Green filters for your home

Modern buildings are designed to maximise energy efficiency to relieve energy costs. Two major changes in building designs for improved energy efficiency are super-insulation and reduced fresh air exchange. Building occupants often complain about health problems like itchy eyes, drowsiness, headaches etc. Research has shown that the airtight sealing of buildings contributes to the emission of “off-gas”; which is organic in nature. Office equipment and furnishings also contribute to this. Man himself is a source of air pollution especially during meetings when groups of people are confined to a closed room. All these factors collectively contribute to “sick building syndrome”, which refers to acute physical and mental health issues due to poor indoor air quality. Common symptoms include itchy throat, eye and nose; asthma; migraine; fatigue; and skin irritation.

Green in a chrome jungle

Most of our life is spent breathing indoor air. Indoor plants can purify this air. Studies show that plants and their associated soil microorganisms can abate air pollution. Certain pots contain activated charcoal which adsorbs pollutants. In the rhizosphere (plant root-soil zone associated with the microorganisms), foreign chemicals are degraded and the products are then utilised by the plant.

Best plant practices

There are many indoor plants that absorb certain harmful gas emissions. While a majority of them survive well indoors under low sunlight, they need periodic exposure to sunlight, which depends on the colour of the leaves. In any case, in direct sunlight, keep the plant near a window instead of outdoors.

Some plants, like anthuriums and peace lilies, can be grown with or without soil. These can be grown as epiphytes, or plants that grow by absorbing moisture and nutrients from air. These plants normally derive nutrients from rain water, but under indoor conditions, you can spray the roots with weak fertiliser solutions, without overwatering.

Plant wisely

Many plants also have harmful effects. Those belonging to the Arum family must be maintained with caution. Ingestion can cause health hazards so keep them away from children. Due to high crystals present in parts of the plants, handling those bruised parts can also cause skin irritation. Aralia, Spider plant, Golden cane palm, Peperomia, Spiderworts are the best plants for indoor conditions.

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