Dear plant lover,
As I already mentioned in my blogpost number #9 and #10, indoor plants make us feel good. Several studies have shown that indoor plants boost our mood, concentration, creativity, and productivity. They clean indoor air by absorbing toxins while they producing oxygen and increasing the humidity (which is especially good for keeping one’s airways smooth). Plants reduce stress, colds and fatigue and they are therapeutic and, of course, cheaper than a therapist.
Plants Against Air Pollution
The term Sick Building Syndrome describes symptoms experienced by actually healthy people working in a large commercial building. They suffer from allergies; irritation of the nose, eyes, throat; dizziness, fatigue, and headache; nervous system disorders; and respiratory and sinus congestion. It also decreases the productivity of the workers.
What is the cause? Indoor air pollution. This is generally a consequence of toxic emissions from synthetic building materials, viruses, airborne mold, and pollutants, along with energy-efficient construction (like making workspaces as airtight as possible) which leads to less air circulation. This releases toxin emissions such as formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene. This is gross, right?!
These compounds can be found in almost every home. Most wall paints, laminates, computer parts, and plastics break down over time and release toxic compounds into our air. However, here is some good news! We can improve our indoor air quality with plants. They absorb harmful toxins, breaking them down into little gentle byproducts, and storing them inside their soil to use them later for food. I cannot describe how fascinating and great this process is!
Here are some of my favorite air-purifying plants:
ZZ Plant
The ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is the perfect choice for everyone with low light conditions and bad watering behavior. They are extraordinarily dry-tolerant and low maintenance. The ZZ Plant have been shown to filter benzene, xylene, and toluene from the air.
Snake Plant
This plant has thin, upright leaves with a pattern like the skin of a reptile. They can deal with almost every condition and are very modest. Snake Plants have been shown to filter formaldehyde, xylene, toluene, and benzene out of the air we breathe.
Rubber Plant
This variety of ficus has thick upright stems with oversized, glossy leaves. Rubber Plants have been shown to filter formaldehyde.
Bird’s Nest Fern
The Bird’s Nest Fern is characterized by ripple-edged fonds that grow out of the top like a crown. It is a lovely hanging plant. Ferns have been shown to filter xylene, toluene, and formaldehyde.
To reap the benefits of air-purifying plants, have at least two plants per 100 square feet. Keep also in mind that plants with larger leaves purify the air quicker. As you can see: the more plants, the better. Now go out and green up your living space, lovely plant lover!
Lovely greetings,
Pauline
Planthoarding 