Delhi’s air quality index crossed the 400-mark earlier today as the national capital region was shrouded in a thick blanket of smog. On the face of it, it may feel like the official start of winter, with early morning and late night temperatures leaving you feeling cold at times. But Delhi-NCR veterans know the difference between fog and smog very well. There is no doubt about the situation we are in the middle of right now. Although you may be one of the lucky ones who has an air purifier to ensure that at least the environment in your home doesn’t make you silently sick, investing in the appliance is no mean feat. Thus we bring to you a greener, cleaner and possibly quite a cheaper alternative – multifunctional houseplants, which also act as authentic air purifiers with constant tender care and love.
aloe vera
If you love greenery indoors, chances are you probably have an aloe vera plant. Apart from its extensive beauty purposes, did you know that aloe vera plants also absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen during the night? Additionally, it also filters out benzene and formaldehyde found in items like paint, glue, and detergent.
spider plant
Do you know that Spider Plant is included in NASA’s list of top 3 houseplants capable of removing formaldehyde from the air? Apart from this, spider plants also help in controlling the levels of carbon monoxide, benzene, xylene and nitrogen dioxide in the air. Additionally, the absorbed pollutants are then transferred to its roots where microbes detoxify them.
bamboo palm
Another NASA-certified air pollution warrior, bamboo palm, like aloe vera, is known to release oxygen at night, while also adding moisture to the air. Not only this, the decorated vessel is also known to filter toxins like benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, xylene and chloroform and can grow up to 12 feet tall – always a visual treat.
Special Mention: Chinese Evergreen and Peace Lily
If your aesthetic sensibilities go beyond nature’s green shade card, you can always opt for Chinese evergreen. The broad leaves, with heavy splashes of red and pink, are particularly low-maintenance and also suitable for low-circulation corners of the home.
Additionally, if you absolutely need some flora, the elegant Peace Lily is indeed a sought-after choice. In addition to filtering formaldehyde, benzene and carbon monoxide from the air, it can also absorb cigarette smoke, paint and furniture fumes, and mold spores. Peace Lily is also approved by NASA.
English ivy is great…but
If you are a pet parent or have a pet that occasionally hangs around the house, this is a definite no-no, as it is necessarily poisonous to animals. Conversely, if it is a no-no for you to have pets, beautiful English ivy can filter benzene, xylene, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, toluene and trichloroethylene from the air, as well as control moisture and especially mold. Helps in keeping. Bathroom, checking.
If not already, are you considering becoming a plant parent before the year ends?
