Demand Grows For Air-Purifying Plants

As concerns over air pollution continue to rise, demand for air-purifying indoor plants has grown significantly, with more homeowners seeking natural ways to improve indoor air quality and promote healthier living spaces. While houseplants add beauty and greenery to interiors, they are equally valued for creating a calmer, more inviting living environment and supporting overall well-being.

A Greener, Healthier Home

As winter smog and pollution levels rise, maintaining healthy indoor air becomes increasingly important. “Reading about the benefits of air-purifying plants inspired me to add a few varieties such as Snake Plant, Rubber Plant, Money Plant, Areca Palm, and Dracaena to my home. They make my living space feel fresh, peaceful, and welcoming. Nurturing them helps me relax, and watching them grow gives me immense satisfaction. Their greenery adds beauty to my home and keeps me connected to nature,” says Yashoda Sharma, Account Manager, Communication Casa, Thane.

Natural Air-Purifiers

The growing popularity of air-purifying plants reflects a broader desire to reconnect with nature and create healthier indoor spaces. “Interest surged after the Covid-19 pandemic as people became more conscious of their health and living environments. Increasingly, indoor plants are valued not just for their decorative appeal, but for the sense of well-being and connection to nature they bring. Many consumers also became aware that certain plants can absorb airborne pollutants in controlled conditions, giving greenery a role that extends beyond aesthetics,” says Priyanka Amar, Ecopreneur, Founder, iKheti Mumbai.

Home Green Corners

Popular air-purifying plants include Snake Plant, Money Plant (Pothos), Areca Palm, ZZ Plant and Spider Plant. “Among these, Snake Plant and Money Plant have witnessed strong demand, with several new varieties entering the market. Their popularity stems from their attractive appearance, low maintenance needs and ability to thrive indoors. Snake Plant and ZZ Plant are particularly favoured because they require minimal watering and perform well even in low-light conditions,” says Hemlata Mehta, who has co-founded Nisarg Nursery (in Mumbai) with Shakti Mehta.

Many are creating mini green corners in homes, balconies, and window spaces. Beyond adding visual appeal, indoor plants can help create a calmer indoor environment. “Even a glance at greenery can have a soothing effect. Much of a plant’s air-purifying ability comes from the root zone, where beneficial microorganisms help break down pollutants, while the leaves contribute to cleaner air through natural processes,” adds Mehta, who is a bonsai master.

Green Offices

Biophilic design brings nature into workspaces through indoor plants, green walls, and natural elements to create healthier, calmer, and more productive environments. “Air-purifying plants can be incorporated into air-conditioned spaces and contribute to visual comfort and well-being. However, they should complement, not replace, proper ventilation, air circulation and filtration systems for maintaining good indoor air quality,” adds Priyanka.

Healthier Living Spaces

Scientific studies have helped highlight the air-purifying potential of indoor plants. The widely cited NASA Clean Air Study (1989) found that certain houseplants can absorb pollutants such as benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene, drawing attention to the role of greenery in healthier indoor environments. While plants alone cannot significantly clean indoor air in real-world settings, they enhance ambience, bring nature indoors and contribute to a sense of well-being. In most homes, two to three healthy plants in a bedroom or living room can create a fresher, more inviting atmosphere,” says Priyanka.

Air-purifying plants can also be kept in air-conditioned spaces. “However, they should complement rather than replace proper ventilation and air filtration systems, which remain essential for maintaining good indoor air quality,” adds Priyanka.

Truth vs Hype

Exposure to green spaces can help lower stress levels and promote relaxation. Air-purifying plants such as snake plants, areca palms, and pothos are often associated with improved indoor air quality, but their effect in homes is limited.

“While laboratory studies show that some plants can remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs), their impact in homes is limited. Their biggest benefits are adding greenery, enhancing ambience and supporting well-being. For cleaner indoor air, proper ventilation and air purifiers remain more effective. Allergy sufferers should also be cautious, as damp soil can encourage mould growth and some flowering plants may release pollen. While indoor plants offer aesthetic and wellness benefits, maintaining healthy indoor air relies primarily on proper ventilation and effective air filtration,” says Dr Sunil Kumar K, Lead Consultant, Interventional Pulmonology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru.

Avoid crowding too many plants in one corner. “Instead, place healthy plants throughout your home to create a balanced, refreshing environment. Regularly wipe the leaves clean to remove dust, helping the plants absorb light more efficiently and stay healthy. In case you have pets at home, be aware of the toxicity of the plant before you bring it into your house,” adds Dr Kumar.

Indoor Plant Care

A common misconception is that indoor plants can thrive without sunlight. Most still need natural light or artificial grow lights placed close to the plant. Equally important is the growing medium, which should provide good drainage, retain adequate moisture, and support healthy root development. Many indoor gardeners use soilless mixes with LECA (Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate), coco chips, pumice, vermicompost and leaf mould, tailoring blends to different plant varieties,” states Mehta.

Every home has its own microclimate, so plant care involves observation and experimentation. New plant parents should not be discouraged if a plant dies. Keep learning and nurturing plants, as they contribute to overall well-being.

GREENZONE

• Popular air-purifying plants include Snake Plant, Money Plant (Pothos),Areca Palm, ZZ Plant and Spider Plant.

• Certain houseplants can absorb pollutants such as benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene (NASA Clean Air Study (1989)