This edition of Hood Health 101 looks at the power of plants
We are living in a time when it has become normal to experience chemical trails, excessive air pollution, and toxic household products. Most of the time we are unaware of how much we contribute to the toxicity of our home environment as well. How often are we reading the labels of our cleaning products? Do we know the VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) levels of the paint in your home? There are so many factors that go into creating a healthier home environment for yourself and your children. One of the biggest concerns that I have is the quality of air within the home. We all have to breathe, and inhaling toxic fumes can affect your overall health in a myriad of ways. One of the simplest ways to help to clean the air within your home naturally is to get plants. That’s right, plants naturally purify the air! Now, I do understand that we all do not have green thumbs, and so I have included plants that require minimal care.
Aloe Vera Plant
This plant is great at removing formaldehyde and benzene from the air. These two chemicals can be found in a great deal of paints and household cleaners. Aloe Vera plants love sunlight so placing them in a window is good for them.
Snake Plant
This type of plant helps remove formaldehyde. It flourishes in low light and steamy conditions. That being said, the bathroom or the kitchen counter may be the perfect place for this plant.
Chrysanthemums
This beautiful plant filters benzene from the air, which you commonly find in paint, types of plastics, some detergents, and glue. This plant needs a good deal of sunlight so it should be placed near a window in direct sunlight.
Weeping Fig
Weeping Figs filter formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from the air. These chemicals can be found in various types of carpeting and furniture. This plant requires a bit more care than the others listed. Watering and determining the proper amount of light is the trick, but once you get that down packed your good to go.
Chinese Evergreen Plant
This plant helps to remove a variety of toxins, and removes more as time and contact progresses. This plant is super easy to care for and even performs well in low light areas.
These are small simple acts that anyone can do to help remove toxins from the air within your home. Take time to visit a local plant nursery where you can ask questions about which plants are good for air purification, and also meet your ability to care for them. I also recommend that you try to cut down on chemical based cleaners, and move toward natural materials or fibers when you can.
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– Nakeasha Johnson (@NakeashaJ)
