In the late 1980s, NASA conducted a study with the goal of finding the most effective plants for removing toxic agents and converting carbon dioxide into oxygen on space stations. This study was born from the need to detoxify the air in these closed environments, where astronauts spent extended periods. In 1989, the results of the study were published in a report titled “Clean Air Study,” which listed the plants that were most effective at cleaning indoor air.
According to the report, some of the best plants for filtering the air in your home or office include dwarf date palm, Boston fern, Kimberly Queen fern, spider plant, Chinese evergreen, bamboo palm, weeping fig, ivy devil, flamingo lily, lilyturf. , Broadleaf Palm, Barberton Daisy, Corn Dracaena, English Ivy, Variegated Snake Plant, Red-tip Dracaena, Peace Lily and Florist’s Chrysanthemum.
The study recommends having at least one plant for every hundred square feet of space in your home or office. These plants can help remove toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene and trichlorethylene, which are commonly found in indoor environments.
In addition to filtering the air, these plants can also improve indoor humidity levels, reduce noise levels, and even improve our mood and productivity. Whether you’re looking to improve the air quality in your home or office or simply want to add some greenery to your space, incorporating these plants into your decor can be a great way to achieve both goals.
Common indoor air pollutants and their associated short-term symptoms
- Trichloroethylene it is found in printing inks, paints, lacquers, varnishes, adhesives and paint removers. Short-term exposure can cause symptoms such as excitement, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness and coma.
- Formaldehyde found in paper bags, waxed papers, facial tissues, paper towels, plywood panels and synthetic fabrics. Short-term exposure can cause irritation to the nose, mouth and throat, and in severe cases, swelling of the larynx and lungs.
- Benzene it is used to make plastics, resins, lubricants, detergents and drugs. It is also found in tobacco smoke, glue and furniture wax. Short-term exposure can cause symptoms such as eye irritation, drowsiness, dizziness, headache, increased heart rate, confusion and, in some cases, unconsciousness.
- Chilean it is found in rubber, leather, tobacco smoke and vehicle exhaust. Short-term exposure can cause symptoms such as mouth and throat irritation, dizziness, headache, confusion, heart problems, liver and kidney damage, and coma.
- Ammonia found in window cleaners, floor waxes, smelling salts and fertilizers. Short-term exposure can cause symptoms such as eye irritation, coughing and sore throat.
Disclaimer: It’s worth noting that some of the plants recommended by NASA for air purification may be toxic to pets. So if you have furry friends at home, it’s important to do your research and make sure the plants you choose are safe for them. Also, it may be a good idea to see a doctor if you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above.
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