Effects of potted plants in the removal of indoor air pollutants: A review

Background: Indoor plants that are used for decorative purposes can remove pollutants that are harmful to humans. This study aimed to compile information to give a broad picture of how indoor plants enhance indoor air quality. Methods: The information sources for this study were Science Direct, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The eligibility criteria included studies with (i) interventions using any indoor plant, (ii) comparators included within the same experimental treatment, (iii) results that included air quality effects objectively measured using any instrument, (iv) research using a controlled study design, and (v) articles published in English. A total of 17 research articles reporting quantitative empirical research published between 2011 to 2022 were selected. The reviewed articles were compiled according to (i) Inferences, (ii) intervention, (iii) plant name, (iv) type of pollutant, (v) experimental setup, (vi) research environment. Results: The effects of indoor plants on air quality were reduced pollutant levels (particularly volatile organic compounds, formaldehyde, Toluene, and ethylbenzene), followed by smoke particles, Nitrogen dioxide, Carbon dioxide, and Carbon monoxide. Conclusion: This study showed that indoor plants have a significant potential to reduce indoor air pollutants and improve indoor occupant comfort, and overall improve public health.