NASA began studying the amazing effects of houseplants for purifying the air in their space stations back in the 80's and in doing so, they discovered something which we can all receive incredible benefits from.
Especially since indoor plants have made a huge comeback recently, meaning that there is now a wealth of beautiful plants available along with stunning pots to house them in which in turn creates a hygenic and stylish environment in our homes! A double win!
By filtering potentially harmful compounds in the air around our home, it becomes cleaner and fresher and simply better for ourselves and our family.
I have recently become a convert to indoor plants, and I have many more in mind to top up my collection in the other rooms of the house. Different plants work well for different rooms, depending on what they are best at filtering, so here is my list of the most effective and stylish indoor plants around.
English Ivy
Ideal for the bathroom as it reduces airborne faecal particles as well as combats mould which can spring up from the damp environment after a bath or shower. It will need around 4 hours of light a day at least and daily watering.
CHRYSANTHEMUM
Usually found in cut flower form, these are beautiful when growing from a pot and will last so much longer too giving you their incredible benefits for far longer. They filters toxins found in the air derived from plastics, cleaning products such as detergent, and glue. They love to be in the sun so pop them on a window sill and enjoy their benfits and beauty all day long.
ALOE VERA
Not only do they look fabulous (and a softer version of a cactus for anyone with little children who like to prod and poke at everything) they are also highly purifying, helping to rid the environment of benzene and formaldehyde which can be found in varnish and detergents. It also contains a very, naturally occuring healing gel, ideal for minor cuts and burns. Aloe vera plants require a lovely sunny spot!
Peace Lilly
The peace lilly has been shown to improve the quality of the air in your home by up to 60% by lowering the levels of mould spores. They are so powerful that if kept in the bathroom they can stop the development of mildew on tiles. When kept in the kitchen they absorb vapours from alcohol and acetone found in cleaning products.
Eucalyptus
Containing tannins, the leaves of a eucalyptus plant have been shown to help ease congestion issues and even ward of colds. For a more intense hit you can also place fresh leaves in a bowl of boiling water (carefully!) and use it as a steam bath. It can also be used as an oil in an oil burner to help further purify the air, killing germs and lowering airborne bacteria.
These are my top 5 but pop into your local garden centre or take a look at some of my favourites here on Amazon, and take a peek at the incredible plants available online which are just ready to help clear and detoxify you and your family's environment!
Tag me in your indoor plant shots @the_calm_mummy_method - I'd love to see how you style them!
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