Anti-depressant Soil Microbe Mycobacterium vaccae

If you’re a gardener you know you feel better when you dig, plant and even weed the garden. If you’re not, trust me, there’s research to back up the mood enhancing benefits of soil and gardening.

Scientists made a positive connection between soil microbes and human health, including our emotional and mental state. They found an antidepressant microbe in the soil, Mycobacterium vaccae, that increased cognitive ability, lowered stress and improved concentration.

Scientists believe this soil bacterium activates immune cells that impact the production of serotonin, often referred to as the “happy molecule”. Further research is investigating the potential of using these non-addicting antidepressant soil microbes for treating a variety of disorders and diseases.

If you’re worried about contaminates in your soil, invest in organic potting and planting mixes – then dig in.

A bit more information: Bring the benefits of gardening in the soil to your patio, deck or front steps with container gardens. And make sure the youngsters in your life also benefit from gardening. Help them create fairy gardens in a pot, plant a colorful rainbow garden or grow a container of grass for their action heroes or dolls to play upon.