Air pollution. Yuck. It is a growing concern nowadays. The good news is that air pollution from vehicles, engines, and fuels has dramatically reduced over the years. For our part, we deliver more and more plants to many homes in the hopes that we help lessen the amount of air pollution - even just a smidge.
As much as we love the great outdoors, we can’t help but admit that we spend the greater part of our day indoors, much like everyone else. That being said, it is important to improve our living spaces with the right plants. Sure, indoor plants are aesthetically pleasing, but they should also offer a range of health benefits if possible.
And yes, we mean more than just converting carbon dioxide to oxygen. Pfft… As if that’s even important (that was sarcasm).
Air Purifying Plants: What Are They?
It’s already in the name! These are plants that help improve the air quality around you. If you want to get all science-y about it, these are plants that absorb pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon dioxide (CO2), Particulate Matter (PM), mold, and mildew.
If those terms are tripping you up, don’t worry. As we explain how air-purifying plants work, you’ll get a better idea on what these are.
How Do Air-Purifying Plants Work?
Indoor plants act as natural air purifiers. Through a process called photosynthesis, plants absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) and convert it into oxygen (O2). As we all know, humans and animals rely on oxygen to breathe. But the benefits of plants don’t stop there - they do much more to improve air quality.
1. Removing Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Volatile organic compounds are harmful chemicals commonly found in household products. VOCs like formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene are some of the ones you can find in paints and cleaning products. Even furniture itself can emit formaldehyde! That’s because of the adhesives and resins that were used in their manufacturing. While necessarily toxic and life-threatening as they are, too much exposure can lead to all kinds of irritation as well as headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.
NASA’s famous Clean Air Study (yes, that NASA) says that plants like English Ivy, Spider Plants, Peace Lilies, and Areca Palms have been found to absorb VOCs through their leaves and roots.
2. Absorbing Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and Releasing Oxygen (O2)
It should be noted that carbon dioxide itself is natural and essential for plant growth. However, too much can cause headaches, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. That’s why a proper cycle or balance is needed. Hence, the need for indoor plants.
Poorly ventilated rooms need indoor plants - and make sure they’re the right kind, too. The more plants you have, the more CO2 they can absorb, ultimately creating a more oxygen-rich environment. We have to think of the plants that can thrive in these conditions. Chances are that these kinds of rooms don’t have decent light, and you need the right kind of plant for this.
3. Trapping Particulate Matter (PM)
Particulate matter refers to tiny particles that can be inhaled into the lungs, causing respiratory problems and other health issues. Think dust, pet dander, pollen, smoke, and other sources. And the way this works is not the usual absorbing and converting process as mentioned before. This is actually pretty cool!
The leaves of indoor plants act like natural filters by trapping (yes, trapping) dust and particulate matter on their surfaces. Plants with broad, waxy leaves, such as the Rubber Plant and Ficus, are particularly effective at capturing these particles and keeping the air cleaner. That’s why you need to wipe down the leaves of your plants when needed. Think of it as cleaning out your air filters.
Popular Indoor Plants for Improving Air Quality
NASA studied a whopping 50 common houseplants! As a TL/DR, we’ll give you a quick list of plants they found to have removed traces of benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. This isn’t the full list, but the plants we think are easier to find and isn’t that what we’re here for?
- English Ivy
- Peace Lily
- Bamboo palm
- Parlour Palm
- Variegated snake plant
- Lady Palm
- Red-edged dracaena
Or you can check out our Air Purifying Plants page to easily sift through what’s available!
Check Out - 10 Best Indoor Plants That Release Oxygen
Breathe In. Breathe Out.
Indoor plants do more than just brighten up a space — they can significantly improve the quality of the air you breathe. Incorporating a few plants into your home or office not only adds beauty and calm but also offers tangible health benefits. Get yours at Bloombox Club! Your body and your lungs will thank you
