Nature is everything, and us humans, are just a part of it.
Through its many elements, perhaps our most powerful symbolisms that represent nature, are what we term ‘green space’ (defined as naturally planted open land, with trees) 1, and plants. The benefits of human interaction with the natural world., is perhaps generally accepted., and for many of us we can probably fathom that this is reasonably based on…, well., of course breathing less car fumes or pollutants will be more beneficial to our health. Or maybe that throwing solitary pebbles [almost romantically] into a creek when stressed out will definitely help you to see things clearer.
We may even apply the physical dimension to these widely accepted knowledges., and reason that it will probably have taken 349 more steps to get out in the open there., and therefore count towards our daily exercise, and so eventually help with triggering endorphins. It’s not that all these are wrong., contrarily they are absolutely generally correct.
However., actually these understated little gems of knowledge may just be all we need to create some very positive and sturdy frameworks, for a [much needed?] enhanced health, and well-being.
Nature therapy in its many forms, is by no means a new concept (have I mentioned this before…?), and there have been various studies and theories through the years that have informed us of this health-beneficial interaction.
The Biophilia Hypothesis 2, 3, suggests that humans have a natural tendency to affiliate toward living things, and to nature. This view suggests that this genetic and biological drive to interact with other forms of life such as plants, in many views, traces back from our evolutionary association to reliance on harvest for supply of food, security, and ultimately survival.
But biophilia literally translates as ‘love of life’, and hints toward a general acceptance of the benefits of nature to humans, and acknowledges that actual or perceived detachment or distance from the natural world, due to urbanisation, or other factors, may be associated with negative effects on our well-being.
Since 1982, there has been recognised effect termed Shinrin-yoku (bathing in the forest atmosphere) regarded as a natural preventative medicine that brings about improvements in terms of human physical as well as mental health, as form of therapeutics 4. This has partly been postulated from study findings of physiological and biochemical effects such as reduced blood cortisol and salivary amylase concentrations., and increased immune functions 5.
Furthermore, earlier studies show that blood glucose levels in diabetic patients decrease when they walk in a forest for 3 or 6 km 6. There are a range of suggested plausible explanations for these effects., such as the emission of terpene components such as phytoncide from trees.
Separately, an improved mood and stress-reducing response to physically entering the natural environment [eg landscape] rather than viewing it, described by Cumes as ‘wilderness rapture’, may induce feelings of self-awareness, a connection to nature, feelings of wonder and awe, and appreciation of others that can enhance positive feelings of renewal and vigor 7.
This is supported by an abundance of clinical studies that show that people are in fact happier when they engage in greener environments, compared to those who are more urbanised 8.
So., whilst this appears to be very useful information., and perhaps apply to those fortunate enough to have access to these green spaces., or readily available physical opportunities to be inspired and revitalised by the natural wonders and surroundings., can this apply to everyone, to the urbanists., or city workers and perhaps those that are office-based, or confined to prolonged or long term indoor conditions.
For want of some cliché hospital studies, it is incredibly shown however, that presence of plants within patients’ rooms post-surgery, has been found to improve recovery times and reduce administration of painkillers indicating improved general pain levels, reduce fatigue and anxiety, and even reduced the duration of the hospitalisation. Other research has also shown that participants both tending to… and exposed to indoor plants, had greater EEG α waves (conducive with relaxation), and lowered pulse rate, and blood pressure 9, 10.
Studies relate to Sick Building Syndrome., a medical condition in which people suffer from acute health-symptoms of illness such as migraines and fatigue, or feeling unwell for no identifiable reason, directly relating to time spent in a building 11.
Perhaps we may consider., the awareness of our environmental exposure, as our first and foremost form of natural medicine.
So., we’re not going to go out and move to a secluded spot in the countryside (probably) anytime soon., neither are we going to move the office furniture over to the [creek] from 9-5pm everyday.
Biomimicry or biomimetics is examining nature, its processes and elements to take inspiration from in order to solve human problems 12. So, now we consider, is there a way to incorporate all those benefits of bonding with the natural environment., into our own situation and environment… if not lifestyle. This is of particular value when we are feeling fatigued, stressed… or when we’re just too darn busy to consider whether we even feel any of these things anymore.
However, it is also a beautiful prospect for preventative medicine, as we are subtly reminded of nature’s main messages of needs for nourishment and nurturing.
