A study carried out by NASA about houseplants and their ability to reduce indoor air pollutants have found some rather interesting results that may help you choose differently next time you purchase your next plant.

As we spend majority of our time indoors, whether at home or work, unknown we are exposed to harmful toxins and pollutants in the air from our everyday products. Chemicals such as trichloroethylene found in things such as printing inks, paints, lacquers; formaldehyde found in paper bags, waxed papers, facial tissues, paper towels, table napkins, synthetic fabrics; benzene found in plastics, dyes, detergents, synthetic fibres, glue paint, furniture wax, tobacco smoke; xylene found in printing, rubber, leather and paint industries, vehicle exhausts; and ammonia found in window cleaners, floor waxes, smelling salts and fertilizers can all have adverse health effects, depending on the amount, duration, and way of exposure of the chemical.

Symptoms of short term exposure to these chemicals can include minor symptoms such as (but not limited to) irritation to the eyes, mouth, nose throat, dizziness, drowsiness through to more severe symptoms such as (but not limited to) heart problems, liver and kidney damage, unconsciousness, and coma.

However, among the list of 18 plants that are the most effective air filters of these harmful chemicals are the Peace Lily, Anthurium, and Dracaena that we provide here at Give Plants. What could be a better eco-friendly and sustainable gift than one of these plants knowing that they are not only stunning but can provide a filter for cleaner air and better health?