How to Grow Fresh Air – by B.C. Wolverton

Common indoor plants may provide a valuable weapon in the fight against rising levels of indoor air pollution. NASA scientists are finding them to be surprisingly useful in absorbing harmful gases.

It is suggested that one plant should be allowed for approximately 10 square yards of floor space, assuming average ceiling heights of 8 to 9 feet . This means that you need two or three plants to contribute to good air quality in the average domestic living room of about 20 to 25 square yards.

Each plant type was placed in sealed, Plexiglas chambers in which chemicals were injected. Philodendron, spider plant and the golden pothos were labeled the most effective in removing formaldehyde molecules . Flowering plants such as gerbera daisy and chrysanthemums were rated superior in removing benzene from the chamber atmosphere. Other good performers are Dracaena Massangeana , Spathiphyllum, and Golden Pothos.

TOP 10 plants most effective in removing:

formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide from the air.

Chemicals Used

Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a commercial product found in a wide variety of industrial uses. Over 90 percent of the TCE produced is used in the metal degreasing and dry cleaning industries. In addition, it is used in printing inks, paints, lacquers, varnishes, and adhesives . In 1975 the National Cancer Institute reported that an unusually high incidence of hepatocellular carcinomas was observed in mice given TCE by gastric intubation and now considers this chemical a potent liver carcinogen.

Benzene is a very commonly used solvent and is also present in many common items including gasoline, inks, oils, paints, plastics, and rubber . In addition it is used in the manufacture of detergents , explosives, pharmaceuticals , and dyes.

Benzene has long been known to irritate the skin and eyes. Chronic exposure to even relatively low levels causes headaches, loss of appetite, drowsiness, nervousness.

Formaldehyde is a ubiquitous chemical found in virtually all indoor environments . The major sources which have been reported and publicized include urea-formaldehyde foam insulation (UFFI) and particle board or pressed wood products. It is used in paper products including grocery bags, waxed papers, facial tissues and paper towels. Many common household cleaning agents contain formaldehyde . UF resins are used as stiffeners, wrinkle resisters, water repellents, fire retardants and adhesive binders in floor coverings, carpet backings and permanent-press clothes . Other sources of formaldehyde include heating and cooking fuels like natural gas , kerosene, and cigarette smoke .

Formaldehyde irritates the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose and throat. The most widely reported symptoms from exposure to high levels of this chemical include irritation of the eyes and headaches. Until recently, the most serious of the diseases attributed to formaldehyde exposure was asthma .