Nature’s Air Purifiers: Five NASA-Approved Houseplants For Indian Homes

Indoor air pollution is often underestimated, with dust, volatile organic compounds from paints, and poor ventilation contributing to unhealthy environments. NASA’s 1989 study “Interior Landscape Plants for Indoor Air Pollution Abatement” identified several houseplants that act as natural air purifiers.  

For Indian households, five plants stand out for their resilience and effectiveness: 

• Snake Plant (Sansevieria): Filters toxins and thrives in low light.  
• Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Easy to grow, removes carbon monoxide and formaldehyde.  
• Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum): Absorbs mold spores and VOCs, adds elegance indoors.  
• Aloe Vera: Purifies benzene and formaldehyde, doubles as a medicinal plant.  
• Areca Palm: Humidifies air naturally while filtering pollutants.  

While plants cannot replace mechanical air purifiers, they contribute to fresher, healthier indoor spaces. Their adaptability to Indian climates makes them ideal for homes and offices, combining wellness with natural beauty.  

Key Highlights  

• Snake plant, spider plant, peace lily, aloe vera, areca palm  
• NASA study identified plants that filter indoor toxins  
• Effective against benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene  
• Thrives in Indian homes with minimal care  
• Adds both health benefits and aesthetic value  

Sources: India Today Lifestyle Desk, Pune Pulse, NRI Page