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Clean air plays an integral role in our overall health. The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences draws a clear link between air pollution and adverse health impacts. The good news is that implementing natural solutions, such as the strategic use of plants, can significantly improve indoor air quality.
According to a study by NASA, certain indoor plants are capable of purifying the air. This research outlined in their Clean Air Study indicates that houseplants can remove harmful toxins from the air, which are commonly released by household items like cleaning products, upholstery, and even certain types of wood.
Scientists highlight that plants improve air quality through photosynthesis. During this process, plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. This simple exchange is essential for human life, making our relationship with plants symbiotic. However, scientists have expanded our knowledge to reveal that plants do much more than release oxygen.
One of the ways indoor plants improve air quality is by increasing humidity. They release 97% of the water they take in, which can be especially beneficial in dry climates. Humid environments also effectively dilute the presence of pollutants. This is one reason why outdoor air is usually superior in quality to indoor air.
Another way plants contribute to cleaner air is by absorbing pollutants through a process called phytoremediation. They use their leaves and roots, and associated micro-organisms, to remove, stabilize, or destroy toxins in the soil and atmosphere. These toxins include formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, and more.
For instance, English Ivy (Hedera helix) is a potent air purifier, known to remove formaldehyde, xylene, toluene, and benzene. Similarly, the Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) neutralizes toxins such as formaldehyde, xylene, toluene, and nitrogen oxides. Philodendrons, Spider Plant, and Chinese Evergreen are other super-detoxifiers to consider.
However, the efficiency of plants in purifying air depends on factors such as plant size, pot size, and the specific pollutant. To increase the benefits of plants for improving indoor air quality, it is recommended to have at least one plant per 100 square feet of home or office space.
Managing Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) ranks high in importance, especially considering we usually spend 90% of our time indoors. With ‘Sick Building Syndrome’ (SBS) and ‘Building Related Illnesses’ (BRI) emerging as serious health concerns, the humble houseplant becomes a hero. It is not only a simple and affordable strategy but an environmentally friendly one that improves the aesthetic of your home or office while keeping you healthy.
Another advantage of using plants for indoor air quality is their impact on mental wellbeing. Studies have revealed that being around plants or nature reduces stress levels, improves mood, and increases overall productivity. It’s a win-win situation!
In conclusion, it is safe to say the green solution of using indoor plants brings several advantages for our health and environment. They are easy to maintain and have a dual purpose of beautifying our spaces while improving the air we breathe. Opt for green solutions and breathe easy!
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