Not only do plants bring beauty to our homes and offices they are also useful in cleaning the air we breathe of pollutants.A joint NASA and ALCA (Associated Landscape Contractors of America) study proved that plants can actually remove harmful gases and pollutants from the air in buildings, including carbon monoxide. As part of the study, different plants were sealed in Plexiglas chambers with various chemicals.
Philodendron, spider plant and the golden pothos were labeled the most effective in removing formaldehyde molecules. Flowering plants such as gerbera daisy and chrysanthemums were rated superior in removing benzene from the chamber atmosphere. Other good performers are Dracaena Massangeana, Spathiphyllum, and Golden Pothos. “Plants take substances out of the air through the tiny openings in their leaves,” Wolverton said. “But research in our laboratories has determined that plant leaves, roots and soil bacteria are all important in removing trace levels of toxic vapors”.
THE BEST POLLUTANT-REMOVING PLANTS ARE:
Bamboo Palm- absorbs the formaldehyde that furniture emits.
Chrysanthemum- can absorb the trichloroethylene from inks and benzene from any plastic product.
Corn Plant- is good at absorbing the formaldehyde from paper goods.
Gerbera Daisy- also absorbs benzene from ink
Philodendron- can also absorb formaldehyde from wood (particleboard).
Other useful plants include the Peace Lilly, English Ivy, Spider Plants, Chinese Evergreen, and Dracaena.
Any of these plants, or a combination of several or all, should do the trick.
Add some green to your environment and clean up your air at the same time. Your lungs will thank you.
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