According to NASA, certain common indoor plants may provide a natural way of removing toxic agents like benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene from the air in our homes and offices.

The study was not conducted under realistic home or office conditions, and the few studies that have been conducted under such conditions show mixed results. Still, it’s well known that plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. And recent research has shown that micro-organisms in the potting soil of a potted plant remove benzene from the air, and some plant species also contribute to removing benzene.

Houseplants in your living and working environment will also help you feel more calm and creative. To efficiently and naturally help clean the air in your home or office, NASA researchers suggest that you have at least one plant per 100 square feet of space.

Furniture? Nah. Buy the houseplant!