Using Air-Purifying Plants For Indoor Health
House plants that include common ivy, spider plants and peace lilies can help reduce stress and improve air quality. Use caution near pets and children.
NEW YORK – House plants offer an ideal means to infuse a touch of nature into your snug confines throughout the year. They enhance the aesthetic appeal of your living space, and certain ones also possess several health benefits.
Some plants can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep, and offer respiratory benefits. These domestic greens act as natural air purifiers, cleansing your home from pollutants such as carbon dioxide that accumulate to detrimental concentrations over time.
Getting rid of particles like dust and pet dander aids in maintaining unobstructed nasal passages, potentially diminishing the frequency of sleep apnea occurrences. Inhaling purified air contributes to steadier breathing patterns during sleep, ensuring deeper and more rejuvenating cycles.
As per Sleep Foundation: "Research suggests that indoor air quality may play a significant role in the quality of a person's sleep. Pollutants and airborne particles in the bedroom can contribute to allergies and other problems that interfere with a good night's rest."
In the following segment, gardening specialist Calum Maddock from HomeHow.co.uk shares insights on the best plants for air purification and enhanced health. With over fifteen years of experience, Calum Maddock is a UK-based landscaping professional, reports the Mirror.
Rubber plant
Ficus elastica, better known as the rubber plant, is native to the eastern regions of South and Southeast Asia. This robust flowering species thrives in subdued lighting and cooler climes, making it a perfect addition to indoor spaces.
Calum remarks: "In addition to serving as a beautiful accent piece within a room, rubber plants can remove airborne toxins and fight tropical diseases and parasites. They are particularly effective at removing formaldehyde from the air, which is found in cleaning supplies and furniture."
English ivy
Commonly known as English ivy or common ivy, this flowering plant originates from much of Europe and some areas of Western Asia. Its adaptability makes it a favored houseplant, capable of flourishing under various conditions and thus a top pick for home decoration.
Calum notes: "This easy-to-care-for vine can help reduce mold in the home and offer stunning visual appeal. It is worth noting, however, that ivy can be toxic for cats and dogs, so it may be best suited to a pet-free environment."
Peace lily
Native to the tropical zones of the Americas and Southeast Asia, peace lilies are evergreen perennials that provide an attractive ornamental touch to any interior setting, suitable for both novice and seasoned plant enthusiasts.
Calum explains: "Not only are they a stunning accent feature for any home, but studies show that they can filter formaldehyde, ammonia, and other harmful toxins that can cause headaches and respiratory problems from indoor air. They can also remove airborne mold that aggravates allergies and asthma symptoms."
Spider plant
The spider plant, scientifically known as Chloropythum comosum, gets its common name from its resemblance to a spider. This evergreen perennial is native to tropical and Southern Africa but has adapted to various regions worldwide, including Western Australia and Bangladesh.
Calum advises: "This is one of the easiest houseplants to grow and is natural at absorbing carbon monoxide and formaldehyde while decomposing benzene and nicotine. Just one plant in an average-sized living room is enough to be an effective air filter."
Snake plant
Native to tropical West Africa, the snake plant is a species of flowering plant often kept indoors due to its low-maintenance nature. It requires minimal water and sunlight to thrive. Its leaves can be boiled to create a holistic remedy for skin pain and irritation.
Calum shares: "Snake plants can remove a wide range of pollutants from the air within a home, including benzene, formaldehyde, and xylene. Therefore, as well as making a delightful statement floor piece, they are useful in reducing the effects of allergies and respiratory conditions."
Pothos
The Pothos genus comprises flowering plants native to various regions, including China, the Indian Subcontinent and Australia. Renowned for being the most low-maintenance houseplant, its numerous varieties and attractive heart-shaped leaves have contributed to its widespread popularity.
Calum notes: "These plants are one of the best for removing all types of indoor toxins, so they provide a range of health benefits as well as aesthetic and practical ones. They tolerate lower light, humidity, and temperature, so they can be incorporated into almost any home environment."
Final thoughts
In conclusion, Calum remarks: "When trying to improve our physical and mental health, we often consider many options, such as exercise, diet and meditation. The common houseplant is often neglected in our thought process aside from in terms of visual appeal, but it can purify the air in your home, leading to a healthier and happier you."
For households with pets or young children, verifying that any plants introduced are non-toxic and safe in case of accidental ingestion is essential.
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