For people who suffer from allergies or asthma, the quality of indoor air is incredibly important.
Dust, mold, and airborne toxins often trigger symptoms, making the home environment uncomfortable.
One natural way to improve indoor air quality is by adding plants. Certain indoor plants are known for their ability to filter pollutants, increase humidity, and release oxygen, which helps reduce respiratory issues.
Choosing the right varieties can make your living space not only more beautiful but also healthier. Here are ten of the best indoor plants for allergies and asthma.
1. Areca Palm
The Areca Palm is one of the best natural humidifiers among houseplants. Its feathery fronds release plenty of moisture into the air, which helps ease breathing difficulties caused by dry air—a common trigger for asthma and allergies.
This plant is also effective at filtering airborne toxins like formaldehyde and xylene, often found in household products.
Place it in a bright corner of your home with indirect sunlight, and it will thrive while keeping the air fresh.
2. Snake Plant
Snake Plant, also called Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, is famous for being one of the easiest plants to care for, but it also offers strong health benefits.
It’s unique because it continues to release oxygen at night, which can help people breathe better while sleeping.
The stiff, upright leaves also filter toxins such as nitrogen oxides and formaldehyde. Since it tolerates low light and minimal watering, it’s perfect for bedrooms and other low-maintenance spaces.
3. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is more than just a soothing remedy for burns—it’s a powerful air purifier.
This succulent removes harmful chemicals like benzene and formaldehyde from the air, which can irritate the lungs.
Its gel-like interior can also be harvested for topical skin use. Aloe grows best in bright, indirect light and doesn’t require frequent watering, making it both practical and therapeutic.
4. Spider Plant
Spider Plants are particularly good at absorbing allergens and pollutants, including carbon monoxide and formaldehyde.
Their arching green and white striped leaves also trap dust particles, preventing them from circulating in the air. Spider plants are non-toxic, making them safe for homes with pets and children.
They are very easy to grow and can adapt to different light conditions, which makes them a reliable option for allergy-friendly spaces.
5. Peace Lily
Peace Lilies are elegant plants that bring both beauty and health benefits to the home. They absorb mold spores in the air, making them especially helpful for people with allergies.
In addition, they filter toxins such as trichloroethylene and benzene. Peace Lilies thrive in low light and only need weekly watering.
Their glossy green leaves and occasional white flowers make them an attractive and useful choice for any room.
6. Bamboo Palm
Bamboo Palm is another strong natural humidifier that helps improve indoor air moisture levels.
Dry air can worsen asthma, so this plant’s ability to increase humidity makes it particularly helpful. Bamboo Palms also filter benzene and trichloroethylene from the air.
They prefer indirect light and consistent watering, and with the right care, they can grow quite tall, adding a lush, tropical touch to the home.
7. Gerbera Daisy
Known for its bright and cheerful flowers, the Gerbera Daisy is not only decorative but also highly effective at improving air quality.
It removes toxins like benzene and trichloroethylene, which can irritate lungs and trigger asthma symptoms.
Because of its ability to release extra oxygen during the night, it’s a good option for bedrooms. Gerbera Daisies need bright light to bloom and should be watered carefully to prevent root rot.
8. Rubber Plant
The Rubber Plant is a hardy, low-maintenance houseplant that is excellent at filtering airborne toxins.
Its large, shiny leaves are also effective at trapping dust particles, which reduces allergens in the air.
Rubber Plants prefer indirect light and moderate watering. Since they grow quickly, they can become statement plants in your home while also improving respiratory health.
9. Dracaena
Dracaena plants are highly efficient at removing harmful toxins like xylene, benzene, and trichloroethylene from indoor air.
They are also quite adaptable, available in a wide variety of sizes and leaf patterns. Dracaenas prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions as well.
Because of their strong air-purifying qualities, they are a solid choice for homes of people who suffer from asthma or frequent allergies.
10. Boston Fern
Boston Ferns are among the best natural humidifiers, constantly adding moisture to the air.
They are especially beneficial in winter, when heating systems can dry out indoor spaces and trigger asthma.
Their lush fronds also filter out airborne pollutants and dust, improving air quality significantly. Boston Ferns prefer indirect light and high humidity, so they thrive best when misted regularly.
Tips for Growing Allergy-Friendly Plants
- Keep them clean: Wipe leaves regularly with a damp cloth to prevent dust buildup.
- Change soil or water often: Fresh soil and clean water reduce mold and bacteria.
- Avoid overwatering: Excess moisture can lead to mold growth, which may worsen allergies.
- Choose the right spot: Place plants in rooms where you spend the most time, like bedrooms or living rooms.
- Monitor reactions: Everyone’s allergies are different—observe how you feel around each plant.