Outdoor air pollution has become a growing public health concern, with many experts urging people to wear masks and stay indoors. But several studies suggest that indoor air is also hazardous for our health. In fact, a 2014 study published in the Indian Journal of Community Medicine found that indoor air pollution can be up to ten times worse than outdoor air pollution.
In today's time, a lot of people have invested in expensive air purifiers. On the other hand, many have taken the cheaper and more aesthetic route of buying house plants. In a conversation with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Vipul Gupta, Chief-Neurointerventional Surgery and Co-Chief Stroke Unit, Artemis Hospitals, Gurugram, shares the common sources of indoor air pollution and explains whether plants help improve air quality indoors.
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Common Causes Of Indoor Plants
When dangerous contaminants are present in the air inside structures or enclosed areas, it can have a negative impact on occupants' health and well-being, said Dr Gupta. Some of the common contributors include:
- Burnt fossil fuels
- Appliances like gas stoves, heaters, fireplaces, and furnaces, which can emit particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2)
- Household cleaning products
- Construction materials
- Carpets and furniture, which can release formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, and other chemicals into the air
- Inadequate ventilation
Common pollutants include particulate matter, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and mould.
Poor indoor air quality can negatively impact health, leading to respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues. Regular ventilation and using air purifiers can help mitigate indoor air pollution.
Can Plants Help Purify Air?
In response to the "sick building syndrome," a team of researchers from NASA conducted a Clean Air Study in 1989, which investigated using plants as natural air filters.
Over the course of two years, researchers tested numerous plants' ability to remove organic pollutants like benzene and formaldehyde. The study concluded that introducing plants could significantly reduce indoor air pollution, along with using safer building materials and minimising mechanical ventilation.
Dr Gupta says, “Plants can help purify indoor air by removing certain pollutants and improving air quality. They may effectively filter pollutants and toxins from the air by absorbing them through their roots and leaves, a process known as phytoremediation. Although they might not be able to completely remove indoor air pollution on their own, plants can enhance other air filtration techniques and help create a healthier interior atmosphere.”
Also Read: We Asked Doctors Whether Air Purifiers Really Work Against Pollution: Here’s What They Answered
Types Of Plants That May Help
According to a number of studies, some plant species are very good at eliminating common indoor air pollutants. These include:
Spider plant: Effective at removing formaldehyde and toluene from indoor air.
Peace lily: Helps remove common indoor air pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene.
Aloe vera: Known for its air-purifying properties, particularly in removing formaldehyde.
Rubber plant: Effective at filtering out formaldehyde.
Other Effective Measures To Improve Indoor Air
Here are some other effective tips to improve indoor air quality:
- Ensure adequate ventilation; open your windows and doors to let fresh air in and indoor pollutants out.
- Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to get rid of moisture and smells.
- Minimise the use of products that emit harmful pollutants, such as aerosol sprays, air fresheners, and harsh cleaning chemicals.
- Keep the relative humidity in your home between 30% and 50% to stop the growth of mould and mildew.
- Utilise dehumidifiers in moist spaces like bathrooms and basements.
- To get rid of dust mites, pet dander, and allergens, vacuum and dust your house frequently.
Conclusion
Indoor air quality can be influenced by various pollutants originating from household sources. While plants have been shown to contribute to indoor air purification by absorbing certain pollutants, they should be considered as part of a holistic approach to improving air quality. Adequate ventilation, regular cleaning, and minimising the use of pollutants are equally important measures.