healthy small office home officehealthy soho
HealthySOHO | site map | RSS feed   

Using houseplants to clean the air

December 08, 2005

In the office or home office the air can be full of chemicals such as formaldehyde, benzene and ammonia to name a few. The chemicals are released from everyday objects such as carpets, ceiling tiles, cleaning products, drapes, curtains, paints and many other things you would find as part of a home office or office.

peace lilly plants cleans airThis cocktail of chemicals contributes towards what is known as 'Sick building syndrome' and contributes to poor indoor air quality. If you are not familiar with this term you may be familiar with the effects. If you suffer from tiredness, lethargy, allergies, asthma and stress then poor air quality may be a contributing factor.

Houseplants placed in the office can remove many of the dangerous chemicals that are found in the indoor environment. Plants can also have other benefits.

  • Remove harmful chemicals from the air
  • Remove dust from the air
  • Promotes relaxation and reduces blood pressure
  • Helps concentration and memory
  • Reduces anxiety levels
  • Reduces tiredness, coughing, sore throats and cold symptoms

There are certain plants that are ideal for the office or home office such as the Peace lilly (Spathiphyllum wallisii), English ivy (Hedera helix), Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) and Pot Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium). These plants are small and tolerate low light conditions and so are ideal for limited space areas.