How House Plants Can Improve Your Indoor Living Environment

By: Eleanor Horvitz, Senior Accountant, NHS of Baltimore

Our homes are constantly being polluted by various chemicals that are emitted into the air from furnishings, carpet and construction materials. These emissions are called off-gases. Benzene, trichloroethylene, formaldehyde, and carbon monoxide are the most common toxins found in our homes and offices. All of these chemicals can cause health issues with long term exposure.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) conducted a study on off-gases to determine the effect house plants can have on decreasing their prevalence in the air. Their study showed that house plants do reduce the amount of pollutants and even provide oxygen to the air. The consensus, house plants will make your home a healthier, more livable place to be. Consider placing a few in every room you spend a lot of time in.

Here is a list of some of the plants that help clean the air:
Aloe Vera or Aloe Barbadensis (this is also called the medicine plant because the sap can help heal burns)
Spider plant
Golden Pothos
Peace Lily
Bamboo palm
Philodendrons
Snake Plants
Gerbera Daisy

This is just a small portion of the plants that can help clean your living environment and air quality. Be careful about selecting plants as some could be harmful to your pets. For more information visit your local garden center or contact the University of Maryland Cooperative extension agent for your county. To contact the Baltimore City branch, click here, or call 410-856-1850.