It turns out getting in the garden and getting dirty is a natural antidepressant due to unique microbes in healthy organic soil. Working and playing in soil can actually make you happier and healthier.
What gardeners and farmers have talked about for millennia is now verifiable by science. Feeling like your garden or farm is your happy place is no coincidence! This is would also explain one of the many reasons children love exploring and playing in it, as well.
The way it works is the “happy” microbes in soil cause cytokine levels to rise, which leads to the production of more serotonin. This bacterium is found in healthy soil and when humans are exposed to it, the microbe stimulates serotonin production. Serotonin makes us feel relaxed and happier.
Conversely, lack of serotonin has been linked to depression, anxiety, OCD, and bipolar disorders. Scientists have found that cognitive ability, lower stress, and better concentration were notable benefits that lasted 3 weeks time.
Mycobacterium antidepressant microbes in soil have been investigated for improving cognitive function, Crohn’s disease, and even rheumatoid arthritis.
So while the physical act of gardening may reduce stress and lift moods in and of itself, it is fascinating to know there is some science to add to the happy gardener sentiment.
With no adverse health effects caused by mycobacterium vaccae and so much to gain, you might as well grow something. Make it a new activity with your children! And as a bonus you’ll produce fresh, local food, or at least something pretty to smell and look at if flowers and ornamentals are your thing. Bees and other pollinators will appreciate it too!
So, let’s get digging and playing in the soil of the Earth! Let’s get our children involved, as well!
Sources:
“Identification of an Immune-Responsive Mesolimbocortical Serotonergic System: Potential Role in Regulation of Emotional Behavior,” by Christopher Lowry et al., published online on March 28, 2007 in Neuroscience.
Mind & Brain/Depression and Happiness – Raw Data “Is Dirt the New Prozac?” by Josie Glausiusz, Discover Magazine, July 2007 Issue.
https://www.healthydirections.com/articles/general-health/soil-based-probiotics-benefits by Dr. Drew Sinatra, this article has many resources, as well.
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