We seem to instinctively know to appreciate the visualisation of flowers almost of ubiquitous symbols of beauty, and may even decorate our walls to create a sanctuary of comfort or enjoyment, with a fragment of a scenic view, knowing that ultimately it will bring that concept of the natural world into main focus.
A note for those of you that I will meet in my herbal clinic, those that may or may not have tried herbal or other treatments before. As part of the herbal treatment, once you have booked your consultation., I ask you to do one thing toward your first herbal treatment journey…, gardening, a walk or seat in a park if you like. But, if possible, I would like this to be bringing a plant into your home. You may choose to research which are most appropriate, (Snake Plants or Aloe is a frequent low maintenance option, with many health benefits and low allergy risks 13, 14) or be intuitive., even just go easy and grab any one off the shelf next time you are able to. Choose a maintenance level that you can realistically cope with, I’m not suggesting that you get in to Greensleeves or foster parenting. If you are not able to do this, then even a picture in or around your home.
The point of this, is only to be the first step in acknowledging and claiming your relationship with nature., in whatever form that will take thereafter. That is the most effective foundation, that plant medicine can bring in for you and for your health before we start at any level, and one that in many ways., each of us has at our availability.
Reference
1. Centers for Disease Control Public Health Terms for Planners & Planning Terms for Public Health Professionals. (2013). Online: https://www.cdc.gov/healthyplaces/terminology.htm.
2. Kellert, S. R. & Wilson, E. O. (1993). The Biophilia Hypothesis. Washington, DC: Island Press.
3. Barbiero, G. & Berto, R. (2021) Biophilia as Evolutionary Adaptation: An Onto- and Phylogenetic Framework for Biophilic Design. Front Psychol. Jul 21;12:700709.
4. Park, B. J., Tsunetsugu, Y., Kasetani, T., Hirano, H., Kagawa, T., Sato, M., et al. (2007) Physiological effects of Shinrin-yoku (taking in the atmosphere of the forest): using salivary cortisol and cerebral activity as indicators. J Physiol Anthropol. 2007;26(2):123–8.
5. Park, B. J, Tsunetsugu, Y., Kasetani, T., Kagawa, T., Miyazaki, Y. (2010) The physiological effects of Shinrin-yoku (taking in the forest atmosphere or forest bathing): evidence from field experiments in 24 forests across Japan. Environ Health Prev Med. 2010 Jan;15(1):18-26.
6. Ohtsuka, Y., Yabunaka, N. & Takayama, S. (1998) Shinrin-yoku (forest-air bathing and walking) effectively decreases blood glucose levels in diabetic patients. Int J Biometeorol. 1998;41:125–7.
7. Cumes, D. (1998) Nature as medicine, the healing power of the wilderness. Alternative Therapies. 1998; 4: 79-86.
8. MacKerron, G., & Mourato, S. (2013) Happiness is greater in natural environments. Global Environmental Change, 23 (5). pp. 992-1000. ISSN 0959-3780.
9.Fazio, R.H. & Cooper, J. (1983) Arousal in the dissonance process. Cited in: Cacioppo, J. T., Petty, R. E., eds. Social Psychophysiology: A Sourcebook. Guilford; New York, NY, USA. pp. 122–152.
10. Deshun, Z. (2023) Promoting adult health: the neurophysiological benefits of watering plants and engaging in mental tasks within designed environments. BMC Psychol 11, 310.
11. World Health Organisation (WHO). (1982) Indoor air pollutants: exposure and health effects. https://www.aivc.org/sites/default/files/airbase_1609.pdf .
12. Lehn, J.M., Benyus, J. (2012) Bioinspiration and biomimicry in Chemistry: Reverse-Engineering Nature. John Wiley & Sons.
13. Sánchez, M., González-Burgos, E., Iglesias, I., & Gómez-Serranillos, M. P. (2020) Pharmacological Update Properties of Aloe Vera and its Major Active Constituents. Molecules 2020, 25, 1324.
14. Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) (2024) Sansevieria. Online: https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/sansevieria, Accessed: 2nd June 2024.
Originally published: 17/07/2024
This article was recently reviewed by author for accuracy and updated on 2nd October, 2026 to include the latest information and taxonomy.
Apothēcary of Botanical Medicine
South Westminster Centre For Health, 82 Vincent Square, London SW1P 2PF
07873 268646
