Earlier, houseplants were only considered as the province of an older generation, that too for the one who had time, knowledge and space to tend them. However, they are now also popular with a younger and cooler crowd.

If you or anyone in your family has allergies, a habit of smoking or just want to enjoy fresh, cleaner air in their homes, take this piece of advice from Rajesh Goyal, MD, RG Group and Ashwani Prakash, Executive Director, Paramount Group on how houseplants can purify the air around you.

Certain plants act as green and long lasting gifts and clear pollutants from the air.

Palms:

The hardy houseplants are easy to grow and are perfect boosters for lifting people's spirits. They are the ultimate natural air purifiers and remove formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide from the surroundings. The freshness spread by them is distracting from otherwise drab surroundings.

Peace Lilies:

Peace lilies spread freshness for a longer period of time. They thrive in the shade in temperatures below 12 degrees Celsius and remove harmful toxins like acetone, ammonia, benzene, ethyl acetate, formaldehyde, methyl alcohol, trichloroethylene, and xylene.

Ferns:

Ferns are not as fascinating but have survived since pre-historic times. Their soft feathery leaves contribute to increasing their preference. Also, by freeing the air from toluene and xylene, they help us get rid of air pollution.

Schefflera:

Schefflera is the ones with glossy, sturdy-looking oval leaves that almost look unreal because of their waxy shine. Adding to this, they also soak up nasty toxins like benzene, formaldehyde, and toluene so, like palms, they are good for households where there is a smoker.

Anthuriums:

Anthuriums are not just pretty, they also make lovely and long lasting gifts because of their exotic looking blooms. They are a thoughtful present for a work place with their large and dark leaves that suck up ammonia, formaldehyde, toluene and xylene.