Energy efficient homes could be putting our health at risk. A wide variety of toxic chemicals can build up in tightly sealed indoor environments and affect your health, research shows.

But you can take steps to minimize the chemicals in your home by simply bringing green plants indoors. A NASA study revealed that certain houseplants can bring a breath of fresh air to indoor environments and detoxify our homes without the expense of pricey — and noisy — air purifiers on the market.

Dr. Bill Wolverton, scientist and author of “How to Grow Fresh Air” has confirmed in multiple studies that houseplants can purify and revitalize the air.

Dr. Mehmet Oz has also recommended the use of interior plants for their toxin-filtering abilities in his best-selling book “You, The Owner’s Manual.”

“Plants clean the air in our homes, allowing us to breathe easier,” Anita S. Neal, district extension supervisor at the University of Florida and an expert on the power of plants tells Newsmax Health.

“They have the ability to take impurities out of the air through respiration. They also pull air down through the soil, where the roots can absorb impurities. We use many chemicals in our homes from cleaners to products made from harsh ingredients.

“One plant per 500 square feet will improve the air quality within your home. Almost all plants utilize photosynthesis to produce their food and a few are really good at cleaning the air. NASA’s study helped identify the best choices.”

Here are the top six:

1. Boston Fern. These attractive plants remove more formaldehyde than any other plant. They are also highly efficient at removing other indoor air pollutants, such as benzene and xylene — components of gasoline exhaust that can migrate indoors if you have an attached garage. They can be finicky so make sure you mist or water them daily and feed seasonally.

2. Peace Lily. The NASA study revealed that these blooming indoor plants are efficient in absorbing benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and more. The peace lily thrives in both low and bright light. Keep the soil moist and feed monthly during the spring and summer months with an all-purpose liquid fertilizer. Keep the foliage dust-free for maximum cleaning efficiency.

3. Dracaena. These diverse houseplants are extremely attractive in the home and help eliminate formaldehyde, xylene, benzene, toluene, and trichloroethylene. Keep the soil damp but not soggy. Feed this plant monthly during spring and summer.

4. Golden Pothos. This virtually indestructible plant is considered to be one of the most effective indoor purifiers of the plant world. You can hang it in a basket or beside a tall indoor tree — like the Dracaena corn plant — to cascade over the pot’s edge.

They help remove formaldehyde, xylene, toluene, benzene, carbon monoxide, and more. These hearty plants grow in any light situation except direct sunlight. Water when the soil becomes dry to the touch. Trim the long tendrils when the plant becomes too large.

5. English Ivy. This evergreen is a climbing plant that adapts well to indoor conditions. It can be easily grown as a houseplant or in hanging baskets and thrives in low-light conditions. English Ivy is recommended for removing allergens such as mold and bacteria.

The green-leaved varieties will grow in bright indirect light and low-light situations. The pale, variegated forms need brighter, indirect sun to thrive. Water generously during the growing period and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly.

6. Areca Palm. This is a small cluster-forming palm from Madagascar. It’s a graceful addition to any home and according to the Associated Landscape Contractor of America, one of the most efficient air-purifying plants and an excellent home humidifier. It helps eliminate benzene, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, xylene and more. Grow in bright filtered light with shade from the hot sun. Water frequently during the growth period but reduce watering in winter. Fertilize monthly.

A word of warning for pet owners: Some plants are toxic to pets, so be sure to check with your vet about which varieties to avoid, before adding greenery to your home.