THE humble house plant can help to "dramatically improve" air quality in our homes, according to researchers.

A study into the purifying capabilities of familiar potted plants such as the peace lily, Boston fern and weeping fig was carried out for the website Gardening Express.

It followed an NHS report into the effects of pollution from furnishings, detergents, paint and more.

Chris Bonnet, founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk, said: “The quality of air inside some homes can be just as bad as the levels of pollution outside.

"The air homeowners breathe in could turn out to be just as bad as walking down a busy street in a city.

“Harmful toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene found in some household items pollute the air which can have an effect on people’s health.

“But thanks to mother nature there are specific plants Brits can use to dramatically improve the air quality inside their homes.

“Acting as a natural air purifier these plants remove many of the harmful toxins and release fresh oxygen, creating a healthier environment to live in.”

Gardening Express says that, according to NASA, plants can eliminate up to 87 per cent of airborne toxins.

The six most effective plants for better air quality are said to be:

l aloe vera, which emits oxygen 24 hours a day, and can soothe kitchen burns

l the peace lily, an easy-to-care-for evergreen

l the snake plant, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, effective at removing formaldehyde, a respiratory irritant commonly used in cleaning products

l English ivy, the ideal choice for a bathroom as it can help to reduce mould

l the Boston fern, thought to rid the air of harmful toxins as well as improving humidity

l and the weeping fig, which naturally filters pollutants.