Plant Therapy: What Is It, And How Can It Benefit You?
For thousands of years, plants have been used worldwide in numerous ways for their healing properties. Studies into the physical benefits of plants have shown that herbal remedies are more effective than placebos when treating physical illnesses like inflammatory bowel disease and ulcerative colitis. Plant-based natural products have also been studied for use in cancer therapy because of their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
An overview of plant therapy
As plants can heal the body naturally and may involve fewer side effects than other possible treatment options, many providers also use them for mental health treatment. There are many ways that people can use the power of plants to ease symptoms of mental illness, including anxiety and depression. Plant therapy can be used as a natural alternative to other treatments in minor cases or complement other treatments. Used as a coping mechanism, plant therapy can also assist with long-term success, recovery, and well-being for many clients.
Different types of plant therapy
There are many ways that plants can be used therapeutically to improve your mental health. The proper method for you can depend on your interests, personality, and treatment goals. Some of the primary ways that plants can be used to boost your mood or address symptoms of concerns like anxiety and depression may include the following:
- Essential oils
- Gardening or taking care of plants
- Spending time in nature
- Eating a healthy diet of plant-based foods
- Volunteering for a nursery or greenhouse
- Visiting a curated therapeutic garden
How to use plants to improve mental health
The above strategies can be used individually or in combination with other forms of therapy as part of a healthy lifestyle. You can take them up on your own or do more research and seek guidance for maximum benefit. For example, you can start a garden or participate in a horticultural therapy program for additional guidance.
Plant therapy’s mental health benefits
The different forms of plant therapy provide benefits to the mind and body. Let’s get to know some of the helpful and positive effects that plant therapy offers.
Essential oils for improved mood and stress relief
Aromatherapy is a coping mechanism often used to improve mood, mental health, or mental state. Many individuals use essential oils for this practice, made from natural elements like plants, leaves, stems, seeds, or extractions. Essential oils are an alternative treatment option and may not work for everyone. In addition, these oils are not a replacement for medicine, therapy, or advice from a licensed medical professional like a psychiatrist. Although they may be helpful in addition to treatment or as a temporary coping mechanism, essential oils do not "cure" mental illness.
Note that essential oils contain plant elements, so you may have an allergic reaction. If you experience symptoms of allergies while using an oil, stop use and talk to a medical professional.
Essential oils that may be recommended for symptoms of depression can include the following:
- Jasmine
- Sandalwood
- Ylang-ylang
- Chamomile
- Geranium
Essential oils that may be recommended for treating symptoms of anxiety include the following:
- Rose
- Vetiver
- Frankincense
- Bergamot
- Lavender
Essential oils can be used on their own or blended and used in different combinations for different purposes. They can also be used in many formats. For example, you can diffuse essential oils, use them in a bath, or apply them topically with a roll-on or during a message.
A few pilot studies have shown the effects of aromatherapy on mental health. One study by Conrad, P. and Adams, C. (2012) suggested "positive findings with minimal risk for using aromatherapy as a complementary therapy in both anxiety and depression scales with post-partum women." Another pilot study on aromatherapy massage by Edge, J. (2003) showcased improvements in mood, anxiety scores, and relaxation in six out of eight participants. Future studies may be needed to understand the impact of these oils fully.
Taking care of plants as a therapeutic activity
Gardening is a form of plant therapy sometimes used in inpatient mental health centers, rehabilitation, or nursing homes. This plant therapy can complement talk therapy and possibly other treatment options, boosting mental health outcomes.
The Horticultural Therapy Institute notes some of the best types of plants to use in therapeutic gardens (according to students and alums), including the following:
- Fragrant Plants: Rose, gardenia, lilac, lemon balm, pine
- Edible Plants: Fruits, vegetables, herbs
- Seasonal Annuals: Pansies, tulips, hyacinth
Like with essential oils, research the safety and toxicity of plants you are using, especially if you have pets or plan to consume any plants. Some plants are toxic to cats and dogs, so be wary of keeping those plants away from your pets.
At its root, gardening can be a relaxing and rhythmic activity that can distract individuals from mental health challenges, allowing them to work toward a goal with visible progress and care for a living plant. Working in nature can release "happy chemicals" in the brain and make you feel more present. Some other benefits of gardening include improved self-esteem and a sense of nurturing and responsibility. Gardening could also foster a connection to the earth and the world around you.
