Plants Remove Toxins and Purify the Air

Not long ago, Jocie wrote about a the Filtrete Air Purifier we’ve been using. I was a bit skeptical at first but will concede that it works great. I’ve been checking the filter periodically and it’s definitely accumulating dust, bugs and who knows what else.

But there are other ways to improve the quality of the air around you. Good ‘ol nature provides some great ways to remove various toxins with plants.

Toxins in the Air

Toxins found in the air originate from many sources.

• Formaldehyde can irritate your eyes, nose, throat and cause headaches. It’s found in many household materials like plywood and particle Board, which are often used to manufacture furniture and kitchen cabinets. Products treated with Urea-Formaldehyde (UF) resin include waxed paper, paper towel and paper grocery bags. It’s also created by cooking fuels like natural gas and kerosene.

• Benzene can cause eye and skin irritation to say the least. Other symptoms range from headache and drowsiness to chromosomal aberrations and leukemia. It can be found in solvents, detergents, gasoline, ink, plastics and paints.

• Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a carcinogen (cause of cancer). Specifically, National Cancer Institute believes TCE causes Liver cancer. TCE can be found in dry-cleaning fluid, paints, varnishes and printing ink.

Cleaner Air Using Plants

There are several different plants that can purify the air by breaking down these harmful toxins. Here are some of the top performers.

• The Peace Lily is characterized by long green leaves with bright white blooms (see picture). Peace Lily’s are low maintenance. They thrive in low light but need regular watering. They grow to about 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide. And the Peace Lily is an excellent way to breakdown Benzene(80%) and TCE(23%).

• Aloe is a genus of about 400 plants. Most Aloe plants have thick pointy leaves and tubular flowers. The gel found within the leaves can be used on the skin for burn, wounds and even eczema. Meanwhile, its a great way to remove Formaldehyde(90%) from the air.

• Golden Pothos, also called Devils Ivy, is a low growing vine. It does not flower and enjoys typical indoor temperatures. Devils Ivy is very easy to maintain and will grow in almost any location. Just be sure to trim on occasion as the vines can reach 10 feet long.  Devils Ivy is an effective way to remove Benzene(73%) and Formaldehyde(67%) from the air.

Number of Plants

Setup one or two good sized, leafy plants per 100 square feet (10′ x 10′ room). Add more for higher levels of impurities. Mix plant types because each plant will target different toxins. Don’t place plants near vents as the draft may reduce effectivness.

What do you think? Do you use plants to purify the air? Will you in the future?
Image courtesy of muan-jai