Five houseplants that purify air and boost oxygen at night
A Russian scientist has identified five houseplants that remove carcinogens and carbon dioxide from indoor air through nighttime CAM photosynthesis.
Key Takeaways
AIAssociate Professor Yekaterina Dubrovina of Pirogov Medical University has identified five houseplants that help purify indoor air by removing carbon dioxide and carcinogens through CAM photosynthesis, a process that releases oxygen and absorbs pollutants at night.
Dubrovina explained that aloe vera is among the best options, as it generates oxygen at night and effectively neutralizes formaldehyde.
She also noted that kalanchoe enriches bedroom air with oxygen during the night, which can improve sleep quality.
Additionally, Dubrovina highlighted that sansevieria (snake plant) is a leading producer of nighttime oxygen and is notable for filtering benzene and formaldehyde from the air.
She added that chlorophytum (spider plant) not only increases oxygen levels but also absorbs dust and harmful particles.
In the same context, Dubrovina said that spathiphyllum (peace lily) humidifies the air around the clock and purifies it from toxic compounds such as acetone, ammonia, and benzene.
She advised placing the plants in the bedroom at a distance of 0.5 to 2 meters from the bed, and recommended limiting the number to two large plants to prevent mold growth due to excess humidity.
Dubrovina also stressed the importance of ensuring the plants are non-toxic to pets before purchase, and emphasized avoiding stagnant humidity in the bedroom.