We want to think our air is nice and clean but the truth is, there are plenty of microbes floating around that can irritate us and even make us sick. To help purify your air, you can turn to a natural source, such as aloe vera plants.
Does aloe vera clean air: Aloe vera is a succulent that is easy to care for. During its process of photosynthesis, it takes in carbon dioxide and other unwanted elements from the air. Then, it synthesizes this and produces oxygen. The toxins are trapped inside the cells of the aloe vera plant and broken down into less harmful compounds.
What are VOCs?
When researching houseplants, you might come across the acronym VOC. This stands for volatile organic compounds. They are characterized as having low water solubility and high vapor pressure.
VOCs are in the air all around us, even though we can’t see them. They are a byproduct of chemicals from paints, refrigerants, and other solvents.
While VOCs exist outside, they are more heavily concentrated indoors as they become trapped by the walls in our homes. Furthermore, the products we use every day, such as cleaning supplies, craft materials, and office supplies can all emit trace amounts of VOCs.
Do aloe vera plants filter air?
Yes, amazingly, aloe vera plants can filter the air in your home. They do so by taking in carbon dioxide and transforming it into oxygen.
During this process, aloe very plants will also remove VOCs, which, as mentioned earlier, float around without being seen but are quite toxic.
You don’t have to do anything to get this process going. The innate construction of aloe vera plants means they will do the work all on their own.
How does aloe vera clean air the quality?
Like all plants, aloe vera uses the process of photosynthesis to create energy. This is when plants use sunlight to change carbon dioxide and water into energy. A byproduct of this process is oxygen.
While all plants perform photosynthesis, aloe vera plants are even better at clearing the air while doing so. This means that while you will get some benefits from any houseplant, having certain plants like aloe vera in your home means your air will be that much cleaner.
Ridding the air of VOCs is a bit complicated so we’ll try to walk you through the process. First, the VOCs are naturally in the air so they are taken up by aloe very plants during the photosynthesis process.
During this time, VOCs are held inside the cells of the plant so they aren’t released right away. Then, the aloe vera plant breaks down the carbon chains of VOCs which then creates other organic compounds, such as amino acids.
The safer compounds are then used by the plant or further broken down by microorganisms in the root structure. If any compounds are released back into the air, they are in a much safer form.
Other benefits of aloe vera
Wound healing
If you’ve ever had a bad sunburn, you might have applied an aloe vera lotion. This is because aloe vera is effective at topically treating first and second-degree burns.
Instead of buying fancy lotions, you can simply cut off a tip of your aloe vera plant and rub the plant over a burn. It will help soothe the area as well as heal other wounds it is placed on.
Healthy compounds
While you don’t want to cut your aloe very plant up every day, it will survive if you prune it back and then use the cut-off leaves.
Once you cut off part of the aloe vera leaves you will find a gel-like substance in them. This is full of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. Squeeze it into a smoothie or if you don’t mind the taste, throw the whole leaf in for a healthy kickstart to the day.
Mouthwash
Interestingly, you can use aloe vera plants as a natural mouthwash. The juice inside aloe vera plants is effective at reducing dental plaque.
It kills the harmful bacteria in your mouth, which helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Simply chew on a piece of your aloe vera plant to get these benefits.
Prevents wrinkles
There is more evidence that aloe vera can help to prevent the appearance of wrinkles by slowing the skin’s natural aging. It does so by producing more collagen which improves the elasticity of your skin.
Aloe vera helps skin retain more moisture which is extremely beneficial. It may also help with acne and eczema.
Treats canker sores
Canker sores are incredibly annoying. They pop up inside your mouth or underneath your lip and can make eating painful.
However, to help get rid of them faster, you can try aloe vera. You can use a gel or a patch on the affected area.
Other plant alternatives for purifying your home
Spider plants
Many homes already have spider plants as they are easy to care for and look good with almost any décor. There are many different species of spider plants, so you can find an option you like best.
Spider plants need moist soil, so be sure to water twice a week. You can find smaller versions for tight areas or larger varieties if you have more room for them.
Golden pothos
While you do need a bit of room for this plant, as it can grow up to 8 feet tall, Golden pothos will expertly clean your air. The leaves are a mixture of cream and green but they are toxic, so be sure to keep them out of reach of pets and children.
Chrysanthemums
Unfortunately, chrysanthemums don’t last very long as they need very tropical conditions to thrive. However, you can still reap all their benefits while they’re alive.
Most chrysanthemums bloom in the fall and they are especially adept at removing toxins and ammonia from your air.
Conclusion
Aloe vera plants have a lot of benefits. The gel inside their leaves can heal wounds, tend to burns, and prevent wrinkles. Aloe vera plants are especially good at removing toxins, known as VOCs from the air, to create a healthier home.
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