Find air purifier expensive? Here are some cheaper and greener options

The last few days have left people of Delhi and NCR gasping for fresh and clean air. With pollution level reaching new high, it created a public health emergency, wherein many complained of burning sensation in eyes, cough and headache. While schools were shut down, general public was seen making a beeline for air purifiers and masks. But besides these, we can also protect ourselves from poor air quality through air purifying houseplants. These plants are easy to care for and are reasonably priced. For efficient air cleaning, NASA suggests, to have at least one plant per 100 square feet of home or office space. Here are some houseplants you can buy to purify the air around you.

Areca Palm
 
It is the best air purifying plant according to the ratings from NASA's research besides having the 8th highest removal rate for a toxic gas named formaldehyde. It keeps home moist throughout dry periods besides continually removing chemical toxins from the air.

Cost: Rs 150-300 for a plant around 3 feet in height

Spider plant

Easy to grow, this plant can remove up to 90 percent of the toxins in your indoor air and also help absorb small traces of formaldehyde and carbon monoxide.

Cost: Rs 40-60

Peace Lily

As much as 60 per cent of the air quality can be improved with this beautiful plant. It also reduces the levels of mold spores besides absorbing harmful vapors from alcohol and acetone.

Cost: Rs 500-600

Aloevera

Known for its medicinal properities, the plant also helps clear air of two human carcinogens-benzene and formaldehyde. The plant loves sun and is intolerant to over watering.

Cost:Rs 100-200

Snake Plant

Unlike other plants, this plant gives oxygen at night and also filters formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, xylene, toluene, and benzene from the air. It is excellent for bedrooms. At least 6-8 such plants are needed per person to survive in case of absolute no air flow.

Cost: Rs 200-150 for a plant of 2 feet in size

Boston Fern

While this plant doesn't grow flowers but is effective at removing formaldehyde and for adding humidity to the indoor environment.

Cost: Rs 400-600

Rubber Plant

The large leaves of this plant can absorb airborne chemicals and break them down. The plant also exhales carbon dioxide and converts it to breathable oxygen. It also eliminates bacteria and mold spores in the air.

Cost: Rs 200-300

English Ivy

Not only it reduces the amount of airborne fecal matter but also absorbs formaldehyde and benzene. It is also an excellent plant for cleansing the air for people suffering from asthma.

Cost: Rs 300-400