Many forms of plant therapy include gardening centers and therapeutic gardens. A therapist may accompany clients to this type of treatment, talking to them as they garden or teaching them new gardening techniques.
The mental health benefits of spending time in nature
Staying in the house all the time or spending most of your time indoors or in a city can be challenging. Many studies and resources show that being in nature benefits mental health. Artificial lighting and manufactured settings can adversely impact an individual's physical and psychological health. Spending time in nature can allow you to take a break from these settings and connect with yourself and the world around you.
If gardening doesn't sound therapeutic, you might enjoy time in nature. According to a study by Barton and Pretty (2010), green exercise (activity in the presence of nature) benefits mood and self-esteem, even in short durations. Evidence suggests that those effects are enhanced when this physical activity occurs near water.
Next time you're feeling down or anxious, try one of the following activities for up to 30 minutes, and see how you feel afterward:
- Head to the nearest park or nature path and walk, hike, or bike
- Do yoga or exercise outside at the beach or by a river or another body of water
- Find a peaceful place outside in nature to lie down or sit on the grass
- Sit on a bench in a park and read a book
- Swim in a pond, lake, or river
- Go kayaking, water-boarding, tubing, or boating on a body of water near you
- Hike up a hill or mountain
- Drive into the forest and look at the trees
- Do art in the forest
If you love nature and are open to more prolonged exposure, grab some friends or family and go on a weekend camping trip. Spending time in nature regularly can help you feel calmer and more connected, put you in a better mood, and help you feel energized for the day ahead.
The positive effects of plant-based nutritional plans
Studies show that a healthy diet can also impact mental health. Many individuals benefit from plants by eating them, which are healthy for your body. Paying attention to your diet and eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can positively impact your mood and energy.
A study by Jacka, F.N., et al. (2011) found that those with quality diets were less likely to experience depression. In contrast, a higher intake of processed and unhealthy foods was associated with increased anxiety. Similarly, people on plant-based diets may experience fewer symptoms of depression, stress, anxiety, and mood disturbances. Although you don't have to be a vegetarian or vegan to achieve positive effects from a plant-based diet, many people also choose this option.
Exploring complementary therapies with a mental health professional
When many individuals think of plant therapy, they might consider essential oils as the only option. However, there are several ways that plants can be used therapeutically to improve mental well-being, including horticulture therapy, spending time in nature, and eating healthy plants like vegetables. Many therapists use studies about plants to aid in their clients' treatment plans, and some use methods like gardening sessions to assist individuals.
Although you can use plants in conjunction with treatment, if you're experiencing mental illness or serious concerns, you might also benefit from therapy with a licensed professional. If you're having trouble finding a therapist, online services like Regain for couples and BetterHelp for individuals can offer an alternative to costly in-person counseling.
Effectiveness of online therapy
You can match with a therapist unique to your preferences through an online platform, which you may set when you first sign up. Your therapist may also be able to point you toward any plant-based coping mechanisms you're interested in trying in your area. One study found that those experiencing bipolar disorder found online therapy 95% effective in reducing symptom severity. Many sources showcase that internet-based counseling is as effective as in-person methods.
Takeaway
Alongside therapy, plant therapy can help clients address symptoms and self-soothe. If you're experiencing stress or looking for a coping mechanism involving nature, consider essential oils, gardening, or spending time in a natural setting to relax and connect with your surroundings. You can also contact a therapist for further guidance on this topic.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Below are several frequently asked questions on the topic of plant therapy.
What is plant therapy, and can it improve mental health?
Plant therapy is also known as horticultural therapy. This type of plant therapy often involves gardening or plant-based activities under a trained horticultural therapist's supervision.
Plant therapy offers clients the chance to improve their mental health through hands-on activities like caring for plants, repotting baby plants, or maintaining a greenhouse environment. According to the American Horticultural Therapy Association (AHTA) website, there are three principles of plant therapy:
A person's quality of life can be improved through their relationship with plants.
Humans are naturally interested in nature.
Colorful and fresh plants make people feel positive.
Look for a horticulture therapy center in your area to learn more about this treatment method.
Is plant therapy a legitimate treatment?
