Especially in winter months Many residents struggle with a bad indoor climate, stuffy heating air or condensation on windows. The result: tiredness, fatigue, dizziness or even respiratory problems. Do you also suffer from a bad indoor climate? Then we have the right help ready: Air purification systems. Not only do they beautify the environment, but they can also help break down pollutants. You can find out how it works and which houseplants you should use in this article.
Pollutants present in the air: formation and effects
In winter for many people the expression “heavy air” takes on a whole new meaning. This refers to a dry, oxygen-poor, pollutant-filled climate that fills many indoor spaces. One of the triggers is clearly stuffy heating air combined with incorrect ventilation behavior. But pollutants find their way into your rooms in a completely different way.
You should know these pollutants:
- Formaldehyde: This pollutant is especially common indoors. It is contained in many furniture, carpets, fabrics and adhesives and is therefore released into the air.
- Trichlorethylene: This toxin is especially often found in solvents in the form of detergents, paints, plastics or varnish.
- Plasticizer: These enter the air mainly through carpets or PVC.
- Benzene: Do you use a fireplace? The pollutant benzene could then be emitted. This pollutant is also contained in vehicle exhaust fumes or cigarette smoke and can enter the room through the window.
- Carbon dioxide: Carbon dioxide can also enter rooms through the window. We also exhale it and pollute the internal climate.
Pollutants can irritate mucous membranes or cause dizziness, headaches and allergies. Furthermore, many people complain of tiredness and lack of concentration within their own four walls. But how can you eliminate pollutants from your home? Regular shock ventilation it can help a lot. On the other hand, you could air purification systems put into use.
Air purifying plants as pollutant killers
Air-purifying plants are a real insider tip and can help improve your indoor climate. But why is this so?
Here is an overview of the benefits:
Oxygen producers
You know the problem: you come home and are literally overwhelmed by the air? This is probably due to the lack of oxygen in the room. Air-purifying plants provide relief through conventional photosynthesis. Plants use water, carbon dioxide and light to produce glucose. This creates oxygen, which is released into the air.
humidifier
Especially in the winter months, the air in the room is often dry and the humidity is low. Plants that purify the air counteract this phenomenon. Did you know, for example, that a houseplant releases about 97% of the water it receives into the air? This makes them excellent humidifiers and in summer they also lower the room temperature a little.
Filter for toxic substances
Furthermore, air purification systems are the perfect killer of pollutants. They contain special enzymes that convert the above-mentioned substances into harmless amino acids or sugars.
Air purification systems: these are the top 7!
Houseplants not only beautify the environment, but can also improve the indoor climate. As long as you take care of it and choose the right type of plant.
We have put together for you the 7 best plants to purify the air:
1. Ivy
Ivy (Hedera helix) can filter up to 90% of benzene from the air. The plant converts harmful substances such as formaldehyde, benzene, nicotine or carbon dioxide into healthy plant components such as sugar or amino acids. Ivy also contributes to a good indoor climate by acting as a natural air conditioning system in summer. In winter, however, it has an additional insulating effect. Ivy prefers light or partial shade and requires a sufficient water supply. Danger: Indoor ivy is poisonous and should be kept out of reach of children and pets!
2. Drachenbaum
The dragon tree (Dracaena) is a real killer of pollutants. It is the right choice, especially to combat formaldehyde. Filters up to 70% of pollutants in the air in less than 24 hours. At the same time it helps to create a pleasant indoor climate. The dragon tree does not like direct sunlight and should therefore be placed in a shaded place. But be careful: children and animals must not approach the dragon tree. Like ivy, the plant can be poisonous to you. We recommend the dragon tree especially for offices.
3. Bogenhanf
Hemp (Sansevieria), also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, is one of the most popular air purifying plants. Because it filters numerous pollutants from the air such as formaldehyde, benzene and trichlorethylene. Bow hemp is also known as a natural air filter system because it ensures a good supply of oxygen in every room. The plant requires a bright location, but is otherwise very easy to care for and can be placed, for example, on the windowsill. Bow hemp is also very suitable for the bedroom.
4. Spider plant
The spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) mainly filters formaldehyde from the air and converts this pollutant into oxygen. The spider plant is also very easy to care for and robust. It requires only a little water, is non-toxic and prefers light or shade conditions. The spider plant is particularly suitable for the bathroom.
5. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is particularly suitable for people who do not have a green thumb. Because it is robust and easy to maintain. We recommend aloe vera especially for the bedroom, as it produces oxygen even at night and releases it into the air. Another plus point: Aloe vera can also help with sunburn, minor wounds or insect bites. To do this, just cut a piece of leaf and hold it over the affected area.
6. Kentia Palme
The Kentia palm (Howea forsteriana) can be recognized by its large fan-shaped leaves. The potted plant is characterized as a type of plant that improves the internal climate because it produces a particularly high quantity of oxygen. To do this, it breaks down pollutants in the air. When grown as a houseplant, the Kentia palm can reach three meters in height. The air purifying plant is a beautiful decorative element with great properties!
7. Fig birch
The birch fig (Ficus benjamina) is also an ideal destroyer of harmful substances and is particularly useful for the carcinogenic substances formaldehyde and nicotine. Ficus plants are very popular, but also slightly poisonous. Therefore, you should keep them away from children and pets. Even people with latex allergies are better off with another type of plant to purify the air.
latest posts published
Create an insect hotel in your garden
Find out which lighting to use for each part of your garden
Make a modern fire pit yourself
[Photos] Roof garden terraces
Wooden terrace: which species to choose?
The 10 essential aromatic plants for your garden
4 questions to ask yourself before creating a pond in your garden
My selection of 15 plants with purple foliage
Which natural stone to choose for the flooring of your terrace?
