Those of us who enjoy gardening feel a certian relaxation and sense of well-being while plying our craft.
Recently, scientists have discovered a bacterium that lives in garden soil that can improve the symptoms of depression as effectively as anti-depressant drugs.
The findings were published in the medical journal Neuroscience. For an easy to read article on this story click here.
Somehow, these bacteria activate our brain cells to produce a chemical known as serotonin. A lack of serotonin in our systems is thought to be a cause of depression as well as anxiety, aggresssion, IBS and a number of other disorders.
Maybe there is something to the idea that past generations had fewer cases of mental health issues. After all, at one time, most of the population lived on farms and worked the soil.
It’s also said that people in poorer countries seem to be more contented and at peace. Could this be due to their close ties to the soil?
All this confims what gardeners already know…gardening is healthy for mind, body and spirit. We now have scientific proof! (as if we really needed it).
Bob
very interesting! i wonder how long the effects last once the bacteria is on your skin. my personal favorite serotonin booster is chocolate, but this runs a close second!
Comment by vanessa — May 9, 2007 @ 5:00 am
Ooooh! Chocolate is too? That is good news! I like chocolate a lot… but Judy REALLY loves chocolate!!
Comment by Bob — May 9, 2007 @ 2:56 pm
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