Therapeutic Potentials of Plants for Mental Wellbeing

Mental health is the core foundation of well-being, efficacy and cognition in any individual. According to a recent report by World Health Organization (WHO), more than 1.1 billion people, globally, are victims of various mental health disorders like stress, depression and anxiety. In India, nearly 150 million people are in need of active mental health care and support. To combat this pressing problem, ‘Ecotherapy’ or ‘Green Therapy’ has become an emerging trend nowadays which encompasses various nature-based activities to improve mental and overall health. Among these, ‘Horticulture Therapy’ or ‘Therapeutic Gardening’ is one such approach which harnesses the healing power of plants to address a wide array of mental, emotional and psychological health issues. This involves active engagement of an individual in activities like gardening & nurturing plants and maintaining green spaces. Another green healing practice rejuvenating human-plant interconnection is ‘Forest Bathing’, which refers to the immersion of a person in a forest environ to foster well-being and greater life satisfactions. It has been evidenced that calming effects of plants on the body and mind of a person reduce stress level by lowering the production of stress hormone, Cortisol. Interacting with plants also triggers production of Endorphin, the ‘feel-good’ hormone, increasing the feeling of happiness, positivity and mindfulness, thereby significantly reducing the symptoms of anxiety, stress and depression. Another therapeutic attribute of plants relates to use of plant essential oils in treating various mental health conditions. The therapy, popularly known as ‘Aromatherapy’ offers a natural and safer way to enhance mental wellbeing by lowering depression, elevating mood and improving sleep quality. Furthermore, the therapeutic potential of phytomedicines and other plant derived compounds have been found beneficial in promoting neurological health and alleviating symptoms associated to various psychological and neurogenerative disorders.