RESEARCH

Horticultural Therapy for Stress Reduction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Horticultural therapy (HT) shows promise for stress reduction, particularly for psychological indicators, according to a systematic review and meta-analysis of 31 studies.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Dementia/Traumatic & Acquired Brain Injuries, Older Adults/Seniors, Children/Youth

Setting or Context: Assisted Living/Long-Term Care Homes, Schools/Educational Settings

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Physical Health, Increased Social Engagement & Skills, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Improved Cognitive Function

Allied Profession Intersections: Physical Therapy, Recreational Therapy, Occupational Therapy

Type of Activity: Indoor Plant Care, Outdoor Gardening

Evidence Type: Meta-Analyses/Systematic Reviews

Measurement and Evaluation: Program Effectiveness

Access: Free

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Summary

The effectiveness of horticultural therapy (HT) in reducing stress is analyzed in this systematic review. 31 studies were examined focusing on both psychological and physiological indicators of stress. Results showed that HT significantly improved psychological indicators of stress compared to control groups, but had insignificant effects on physiological indicators. Subgroup analysis revealed that the stress-reducing effects of HT were related to the population characteristics and were most effective in indoor and virtual settings, with a total duration of 100–500 minutes showing better results. The authors proposed a theoretical framework based on “Participants-Settings-Interventions” to guide future HT activities for stress reduction.

Link

Lu, S., Liu, J., Xu, M., & Xu, F. (2023). Horticultural therapy for stress reduction: A systematic review and meta-analysis [Systematic Review]. Frontiers in Psychology, 14.

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