We are at an increased risk of various allergies and illnesses due to air pollution in our homes.

The most common contaminants of our homes include carpets, pain, foam insulation materials, glues and adhesives, household cleaners, and pressed-wood products.

The indoor pollutants that affect health are formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, radon, Volatile Organic Compounds (benzene and trichloroethylene or TCE), airborne biological pollutants, and nitrogen oxides, pesticides and disinfectants (phenols).

They contribute to ‘sick building syndrome’, which leads to symptoms ranging from fatigue, allergies, headaches, through to nervous-system disorders, cancer, and death.

NASA scientists have identified 50 houseplants that filter these pollutants and gases, and with assistance from the Associated Landscape Contractors of America, they conducted a two-year study directed by Dr. B.C.

Wolverton, an environmental engineer from Picayune, Washington, and a research scientist for NASA for over 20 years.

His study of the interaction between plants and air showed that houseplants, when placed in sealed chambers in the presence of specific chemicals, eliminated these chemicals from the chambers, so they effectively clean pollutants in homes, offices, factories and retail outlets.

Here are the 10 most effective plants that cleanse the air from pollutants:

1. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

This decorative plant eliminates benzene, alcohols, acetone, and trichloroethylene from the air, but make sure it is out of reach of your children and pets since it is highly toxic.

2. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)

The Bamboo Palm is a great air humidifier and cleanses it from benzene and trichloroethylene.

3. Snake Plant (Sansevieria Trifasciata)

This low-maintenance plant releases oxygen while absorbing carbon dioxide, and it is an effective way to eliminate formaldehyde released by your carpets and wooden furniture.

4. English Ivy (Hedera Helix)

English Ivy is a potent air-cleanser against airborne fecal-matter particles, and also absorbs carcinogens from the smoke.

5. Dragon Tree (Dracaena Marginata)

Due to its appealing look and strong cleansing ability, this subtropical plant has strong cleansing properties, and it filters out xylene, the chemical substance released from paints, cigarettes, and car exhausts.

6. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum Comosum)

Place it near the fireplace or in the kitchen to absorb the accumulated carbon monoxide. It needs plenty of natural light and minimal watering.

7. Dracaena (Dracaena deremensis)

It eliminates trichloroethylene from solvents and varnishes. It is easy to grow and needs small amounts of sunlight and water.

8. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis Exalta Bostoniensis)

This plant is a potent air humidifier and a great way to cleanse the air from formaldehyde.

9. Golden Pothos (Epipremnum Aureum)

This is the best way to get rid of formaldehyde and carbon monoxide.

10. Lady Palm (Rhapis Excelsa)

Its thick green leaves effectively eliminate indoor contaminants. Note that it needs plenty of water during spring and summer.

Make sure you have some of these potent air purifying plants at home and enjoy the clean and pure air and positive energy!

Source: www.healthandhealthyliving.com