Are indoor plants beneficial for lungs?
Written by
Robert Kelly
Reviewed by
Prof. William Dalton, Ph.D.Some indoor plants can be beneficial for your respiratory system. In contrast, others may be potentially harmful, depending on the care methods used. Air-purifying varieties remove indoor air toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene. Soil mold resulting from overwatered plants, however, can elicit an allergic response. Appropriate plant selection and care can produce quality air to breathe.
Beneficial Mechanisms
- Peace lilies absorb airborne mold spores effectively
- Spider plants reduce formaldehyde levels by 90% in 24 hours
- English ivy decreases airborne fecal matter particles
- Plants increase humidity reducing respiratory irritation
Potential Risks
- Overwatered soil breeds mold triggering asthma attacks
- Pollen from flowering plants worsens seasonal allergies
- Fungal gnats spread spores affecting sensitive individuals
- Toxic sap from some species causes airway inflammation
Optimal Placement
- Group plants near windows for sunlight and air circulation
- Avoid bedrooms if sensitive to nighttime oxygen fluctuations
- Use exhaust fans in high-humidity rooms like bathrooms
- Position away from HVAC vents preventing spore distribution
Implement safe care protocols to maximize results. Use well-draining soil mixes that avoid waterlogging. Water only when the top of the soil is completely dry. Use the hydrogen peroxide solution monthly as a preventative method against mold. Newly added plants should be isolated for two weeks while confirming they have no pests.
Identify warning signs that necessitate the removal of a plant. If you are coughing more at night or waking up congested in the morning, look for white fungal growth on the surface of the soil and watch for humidity levels that remain low, as this requires adjustments for respiratory safety.
Integrate plants with other efforts to improve air quality. Continuously run HEPA filters that capture spores that escape the plants. Open windows every day for cross ventilation. Use dehumidifiers in rooms with lots of plants. This layered approach creates the best conditions for indoor breathing.
If you're sensitive, think of different approaches. Air-purifying machines offer filtration without biological risks. Alternatively, consider Salt lamps, which have limited ionization benefits, or bamboo charcoal bags to absorb odors. Prioritize solutions that work with your respiratory needs and your ability to maintain them.
Read the full article: 10 Essential Steps to Improve Lung Capacity
