NASA has released an infographic, containing plants with the highest oxygen-releasing, and air purifying capabilities.

Humans and plants rely on each other to survive.  Plants give humans oxygen, food, clothing and shelter. In exchange, humans release carbon dioxide, which plants need, and distribute plant seeds throughout the world.

Plants provide us with oxygen, via a process called photosynthesis. This is where sunlight combines with carbon dioxide and water to provide food for the plant, and clean breathable air for us.

In a world filled with industrial factories, countless V8 gas-guzzlers, and rapidly increasing deforestation rates, who couldn’t use more clean air?

In the 1980’s NASA, along with with the Associated Contractors of America, conducted thorough research to determine which plants were effective at filtering out toxins like benzene, ammonia and formaldehyde from the air.

The study, led by Dr. B. C. Wolverton, might be from  25 years ago, but it is still considered to be the most accurate and comprehensive results to date.

The following infographic comes to you from Love The Garden, and contains information on the most effective common indoor plants for filtering harmful toxins and pollutants from the air. For full size click here.

NASA recommends placing 1 of these houseplants per 100 square feet, to attain optimal air purification results.   So, whether it is for your office, your home, or even your car (yes, I have a plant in my car) you can purify the air around you, and start reaping the benefits our ancestors once did when they were surrounded by plant-life. You know, before we kind of ruined everything.

It is also important to note that several of these plant species are known to be toxic to domesticated pets. If you have a cat, a dog, or any other type of pet who could get into these plants, please check the toxicity levels before bringing them into your home.

(h/t Love The Garden)