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Melinda Myers
Nationally known gardening expert, TV/Radio host, author & columnist with over 30 years of horticulture experience and tons of gardening information to share! www.melindamyers.comMelinda's Garden Moment videos will help you create that beautiful landscape you’ve always wanted. Each week throughout the growing season, a new gardening video will be added right here, so be sure to stop back. You can also watch Melinda’s Garden Moments on your local network TV station affiliate.
Evergreen trees, forest bathing, anti-inflammatories, fragrance and pest deterrence have one thing in common – terpenes.
The distinct fragrance of evergreens is thanks to the terpenes in the plant. It is often distilled and made into an essential oil pinene. The perceived health benefits are currently being researched with some positive findings.
Forest bathing is a long-time practice of walking mindfully through a forest. It was used to boost emotions and reduce stress. The emotional and mental benefits of this practice have helped it spread around the world. A recent study published in the Journal of Toxicological Research found forest bathing in a terpene-rich environment has human health benefits as well.
Terpene also provides plants with protection. When a pine is injured the terpene rich resin oozes out, helping repel insects and prevent fungal infections.
A bit more information: Researchers found terpene has potential anti-inflammatory, anti-tumorigenic and neuroprotective impacts on human health. And researchers in the United Kingdom are investigating ways to utilize terpenes as a petroleum substitute.