More than 300 volatile organic compounds, also known as VOCs, could be in your house at any given time, according to horticulturalists at the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. VOCs can be emitted by a number of common household items, including carpet, books, paint and some adhesives. Some houseplants can absorb VOCs, purifying the air in your home or office and reducing the risk that you'll get sick from air contaminants.
Purple Waffle Plant
University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences researchers found that purple waffle plant (Hemigraphis alternata) was the most effective plant for absorbing VOCs from the air.
English Ivy
English ivy (Hedera helix) demonstrated an ability to absorb VOCs in the University of Georgia study. It also absorbed benzene, a VOC produced by tobacco smoke, in a 1989 study conducted by NASA and the Associated Landscape Contractors of America (ALCA).
Variegated Wax Plant
Variegated wax plant (Hoya carnosa) also proved to be good at absorbing VOCs in the University of Georgia study.
Asparagus Fern
Asparagus fern (Asparagus densiflorus) was another of the most successful VOC-absorbing house plants in the University of Georgia study.
Spider Plants
Spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum) absorbed 96 percent of the carbon monoxide in a controlled environment within a 24-hour period in the NASA study, making them one of the most effective air purifiers in that research.
Golden Pothos
The NASA study also reported that golden pothos (epipremnum aureum) successfully absorbed 75 percent of carbon monoxide VOCs over 24 hours.