People use plants to ease symptoms of mental illness, such as depression, or rely on plant therapy to get through a stressful day. It is an actual technique and can involve many coping strategies.
Plant therapy often allows clients to find natural solutions to their problems. For instance, people can shop for a plant that reduces their anxiety or offers a sense of responsibility. A plant might produce a pleasant aroma or make you feel more at peace or in touch with nature. Horticulture therapy is one of the most official plant therapy types, allowing individuals to care for a garden or work with plants alongside a licensed or trained professional.
What are plant therapy’s mental health benefits?
People often feel happier when using essential oils or other plant therapy methods. A survey conducted at four San Francisco Bay Area hospitals showed that nearly 80% of patients felt more relaxed after spending time in a garden.
Individuals can also increase the frequency of happy moments by gardening or caring for plants. Gardening can remind many clients of their connection to nature and give them responsibility over a living plant. When a person takes care of a plant and watches it grow, they may relate to the plant's growth and feel accomplished. As the plant grows and matures, so does the person.
People may feel proud of themselves after seeing their gardening efforts bear fruit. They can enjoy the vegetables they grew or feel happy at the sight of colorful flowers, knowing their effort made the growth possible. In this way, plant therapy offers clients the gift of creating something of their own and reaping the benefits.
Can fake plants influence mental health?
Fake plants can affect a person's mental health as much as natural plants and plant therapy essential oils can. Research demonstrates that artificial plants can offer a mood boost, though they may not be as effective as wild plants. Still, fake plants require little maintenance and allow people to decorate their living space with greenery, which may cause a sense of being in nature at home.
What plant is beneficial for depression?
Plant therapy involves picking a plant that can best help you with your mental health concerns. Aloe vera is a plant that may benefit you as it purifies the air and removes harmful chemicals from your surroundings. Furthermore, the plant's relaxing aroma may help those living with depression focus on the present moment and be grateful for what they have in their lives. Aloe vera is considered one of the easiest to maintain.
Another flower for plant therapy is jasmine. Jasmine's relaxing aroma can be scented far away, and many people plant this flower in their gardens. Furthermore, experts have found that jasmine is a valuable substitute for a sleeping or mood enhancer. The plant is known for relieving anxiety, so some people may place the flower or an essential oil diffuser with jasmine oil near their bed for maximum effect.
One other flower for plant therapy is lavender. Lavender can provide various mental health benefits for anxiety and depression. The essential oils from lavender can help individuals relax and sleep, alleviate headaches, and may reduce irritation from bug bites.
What are the benefits of putting plants in your bedroom?
Putting plants in your bedroom can be beneficial because they may help improve sleep and reduce anxiety. The aroma from certain flowers can alleviate stress, while plant therapy essential oils can provide other valuable benefits.
To get the most out of flowers or plants in your bedroom, ensure you care for them properly. You can maintain them in the following ways:
Interact with your plants regularly
Incorporate your plants into a daily meditation practice
Spend time with your plants
Water your plants as needed, and research their care needs
Ensure sunlight for plants that require it
What plant helps you sleep?
Specific types of plants may aid in sleeping problems, improve relaxation levels, and eliminate chemicals in the air.
Valerian plant essential oils or flowers can help people handle insomnia and can be used to reduce anxiety levels. The flower's oils have also been studied for their hypnotic effects. By using valerian plant therapy essential oils, one may enhance one's sense of relaxation.
In addition, the scent of essential oils from Gardenia flowers can induce a sedative effect that may help you sleep. Using the oils of a gardenia flower, you can begin to create a relaxing and comforting atmosphere to unwind.
What essential oils help with anxiety?
The following essential oils may relieve symptoms of anxiety:
Basil
Chamomile
English ivy
Chrysanthemum
Peppermint
How do I become a horticultural therapist?
To become a horticultural therapist to offer plant therapy, you'll need a Bachelor's degree in horticulture with a concentration or minor in horticultural therapy. To be registered with the American Horticultural Therapy Association, you must have taken coursework related to plant therapy and must have at least 480 hours of internship.
The internship is an integral part of horticultural therapy education. Students can further develop their plant therapy knowledge while supervised by a registered horticultural therapist. After your supervised work and graduation from higher education, you can apply to be a registered horticultural therapist.
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