NASA just brought some very green news to light—literally. It turns out that the humble pothos plant, something many of us already have hanging in our kitchens or offices, could be doing much more than brightening up the room.
According to NASA’s research, Epipremnum aureum (yep, that’s pothos) can remove up to 73% of air pollutants, including some pretty nasty cancer-causing compounds. If you’re thinking, “Wait, is my houseplant actually a superhero?”—the answer might just be yes.
Pothos
So, what is this miracle plant? You’ve probably seen it around a million times. Heart-shaped leaves, a vibrant green color, and a vine-like nature that either climbs or trails depending on how it’s placed. Native to Southeast Asia, the pothos is famous for being low-maintenance, surviving in low light, and rarely suffering from pests. It’s a favorite for plant lovers—and beginners too.
But what really sets it apart now is its ability to filter out harmful substances from the air. We’re talking about chemicals like formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene—things you definitely don’t want floating around in your living room.
NASA
Back in 1989, NASA conducted a study titled “Interior Landscape Plants for Indoor Air Pollution Abatement.” The goal? To find out which indoor plants could clean the air best. Spoiler alert: pothos made the top of the list.
Why does NASA even care about houseplants? Think about space stations and sealed environments. They need clean air without relying on mechanical systems all the time. Turns out, pothos and a few other plants could help astronauts breathe easier—and if they work in space, imagine what they could do in your apartment.
Pollutants
Here’s the kicker—indoor air can often be more polluted than outdoor air. Especially in cities, or in homes filled with synthetic materials, cleaners, and everyday items that quietly release toxins over time. Even your sofa or carpet might be releasing formaldehyde.
Here’s a quick breakdown of common pollutants and where they come from:
| Pollutant | Common Source |
|---|---|
| Formaldehyde | Furniture, carpets, fabrics |
| Benzene | Paint, tobacco smoke, adhesives |
| Trichloroethylene | Cleaners, solvents, dry cleaning |
These chemicals have been linked to headaches, dizziness, respiratory issues—and even cancer. That’s why the idea of a plant soaking them up while sitting quietly in a corner suddenly sounds a lot more appealing.
Pets
But before you go running to your local plant shop, there’s one important warning: pothos is toxic to pets. If your dog or cat nibbles on it, they could suffer from drooling, vomiting, irritation, or worse.
It contains calcium oxalate crystals, which are sharp and damaging to soft tissues. Cats, especially, are known to be curious and might chew on the leaves. So if you do decide to keep pothos at home with pets, make sure it’s in a high place—on a shelf or hanging basket—out of reach. And keep a close eye for the first few days.
Action
In a world where pollution is becoming a growing concern—and over two billion people lack access to clean water—every small step counts. A plant might seem like a small, symbolic gesture, but it’s actually a real solution. It’s cheap, silent, beautiful, and constantly working to improve the air you breathe.
With just a few pothos plants around your home, you could be taking a meaningful step toward cleaner air and a healthier life. Just remember, while it’s not a cure-all, it’s a smart and stylish tool to have on your side.
Sometimes, nature has already given us the solutions—we just need to pay attention.
FAQs
What is a pothos plant?
Pothos is a low-maintenance indoor plant with air-purifying abilities.
What toxins does pothos remove?
It removes formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene.
Is pothos safe for pets?
No, it’s toxic if ingested by dogs or cats.
What did NASA say about pothos?
NASA found pothos removes up to 73% of indoor air pollutants.
Can pothos grow in low light?
Yes, it thrives in low-light and needs little water.
