Do you experience suffocation accompanied by allergies, dizziness or headache frequently within the premises of your house? If the answer is in the affirmative, you might be suffering from the ‘sick building syndrome’ which in worst cases can also cause cancer. The reason is harmful toxic chemicals that
are released in our homes by the objects of common use. For instance, the carpets and particle boards emit Formaldehyde while paints, perfumes, hairsprays, air fresheners and polish emit harmful solvents and chemicals. Fungi and dust also comprise biological pollutants. Carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide are equally harmful. You cannot avoid all these in your daily life totally so the best you can do is to minimize the effects.
There are some plants which can be grown easily within the house that act as air purifiers and absorb these harmful toxins. Here is a list which will be helpful:
1. Aloe Vera – Biologically called Aloe barbadensis, this plant has the potential to filter benzene and formalydehyde in addition to its ability to heal cuts and burns. There is a host of varieties which are easily available locally as well as in the nursery. This plant grows easily and does not require a lot of care, just a good quantity of sunlight.
2. Rubber Tree – Biologically named Hevea brasiliensis, the rubber tree absorbs carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide to clean up the air within your home. It also attracts the dust particles which help reducing the dust around which can trigger an asthma attack.
3. Cactus – Scientifically name Cactaceae, the thorny plant reduces radiations by absorbing them. Not just this, it releases the carbon dioxide that is emitted at night thus providing fresh oxygen and inducing a good sleep.
4. Asparagus – Biologically named Asparagus officinalis, the fragrance of this plant helps to kill the bacteria and viruses in the air thus purifying it and making the air conducive for healthy breathing.
5. Spider plant – Also known as the Chlorophytum, it acts as a great air filter absorbing formaldehyde, carbon monoxide and styrene. It also breaks down the toxic benzene as well as nicotine which are prevalent in tobacco. Even in low sunlight, the spider plant can photosynthesize and produce fresh oxygen.
6. Peace Lily – The Peace Lily or Spathiphyllum can do wonders for the air quality of your home, reducing emissions and toxins up to two third times. It absorbs moisture and spores via the leaves which is broken down by the roots and used as food. If kept in the washroom, it helps to absorb mildew keeping the curtains and tiles free from them. In the room, it can also take in the harmful vapors emitted by alcohol and acetone.
7. Snake plant – Also called the Sansevieria trifasciata biologically, the effect of having this plant indoors is totally contrary to its name. In fact, it helps to remove nitrogen dioxide and carbon dioxide from our immediate surroundings releasing oxygen at night. Its requirement does not extend beyond a little bit of sunlight and water.
8. Bamboo Palm – Scientifically known as Chamaedorea Sefritzii, this plant helps to provide some humidity to dry rooms. In addition, it is an absorbent for formaldehyde, benzene, xylene and carbon monoxide. It prefers a shady place indoor.
9. Gerber daisies – The Gerbera jamesonii is an effective absorber of carbon monoxide and benzene and emitter of oxygen at night thus ideal for bedrooms. The flowers also add to the beauty of the room.
10. Warneck dracaena – The Dracaena deremensis, is a great houseplant which eliminates harmful emissions such as formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, solvents and benzene at room temperature. The plant does not require a lot of light.
