Horticultural therapy: a precious opportunity

Alessandra Castelliti

From the beginning the contact with nature and growing vegetables has not only been a source of income but also a moment of regeneration. Being in contact with nature, growing vegetables, taking care of plants and picking fruit following the rhythm of the seasons help human beings to keep the five senses (sight, smell, touch,taste and hearing) active, can help strengthen muscles and improve coordination.

Recent scientific studies have shown that interaction with plants and passive appreciation of nature have emotional benefits on depressed, anxious and ill people. “Horticultural therapy is referred to as using the benefits of horticulture for people with any impairment, disability and/or handicap; who need any medical and/or welfare involvement in order to improve their physical and/or mental conditions, including rehabilitation, promoting physical and/or mental growth, and enhancing quality of life (Matsuo 1998).

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