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2023 Author: Benjamin Dyson | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-21 01:37
The lack of quality in the air we breathe has been linked to several he alth problems, especially in the respiratory system of children, with an increase in the number of cases of asthma and other respiratory allergies. For this reason, several institutions, such as the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, have recommended cleaning the air in the home as a strategy to improve respiratory he alth.
For this reason, there are several appliances with special filters, known as HEPA, that help clean the air in your home and eliminate various pollutants. However, according to other studies, these devices may not be enough to remove all pollutants and may even end up contaminating the environment more if they are not properly cleaned.
Thus, several other researches have been done to find a natural and effective way to clean the air, which go through the use of plants. In fact, several plants have been studied by NASA to serve as natural filters in space travel. Some of the plants that seem to have the greatest effect on cleaning the air include:
1. Areca-bamboo
Areca-bamboo, with the scientific name Dypsis lutescens, is a type of indoor palm that, in addition to eliminating various types of pollutants from the air, such as benzene and formaldehyde, also increases the amount of humidity in the environment, being a perfect ally during winter days, when the heating is on.
To develop properly this plant needs to be in an environment with plenty of sunlight and be watered frequently.
2. Fern
The fern, also known as the Boston fern and the scientific name Chamaedorea elegans, is a very common plant in the home and that, in fact, has several benefits for the air, as it helps to maintain an adequate level moisture in the environment, as well as removing common pollutants such as formaldehyde.
Although it is an easy plant to care for, it usually needs to be kept in darker places or, at least, with indirect light.
3. English ivy
English ivy, scientific name Hedera helix, is also another very common plant at home, especially outdoors. However, this plant can have an important benefit indoors, as it seems to clean a large number of pollutants, in addition to increasing the amount of moisture, important for respiratory he alth.
Like any ivy, this plant is very easy to grow and, therefore, its size must be regulated with frequent pruning of its branches. Although it can be used indoors, special care must be taken with this plant, as it can be toxic, especially if ingested by animals or children.
4. Gerbera
Gerbera is a very colorful plant, scientifically named Gerbera jamesonii, which is often used inside homes to improve their aesthetic appearance. However, in addition to offering beauty, this flower also removes many of the pollutants present in the air.
This plant is safe for pets and should be placed in places with lots of sun, as its flowers need sunlight to develop.
5. Rubber tree
This is a very hardy plant that grows easily in places with low light. Its scientific name is Ficus elastica, and it has great effect in removing pollutants from the air, mainly formaldehyde, benzene and trichlorethylene.
Some types of this plant can be toxic if ingested, so care should be taken with the presence of domestic animals that can ingest the plant.
6. Peace Lily
Peace lily is a very beautiful plant that can be used indoors to improve the aesthetics of various places. Its scientific name is Spathiphyllum, and in addition to removing pollutants from the air, it is also resistant to various insects and provides an optimal level of humidity to the environment.
This plant does not need direct sunlight and its flowers bloom indoors as long as they are watered frequently.
How to use plants to clean the air at home
The plants indicated have good abilities to clean the air in the house, however, to achieve better results it is recommended that there are at least 3 plants per 10 square meters in each room, placed as close as possible to places where you can spend more time, such as in bed, sofa or chairs.
Since plants are living beings, it is also very important to know how to properly care for each one, so that they function at their best. For this, it is advisable to ask for tips on how to care for each plant in the store.
Other he alth benefits of plants
In addition to removing pollutants from the air and improving humidity levels, plants can also have a strong impact on the psychological he alth of many people, as they make places more comfortable and welcoming. In fact, the use of plants in offices has even been shown to improve mood and productivity.
On the other hand, some plants can even help in the control of insect and mosquito pests, and can be allies in the fight against diseases transmitted by bites, such as Dengue or Zika, for example. Discover a list of plants that help keep mosquitoes away from your home.
