Garden: 5 Air-purifying plants for your interior space

Most times we often think having plants in or around our space is somewhat unnecessary. Because, who is going to care for them? you've got so much on your plate and the last thing on your mind is buying plants or tending to them.
However, it takes a lot of discipline and some conscious effort to buy plants and not kill them.

Apart from the aesthetic that plants add to a space(interior and exterior) it also has so many other physical and psychological benefits. Studies have also shown that indoor plants will keep you happier and healthier, which is something we all desire.

Indoor plants or any type of gardening are extremely therapeutic and will help boost your mental and physical well-being. Working with plants may also help reduce depression in a person.

In a 2002 research, it was revealed that amongst people who had several kinds of surgery.
People who had access to greenery had a shorter stay at the care homes (hospital) and a faster recovery rate.

Benefits of indoor plants include;
•Reduce stress and anxiety
•Improves cognitive thinking
•Increases productivity and focus when working
•Helps absorb toxic substances found in man-made materials
•Purify and cleanse indoor air
•Accelerate the healing process
•Helps with dry skin, and respiratory ailments

Below are a few easy care Air-purifying house plants :

1. Succulents- These plants are perfect for plant beginners, if you do not want to commit to taking care of plants consistently then succulents are perfect for you. They are cute and tiny but carry so many benefits, with only minimal care.
Care Level- Easy

2. Snake Plant- Snake plants support better and healthier sleep. This plant is ideal for the bedroom, because of its ability to absorb carbon dioxide and convert it into fresh oxygen, which is released at night. Snake plants are a popular houseplant in homes and offices. In some parts of Africa, the plant has a greater, mystical meaning: it is believed to be used as a protective talisman against evil or bewitchment.

The leaves also have antiseptic qualities that are used for bandages in traditional first aid.

Care Level- Easy

3. Rubber Plant- This is a low-maintenance houseplant and is one of the most popular, with its striking look and natural humidifier. A study found that it had been recommended by NASA as one of the best for cleansing the air. Perfect for brightening up a workstation desk or windowsill.

Care Level: Easy to care for, a rubber plant can grow well on low levels of light. It's worth knowing that it's toxic to dogs and cats, so be extra careful if you have pets.

4. The Money Tree- There is a popular phrase that says "Money doesn't grow trees" but in this plant's case it does(not literally). The money tree is believed to be a symbol of good luck and prosperity and is usually gifted as an office gift. Place your money tree in indirect sunlight for at least 5 hours a day, and only water it when the soil is completely dry.

Care Level- Medium

5. Broad Lady Palm- This plant helps reduce ammonia that can be found in cleaning products. They thrive well in humid areas, so it'll be good to place them in the bathroom.
Care Level- Medium

The amazing benefits of indoor plants or gardening are endless. No matter how relatively tiny your space is, there are small-sized potted air-purifying plants that you can still fit in there.

However it is important to understand that some plants are toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs, but this should not stop you from bringing plants into your space, you can either stick to nontoxic plants or small plants or place your plants out of reach, away from your pets, preferable a balcony or a veranda if you have one.

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Article by; Gbemisola Akinwale
Interior stylist & Lifestyle + Design writer