RESEARCH

Effect of Gardening Physical Activity on Neuroplasticity and Cognitive Function

This systematic review found potential benefits of gardening for brain health, including increased levels of growth neurotrophic factors crucial for promoting neuroplasticity and improving cognitive function.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Dementia/Traumatic & Acquired Brain Injuries, General Population

Setting or Context: Hospitals/Clinics, Community Gardens, Homes/Private Residences

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Improved Cognitive Function, Increased Social Engagement & Skills, Increased Self-Efficacy

Allied Profession Intersections: Nursing

Type of Activity: Indoor Plant Care, Outdoor Gardening, Edible Plant Gardening, Nature-Based Arts & Crafts, Plant Propagation, Growing Plants from Seed

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Meta-Analyses/Systematic Reviews

Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Mental Health, Metrics for Physical Health, Patient-Reported Outcomes, Standardized Assessment Tools, Program Effectiveness

Access: Free

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Summary

This systematic review, published in June 2024, examined the effects of gardening as a physical activity on neuroplasticity and cognitive function. The study analyzed 23 articles published between January 2010 and December 2022, selected from an initial pool of 3,470 records based on PRISMA recommendations.

The review included studies involving participants aged 18 and older, healthy individuals and those with cognitive impairments or neurodegenerative diseases. Gardening activities encompassed a range of tasks such as seeding, digging, planting, watering, and harvesting. The research focused on outcomes related to cognitive function, expression of growth neurotrophic factors, and psychophysiological indicators. Results suggested that gardening physical activity could benefit brain health by boosting immunity, lowering inflammation, and increasing levels of growth neurotrophic factors like BDNF, VEGF, and PDGF, which are crucial for promoting neuroplasticity and improving cognitive function.