[Intro]
Phytoncides
We’re fightin’ on the same side
[Verse 1]
I see some new growth
And it’s growing on
The greener of both
When shown upon
[Chorus]
The mighty pine
Stands so fine
High into the sky
Prefer conifer
For a natural high
[Bridge]
Phytoncides
We’re fightin’ on the same side
Phytoncides
Biome along for the ride
[Instrumental, Guitar Solo, Drum Fills]
[Verse 2]
The new growth (growing on)
For the scent (I long)
Shinrin-yoku (tree knew)
Good for me (how about you)
[Chorus]
The mighty pine
Stands so fine
High into the sky
Prefer conifer
For a natural high
[Bridge]
Phytoncides
We’re fightin’ on the same side
Phytoncides
Biome along for the ride
[Instrumental, Saxophone Solo, Synthesizers]
[Bridge]
Phytoncides
We’re fightin’ on the same side
Phytoncides
Biome along for the ride
Floating to the other side
Naked, nothing to hide
Ride (ride) (ride)
[Instrumental, Piano, Bass]
[Chorus]
The mighty pine
Stands so fine
High into the sky
Prefer conifer
For a natural high
[Outro]
Phytoncides
We’re fightin’ on the same side
A SCIENCE NOTE
The oils in the air from conifers, known as phytoncides, have numerous health benefits that make forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku) particularly effective. Here’s why these oils are beneficial for health and the biome:
Benefits of Conifer Oils in Forest Bathing
- Boosting Immune Function:
- Phytoncides: These are antimicrobial volatile organic compounds emitted by trees. Studies have shown that exposure to phytoncides can increase the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, which play a crucial role in the immune system by attacking virus-infected cells and tumors .
- Reducing Stress and Improving Mood:
- Stress Reduction: Phytoncides have been found to reduce levels of stress hormones like cortisol. Time spent in forests, inhaling these compounds, can lead to lower stress levels and improved mood .
- Mental Health: Forest bathing has been linked to reduced anxiety, depression, and fatigue. The calming effect of phytoncides on the nervous system can enhance overall mental well-being .
- Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects:
- Inflammation: Phytoncides possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. This is particularly beneficial for people with chronic inflammatory conditions .
- Antioxidants: The antioxidant properties of phytoncides help protect the body from oxidative stress, which is linked to various chronic diseases and aging .
- Improving Cardiovascular Health:
- Heart Health: Exposure to forest environments and phytoncides can lower blood pressure and heart rate, contributing to better cardiovascular health .
- Enhancing Respiratory Function:
- Breathing Easier: The clean, oxygen-rich air in forests, combined with the antimicrobial properties of phytoncides, can improve respiratory function and overall lung health .
Impact on the Biome
- Microbiome Diversity: The diversity of microbes in forest environments can positively influence the human microbiome, enhancing immune function and overall health .
- Environmental Health: Conifer forests play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. The antimicrobial properties of phytoncides also help in controlling pathogen populations, contributing to the health of the forest biome .
References
- Li, Q. (2010). Effect of forest bathing trips on human immune function. Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine.
- Li, Q. (2009). Forest bathing enhances human natural killer activity and expression of anti-cancer proteins. International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology.
- Park, B. J., Tsunetsugu, Y., Kasetani, T., Kagawa, T., & Miyazaki, Y. (2010). The physiological effects of Shinrin-yoku (taking in the forest atmosphere or forest bathing): evidence from field experiments in 24 forests across Japan. Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine.
- Hansen, M. M., Jones, R., & Tocchini, K. (2017). Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) and nature therapy: A state-of-the-art review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
- Song, C., Ikei, H., & Miyazaki, Y. (2016). Physiological effects of nature therapy: A review of the research in Japan. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
- Li, Q. (2018). Effect of forest bathing (shinrin-yoku) on levels of stress hormones, nervous system activity, and stress-related diseases. European Journal of Applied Physiology.
- Ohtsuka, Y., Yabunaka, N., & Takayama, S. (1998). Shinrin-yoku (forest-air bathing and walking) effectively decreases blood glucose levels in diabetic patients. International Journal of Biometeorology.
- Horiuchi, M., Endo, J., Akatsuka, S., & Ohta, M. (2013). Influence of forest walking on blood pressure, profile of mood states, and stress markers from the viewpoint of aging. Journal of Aging and Physical Activity.
- Lee, J., Park, B. J., Tsunetsugu, Y., Ohira, T., Kagawa, T., & Miyazaki, Y. (2011). Effect of forest bathing on physiological and psychological responses in young Japanese male subjects. Public Health.
- Lowry, C. A., et al. (2016). The microbiota, immune function, and mental health: Implications for public health. Current Environmental Health Reports.
- Rajkumar, S., Ma, Y., & Freitas, H. (2013). Potential of siderophore-producing bacteria for improving heavy metal phytoextraction. Trends in Biotechnology.
These points illustrate why the oils from conifer trees are beneficial and how they contribute to the concept of forest bathing, promoting both physical and mental health.