Householders urged to place plants near windows and doors this summer
British homeowners are being advised to place house plants close to windows and doors this month as hay fever season peaks. Pollen levels rise between late March to September, with the first peak being the first two weeks in June.
In late March, tree pollen is released and lasts until mid-way before grass pollen takes over and is active until July. Shortly after this weed pollen peaks from late June until September. This timeline can vary depending on where you live. The north of Britain usually has less pollen than the south of the UK.
It's believed grass pollen affects the majority of hay fever sufferers. This is what usually causes symptoms in people in June and July.
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There is currently no cure for hay fever and it is managed with preventative medication and measures, including antihistamines. Experts believe there are several things people can do at home to help minimise pollen exposure, reports the Express.
One easy thing experts recommend is introducing some house plants into your home, as these not only help filter air pollutants, they can also trap pollen.
Some good options to introduce include Dracaena plants, Pothos, Peace Lilies and snake plants. Simply place them on windowsills and by doors to help trap pollen particles that enter your home.
Haldi Kranich-Wood, Wool Interiors Specialist at British Wool, says: 'Make a pollen trap with house plants. Some house plants, like spider plants, peace lilies, or Boston ferns, act like natural air filters and can help trap airborne particles, including pollen.
'Try positioning a few by your windows and doors to create a leafy line of defence. Just make sure to wipe their leaves regularly, that trapped pollen still needs evicting.'
Online doctor and pharmacy e-Surgery adds: "Certain plants can eliminate toxins in the air so they may be beneficial in reducing allergy symptoms. The best plants to keep in the house are ones that remove formaldehyde and benzene, both of which can be harmful to those that suffer from allergies. Plants that do not flower are best for hay fever sufferers.
"Some plants can absorb toxins through their leaves and release moisture which can reduce dust in the air. The best plant for cleaning the air is Aloe as having one of the plants in your house is equivalent to nine biological air cleaners.
"Another which is just as good is a spider plant. Spider plants are efficient at getting rid of the harmful compounds' formaldehyde, styrene, carbon monoxide, and benzene. The plants are also super adaptable to living inside as they can photosynthesis under very little lighting.
"The snake plant, or also known as Mother-In-Law's Tongue is almost indestructible, so this is a particularly good one if you're not the best at caring for your plants. It's also good at cleaning the air around itself so is perfect for allergy sufferers."
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