RESEARCH

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

Utilizing an adapted evaluation method, the six urban sensory gardens featuring herbs were found to have a medium therapeutic potential, with scores ranging from 46% to 66%. In the survey, 62 out of 73 respondents expressed a preference for using harvested stormwater and rainwater for garden irrigation, highlighting public awareness of water scarcity and support for ecological solutions.

Population Groups: Older Adults/Seniors, Children/Youth, General Population

Setting or Context: Schools/Educational Settings, Rehabilitation Centers, Urban vs. Rural Settings, Public/Botanical Gardens

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Improved Stress Management, Improved Physical Health

Allied Profession Intersections: Landscape Design

Type of Activity: Sensory Stimulation, Outdoor Gardening, Edible Plant Gardening

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Observational Research, Qualitative Research, Quantitative Research

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

Access: Free

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Summary

This study investigates urban sensory gardens featuring aromatic herbs, exploring their design and therapeutic potential for city residents, particularly in the context of climate change and the memory-dependent impact of smell. The paper positions these gardens as intentionally designed components of urban public greenery aimed at stimulating senses to promote well-being, restore internal balance, and reduce stress. It highlights the significance of aromatic herbs, traditionally valued and often originating from warmer climates, noting that their use and importance may be influenced by contemporary climate change effects like rising temperatures. The research underscores the growing scientific interest in nature contact and how specific scents, especially from herbs, can profoundly evoke positive personal memories, contributing to improved mood and well-being.

The study design involved analyzing the plant composition of six publicly accessible urban gardens in Poland known for their aromatic herbs, focusing on the presence and winter survival of temperature-sensitive species. A parallel survey was conducted among 73 residents of Kraków to explore their perception of various herb smells and the positive, memory-dependent associations these scents evoked. Finally, the therapeutic potential of the selected gardens was evaluated using an adapted attribute-based method that considered functional design, sensory stimulation, placemaking, and sustainability criteria, including water management.

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), 760

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