The cities that we’re dwelling in are constantly becoming
toxic cocktails, leaving us the air too bad to breathe in. But ever wondered
that the air that you’re breathing inside the comfort of your homes could be
equally or even more polluted.
Indoor air pollution is caused due to paints and varnishes on
walls and furniture, dust, indoor smoking et al. Bad indoor air quality is
leading to some serious illnesses that include respiratory disorders and lung
impairment along with eye irritation and headache. A startling revelation made
by a World Health Organisation (WHO) report states that 1.3 million people die
in India due to indoor air pollution. But the nature is abundant and has given
us enough reasons not to worry as there are certain plants that help clean up
the indoor air.
Plants
that produce fresh air
Studies from National Aeronautics and Space Administration
(NASA) and other research organisations reveal that there are three common, easily-available
plants that are known to remove toxins from indoor air, enriching it with
oxygen. These are the Areca Palm (living room plant), Mother-in-law’s Tongue
(bedroom plant) and Money Plant (specialist plant).
Above (L-R): Areca Palm, Mother-in-law's Tongue
Below (L-R): Money Plant, Aloe Vera
Areca Palm helps remove carbon dioxide and converts it into
oxygen. It is mandatory to take these plants outdoors every 3-4 months.
Mother-in-law’s Tongue is rightly called the bedroom plant because
of its ability to remove carbon dioxide, thereby converting it into oxygen
during night time.
Money Plant is called a specialist plant for a special reason
that it removes formaldehydes and other volatile chemicals, and when it comes
to cleaning indoor air, it’s the best option you have.
Aloe Vera is also a very great option as it helps clear out
formaldehyde and benzene that can arise from paints and chemical-based
cleaners. An added bonus is that you have a home remedy for your cuts and
burns. Aloe Vera works wonders for skin and hair too. An important point to note
here is that Aloe Vera is a sun-loving plant and prefers dry soil so it is
advisable not to water them frequently.
All these plants are low maintenance, but it is necessary to
wipe the leaves quite often or else it will not serve its purpose. The pores on
the leaves get clogged due to dust and other particles making them
non-functional.
Adorn
your home with a green wall
Green wall made with plastic bottles
Wondering what to do with those plastic bottles and containers
that are of no use. Why not contribute to the environment by putting them to
the best use! If these plastic bottles end up in landfill and ultimately burnt,
they will lead to the worst kind of air pollution. But to your surprise, using
them in a way can help you clean indoor air. You just need to cut them open,
put in some soil and manure and plant a Money Plant. You can use as many
containers as you can, and then tie them up with sutli or any rope that’s
easily available to you, and you’ve your own green wall inside your home – the
most economical way.
Head to your nearest vendor today and get hold of these plants
to make yourself and your home healthy and green.
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