No doubt about it, spending time in nature reduces stress levels and relieves tension. But we spend almost 90 per cent of our time indoors breathing in air that is two to five times more polluted than outdoor air, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Bringing potted plants into a living space to liven it up is a trick that's been used by interior designers for years. In addition to their function in decorating, bringing thriving greenery indoors can brighten up a space, purify the air and create a more relaxing, restful ambiance. So if you or anyone in your family has allergies, smokes or just wants to breathe fresher, cleaner air at home, bring one or more of these air-purifying plants to live with you. Ferns: These are known as the most efficient filtering plants for their time-tested ability to expel toxins from indoor air. They also act as natural humidifiers. Gerbera daisies: Apart from removing benzene from the air, these amazing flowers are known to improve sleep by absorbing carbon dioxide and giving off oxygen overnight. Snake plant: This purifies the air by absorbing nitrogen oxide and formaldehyde. A snake plant can grow up to four feet in height. Water it only about once a month as overwatering can make the plant develop root rot. Anthuriums: These are natural air-purifiers and have been scientifically proven to suck up ammonia, formaldehyde, toluene and xylene. As a result, they are great for the workplace, especially around copiers, printers and adhesives. Schefflera: These are known to soak up nasty toxins like benzene, formaldehyde and toluene, so they're good for households where there's a smoker. They're long lasting too, as long as you keep the leaves dust-free and wipe them down once in a while.
Pothos plants: These are characterised by their golden, heart-shaped leaves that can survive in lower light and colder temperatures. They are great for offices and homes since they rid the air of carbon monoxide and formaldehyde. Massangeana cane: This is ideal for decorating your home, and it also removes toxins from the air. Dendrobium and phalaenopsis orchids: Aside from being easy to take care of, orchids rid the air of xylene, a pollutant found in many glues and paints. Unlike some other plants, orchids also respire and give off oxygen at night, so they're great for the bedroom. Aloe vera: This is one of the most useful indoor plants, and it helps clear formaldehyde and benzene, which are byproducts of chemical-based cleaners and paints. Beyond its air-cleaning abilities, the gel inside an aloe plant can help heal cuts and burns.
