How to Purify Water to Drink with Plants

Access to clean drinking water is a fundamental human right. However, in many parts of the world, finding safe and potable water can be a challenge. While there are several methods for purifying water, using plants is one of the most natural and effective ways. In this article, we will explore how to purify water to drink with plants.

Identify the Right Plants

The first step in purifying water with plants is to identify the appropriate ones. Some plants are more effective in removing impurities from water than others. Some of the best plants for purifying water include:

Bamboo

Moringa Oleifera

Cattails

Water Hyacinths

Lemongrass

Aloe Vera

These plants can remove contaminants from water, including bacteria, viruses, and heavy metals.

Prepare the Plants

Once you have identified the right plants, you need to prepare them for use in purifying water. The preparation process will vary depending on the plant you are using. For example, with bamboo, you will need to cut it into small pieces and char them in a fire to make activated charcoal.

With Moringa Oleifera, you can dry the seeds and crush them into a powder that you can use to purify water. Cattails can be used as they are, while water hyacinths need to be boiled before use. Lemongrass and aloe vera can be used fresh or dried.

Use the Plants to Purify Water

Once you have prepared the plants, you can use them to purify water. There are several ways to do this, including:

Boiling Water with Plants

You can add the prepared plants to a pot of water and then boil the water. Allow the water to cool before drinking.

Making Tea with Plants

You can steep the prepared plants in hot water to make tea. Allow the tea to cool before drinking.

Mixing Plants with Water

You can crush the prepared plants and mix them with water. Allow the mixture to sit for several hours before straining it to remove any solids.

Conclusion

Using plants to purify water is an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to access clean drinking water. With the right plants and preparation techniques, you can remove harmful contaminants from water and enjoy safe and clean drinking water. However, it's important to note that using plants for water purification may not remove all contaminants, so it's best to use this method alongside other water purification methods when necessary.