Courtesy of southernliving.com
A growing concern across the globe is the rise of respiratory-related illness and disease. Whether it’s COPD, Asthma, Allergies, Cystic Fibrosis or Influenza, the reality is that at some point in everybody’s life we’ll all deal with troubles breathing. And based on recent research completed by the CDC in Atlanta the primary trigger factor to most respiratory medical conditions is poor indoor air quality. And since we spend most of our lives indoors – either sleeping or inside our homes, finding affordable – yet natural ways to reduce indoor air pollution is no longer a luxury – it’s required for overall lifestyle management.
Here are three common houseplants that Mother Nature has provided us that can significantly improve the air you breathe daily.
#1: The English Ivy – AKA Hedera Helix
The English Ivy or Hedera Helix is one of the most popular and common indoor plants in the United States. It’s a climbing vine-type plant that thrives in smaller space or closed off locations. It also tends to do very well in rooms that have very few windows or direct sunlight. This makes them a great option for Scottsdale homes, as our houses tend to have fewer windows to allow hot sun to enter our house.
How does it help indoor air pollution?
Just like any other plant, its primary food source is carbon-dioxide. However, this dense houseplant is also excellent at absorbing formaldehyde – which is the most popular and intense indoor pollutant that is given off by wood floorboards and synthetic dyes inside many carpets. This indoor odor is often un recognizable but still can cause significant damage to our lungs with prolonged exposure.
#2: The Peace Lily – AKA Spathiphyllum
If you’re looking for an indoor plant that can reduce indoor air pollution sources along with providing a sweet aroma – the Peace Lily or Spathiphyllum might be right for you. This flower is also another indoor house plant (flower) that adapts very well in low light environments, which makes it a great option for Scottsdale homes in the summer season when we close our window shades frequently. The negative is that it does require weekly watering and is not very pet friendly. In fact, it can be very poisonous to pets – so placement on higher shelves is a smart idea.
How it helps to Reduce indoor air pollution in Scottsdale: The Peace Lily is a year round plant that removes carcinogens that are found in varnish, paint, furniture waxes and polish. However, did you know that acetone – which is emitted by electronic devices, many adhesives and cleaning products are also absorbed by this plant.
#3: The Lady Palm – AKA Rhapis Excelsa
We see palm trees all the time in the Scottsdale area, but did you know that The Lady Palm or Rhapis Excelsa is a great source of improving indoor air quality? One of the best indoor air pollution solutions is to buy a few Lady Palms and place them strategically around your home. These are very easy to maintain – and the beautiful palm leaves add some spice to your home.
How does it help reduce indoor air pollution?
Like other Palm Trees, the Lady Palm is a target of ammonia – which is the primary ingredient in household cleaners, many textiles and dyes that make those cabinets look so clean. Ammonia is also one of the harshest chemicals on the planet for your lungs as it clogs up the brachia inside your lungs and can lead to allergy attacks, COPD flare ups and asthma issues.
Living in Scottsdale is tons of fun – and we often spend lots of our time outdoors. However, the reality is that we all have indoor air pollution to deal with. So why not look into buying a few of these common houseplants to improve your lifestyle. After all – everybody has the Right to Breathe.
___________________________
Have questions about indoor air quality at your home or office and need a trustworthy, established company? Scottsdale Air Heating & Cooling has been the leading Scottsdale indoor air quality specialists for over 45 years! Call 480.359.7141 today!
