House plants of various types have the unique ability to remove volatile organic compounds from the air. When you find out that indoor air is actually more polluted than the outdoor air in most places, this benefit can seriously boost your physical health. Different plants have varying abilities to remove toxic compounds, but most living plants can effectively remove these harmful elements from the air:
- Benzene: The Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed that this compound is linked to various cancers.
- Formaldehyde: Constant exposure to this compound can cause headaches, runny noses, nausea, and even difficulty breathing. For sensitive individuals, formaldehyde can even trigger asthma attacks or severe respiratory symptoms.
- Carbon monoxide: Exposure to moderate levels of CO may cause confusion and dizziness.
- Nitrogen oxides: Constant exposure to high levels of this compound can trigger chronic respiratory problems and even lung disease.
- Toluene: When exposed to small amounts of this compound, you can develop a headache, feel dizzy, drowsy, or even nauseous.
Indoor plants also offer mental health benefits. Studies have shown that being around plants and nature can reduce stress and anxiety levels. They have also been proven to increase alertness, attention span, concentration, and memory.