Houseplants that Absorb Harmful Chemicals

We are constantly bombarded by a barrage of potent chemicals in our homes. However, a study by chemistry professor Vadoud Niri and his team at State University of New York, Oswego, found that houseplants are able to absorb some of those chemical compounds.

The compounds, found around the house in paint, furniture, printers, cleaning supplies and even dry-cleaned clothes, can and do have effects on our health. In fact, some plants are better at it than others! Crassula argentea (jade plant), for instance, is good at absorbing toluene (a toxic chemical emitted by cars and found in gasoline, kerosene, heating oil, paint, and lacquer).

Here are 12 plants that you can bring home today, to help clean up the airways:

English ivy helps cigarette smokers or those who are sensitive to smoke. It’s also helpful for those who have asthma. If you find that your house has an odor you aren’t fond of, buy a ficus elastica; the plant is able to absorb odors, reduce microorganisms, and toxic substances.

Snake plants remove benzene and formaldehyde in the air and produce the greatest amount of oxygen at night. That makes for some sweet sleep. 

 Philodendron scandens effectively removes formaldehyde, which is commonly found in cleaning products and gas stoves.

 A palm tree will help your home regulate humidity levels.(And bring back memories of the beach!)

Chlorophytum comosum, a type of spider plant, will absorb more than 90% of o-Xylene, found in fuels, and p-Xylene (found in plastic and rubber products). And, smokers benefit from having it around too since over just a couple of days it can absorb 90% of formaldehyde and carbon monoxide, ingredients found in cigarette smoke.

Bromeliads will make your home look bright and cheery thanks to their red hue AND they purify the air of benzene, absorbing more than 90% of the chemical (commonly found in glue, paint, furniture wax and detergent). 

According to CNN, “the Caribbean tree cactus can absorb 80% of ethylbenzene in the air. The toxic chemical can be found in items such as construction materials, electronic products, food packaging, furniture, garden care products and even toys.”

Dracaena plants can absorb more than 90% of acetone (found in nail polish remover or household cleaners). For people who live near a busy road or a manufacturer of paint, plastics, chemicals, artificial fibers and shoes, the chances of breathing in toxic gas are higher. Dracaena can help clean the air of those chemicals. 

Ferns are good for dry homes because they increase the humidity in the air. 

Peace lily’s keep those who work on computers or near printers healthy by absorbing the electromagnetic radiation that’s emitted. They also keep air moisturized.

Source: CNN