RESEARCH

Urban Sensory Gardens with Aromatic Herbs in the Light of Climate Change: Therapeutic Potential and Memory-Dependent Smell Impact on Human Wellbeing

This study examines the use of aromatic and temperature-sensitive plants in Polish sensory gardens. The therapeutic potential of these gardens, including positive olfactory associations, may be useful for mitigating climate anxiety.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Older Adults/Seniors, General Population

Setting or Context: Public/Botanical Gardens

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Enhanced Emotional Well-being

Allied Profession Intersections: Landscape Design, Forest/Ecotherapy, Climate Psychology/Psychotherapy

Type of Activity: Sensory Stimulation

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies

Measurement and Evaluation: Patient-Reported Outcomes

Research Source: Academic Journals

Access: Free

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Summary

This research article explores the potential of urban sensory gardens with aromatic herbs to improve human well-being in the face of climate change. The study focuses on how these gardens, particularly the impact of plant smells on memory, can provide therapeutic benefits to city residents. Additionally, the role and perception of water in these gardens, including preferred water sources, were examined. Six public urban gardens in Kraków, Poland were selected, and plant material analysis was conducted. A catalogue of aromatic herbs grown in the gardens was created, along with a list of species that struggle or fail to survive Polish winters when planted in the ground. The frequency of temperature-sensitive plants in sensory gardens and the strategies used to help them endure urban Polish winters were also noted.

Secondly, 73 people grouped into three age groups (18-29, 30-59, and 60+) were surveyed. Six questions were asked about the associations respondents had with the aromatic herbs and their thoughts on water feature usage in herbal gardens. The therapeutic potential of the gardens was then analyzed using the Trojanowska method. This method assesses the therapeutic potential of a space based on its attributes, with a higher number of attributes indicating higher therapeutic potential. The attributes are grouped into design stages, including functional program, functional-spatial structure, internal spaces design and architectural form, placemaking, and sustainability requirements. The majority of Kraków residents positively perceived the smells of most aromatic herbs. Lavender and mint were the most associated with positive memories, including home, family, childhood, and summer vacations. Analysis using the Trojanowska method revealed that the analyzed herbal gardens have a medium therapeutic potential and that the inclusion of climate-sensitive plants that are well-liked and familiar to residents can also enhance the health benefits of these gardens.

Link

Krzeptowska-Moszkowicz, I., Moszkowicz, Ł., & Porada, K. (2022). Urban sensory gardens with aromatic herbs in the light of climate change: Therapeutic potential and memory-dependent smell impact on human wellbeing. Land, 11(5).

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