop chronic illnesses.

Pollutants found in air-tight buildings have an adverse effect on physical & mental health. These include over 400 different chemical and inorganic compounds which you could be breathing every day. Residents of poor air-filtration homes who are exposed to these compounds are at bigger risk. Of those, children are most vulnerable. It is no wonder, then, that asthma is the most common respiratory illness among this age group.

How can you improve air circulation in your home?

You might think that filtration systems Improve Air Circulation but this isn’t entirely accurate. A study has shown that lots of air purifiers are ineffective in reducing air pollutants. In fact, some may even be harmful as they contribute to higher levels of ozone. These reportedly exceed safety levels determined by the US Environmental Protection Agency.

The best solution: get some air-purifying houseplants.

Indeed, there is no better cost-effective method than the biological-based purification of houseplants. These eliminate the gas pollutants by utilising them as carbon source to maintain or multiply cells. Although it’s uncertain how much of a difference it makes, it is certain to offer psychological and aesthetic benefits. Greening your indoors with houseplants is the perfect way to gain environmental and social benefits. These include decreased CO2 concentration which improve cognitive functions, such as decision making. 

So which air-purifying plants should you get? 

Rubber Plant – Ficus elastica Robusta 

Deemed as one of the best air-purifying plants according to NASA, it is also extremely easy to care for. The Rubber plant absorbs harmful toxins such as formaldehyde and carbon monoxide. It also looks beautiful with its glossy, wide foliage that can grow up to several meters in height. Don’t worry, however, as it can be easily maintained with an occasional trim.  This houseplant thrives in bright, indirect light but will also cope in less bright conditions. It requires only moderate watering and does perfectly fine in regular household temperatures.

Spider Plant – Chlorophytum comosum

You will find that the Spider plant is extremely common in office settings. This houseplant is a perfect choice for any commercial or residential environment. This little gem can thrive year-round due to its resilient nature and is therefore a great choice for beginners. Its pure green leaves cascade down into a glorious fountain of foliage, which adds a dash of sophistication to your office space. It copes well in a multitude of lighting conditions and requires proper drainage after watering. 

Dragon Tree – Dracaena fragrans ‘Massangeana’  

Despite its majestic name, the Dracaena fragrans is an enchanting little houseplant that wards off evil by ridding your interiors of nasty air pollutants. Equipped with its sword-shaped leaves, this vibrant, green shrub will protect you against harmful compounds. Deemed as one of the best plants for removing toxins by NASA, this plant is both easy to care for and grow in an indoor setting. What’s not to love about it?

To find out more about air-purifying plants and their benefits, head on over to our website here. Want to read more? Check out this post on the importance of air-purifying houseplants!

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