We’ve all seen those trendy Instagram posts with lush, green indoor jungles, claiming they’re basically personal air purifiers. And yes, a lot of us have rolled our eyes a little. After all, it sounds a bit too good to be true. But here’s the thing: while they’re not going to replace a full-blown air purifier in a super-polluted room, they do make a difference.
The skepticism isn’t totally unfounded. It’s true that some of the early, super-hyped NASA studies on plants and air purification were done in sealed chambers, which don’t exactly mimic our living rooms, but that doesn’t mean plants are useless.
Plants are natural air exchangers. They take in carbon dioxide, which we exhale, and release oxygen, which we need to breathe. That’s basic biology. But they also do more than that. Studies have shown that plants can actually absorb certain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are the nasty chemicals released from things like furniture, paint, and cleaning products.
For example, a study published in the Journal of the Air & Waste Management Association found that certain houseplants, like spider plants and golden pothos, were effective at removing formaldehyde and xylene from the air. And while it might take a whole lot of plants to notice huge changes in a large space, even a few can contribute to a healthier environment.
It’s not just the leaves doing the work either. The soil and the microorganisms living in it play a role in breaking down pollutants. They’re like tiny, natural filters in their own right. Plus, plants help regulate humidity, which is a bonus, especially in dry climates or during winter.
While the plant-powered air purification is happening, it is good to have a way to quantify the effects. For a well-rounded understanding of your home’s IAQ, uHoo air quality monitors can provide valuable data on VOC levels and other pollutants.
So, are plants miracle air cleaners? Probably not. But can they make a positive impact? Absolutely. They’re a natural, aesthetically pleasing way to boost your indoor air quality. And hey, even if they only make a tiny difference, they look good doing it.
