Household plants serve more benefits than just decoration. A wide variety can purify the air of harmful chemicals, prevent acne, reduce stress or even release water into the air to prevent sore throats and dry skin. The best part is that they are often cheap— if you need to take a look at them before you buy, check out a local grocery store or plan a visit to the Botanical Garden.
1. Succulents
Succulents are easy, low maintenance plants that look great while also purifying your air. They take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen, leaving you with clean air and a unique room decoration.
2. Aloe Vera
Aloe has a wide variety of health benefits including soothing burns, preventing acne and healing acne scars, softening both skin and hair and purifying your air all the while. Aloe are easy to care for and thrive in the sun!
3. Snake Plant (aka Mother-In-Law’s Tongue)
Snake Plant is especially good at filtering the air of formaldehyde which is commonly found in cleaning supplies and personal care products. This plant thrives in low light so it is perfect to keep in your bathroom for cleaner air.
4. Bamboo Palm
Bamboo Palm is particularly effective at purifying the air of dangerous carcinogens such as benzene and trichloroethylene from the air. These do best with lots of water and indirect sun or shade, perfect for a room indoors.
5. Boston Fern
These beautiful ferns act as humidifiers by releasing water vapor in exchange for pollutants in the air. This can help prevent dry skin, sore throats, colds and dry coughs. Smaller quarters like bedrooms or dorms would benefit most from one of these growing companions.
6. Peace Lily
Peace Lilies are common household plants due to how easy they are to grow. They also serve an important purpose of cleaning the air specifically of mold. Keep one of these in your bathroom or damp rooms to prevent mold and reduce mold spores in the air.
7. Lavender
Lavender plants can be used in both food and in everyday health. Lavender is one of the most effective plants in reducing stress and anxiety. Additionally, the lavender oil can help with healing burns, alleviating headaches and improving sleep.
8. Orchids
Orchids are both exotic and serve as a plant with many health benefits. Orchids can help improve sleep and promote relaxation. Dried orchids are used to help boost the immune system, fight off infection, boost libido and fight fatigue. Dried orchids can also be crushed up and made into an immune-boosting tea.
9. Pothos
Pothos plants are arguably one of the easiest plants to grow and actually thrive on low light and neglect. These plants serve to purify the air of formaldehyde, benzene and carbon monoxide while also helping eliminate odors. Pothos can also help alleviate eye irritation after long days of staring at screens.
10. Jasmine
Jasmine can be used both fresh and dry for numerous health benefits. Fresh Jasmine plants help stimulate the mind and body. The plant oil can also be used to help with acne, as a natural antidepressant and to help aid in sleep. Dried Jasmine leaves can be made into a tea which helps alleviate headaches too.
11. Rosemary
Rosemary can be used in cooking for flavor while also helping purify the air. This plant has antimicrobial properties which make it a great air purifier.
