Abstract Title: Additive Benefits of Twice Forest Bathing Trips in Elderly Patients with Chronic Heart Failure. Abstract Source: Biomed Environ Sci. 2018 Feb ;31(2):159-162. PMID: 29606196 Abstract Author(s): Gen Xiang Mao, Yong Bao Cao, Yan Yang, Zhuo Mei Chen, Jian Hua Dong, Sha Sha Chen, Qing Wu, Xiao Ling Lyu, Bing Bing Jia, Jing Yan, Guo Fu Wang Article Affiliation: Gen Xiang Mao Abstract: Chronic heart failure (CHF), a clinical syndrome resulting from the consequences of various cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), is increasingly becoming a global cause of morbidity and mortality. We had earlier demonstrated that a 4-day forest bathing trip can provide an adjunctive therapeutic influence on patients with CHF. To further investigate the duration of the impact and the optimal frequency of forest bathing trips in patients with CHF, we recruited those subjects who had experienced the first forest bathing trip again after 4 weeks and randomly categorized them into two groups, namely, the urban control group (city) and the forest bathing group (forest). After a second 4-day forest bathing trip, we observed a steady decline in the brain natriuretic peptide levels, a biomarker of heart failure, and an attenuated inflammatory response as well as oxidative stress. Thus, this exploratory study demonstrated the additive benefits of twice forest bathing trips in elderly patients with CHF, which could further pave the way for analyzing the effects of such interventions in CVDs. Article Published Date : Jan 31, 2018

Abstract Title: Effects of Walking in Bamboo Forest and City Environments on Brainwave Activity in Young Adults. Abstract Source: Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2018 ;2018:9653857. Epub 2018 Feb 11. PMID: 29785198 Abstract Author(s): Ahmad Hassan, Jiang Tao, Guo Li, Mingyan Jiang, Liu Aii, Jiang Zhihui, Liu Zongfang, Chen Qibing Article Affiliation: Ahmad Hassan Abstract: . In Japan,"Shinrin-yoku"or forest bathing (spending time in forests) is a major practice used for relaxation. However, its effects on promoting human mental health are still under consideration. The objective of this study was to investigate the physiological and psychological relaxation effects of forest walking on adults. Sixty participants (50% males; 50% females) were trained to walk 15-minute predetermined courses in a bamboo forest and a city area (control). The length of the courses was the same to allow comparison of the effects of both environments. Blood pressure and EEG results were measured to assess the physiological responses and the semantic differential method (SDM) and STAI were used to study the psychological responses. Blood pressure was significantly decreased and variation in brain activity was observed in both environments. The results of the two questionnaires indicated that walking in the bamboo forest improves mood and reduces anxiety. Moreover, the mean meditation and attention scores were significantly increased after walking in a bamboo forest. The results of the physiological and psychological measurements indicate the relaxing effects of walking in a bamboo forest on adults. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2017

Abstract Title: Blood pressure-lowering effect of Shinrin-yoku (Forest bathing): a systematic review and meta-analysis. Abstract Source: BMC Complement Altern Med. 2017 Aug 16 ;17(1):409. Epub 2017 Aug 16. PMID: 28814305 Abstract Author(s): Yuki Ideno, Kunihiko Hayashi, Yukina Abe, Kayo Ueda, Hiroyasu Iso, Mitsuhiko Noda, Jung-Su Lee, Shosuke Suzuki Article Affiliation: Yuki Ideno Abstract: BACKGROUND: Shinrin-yoku (experiencing the forest atmosphere or forest bathing) has received increasing attention from the perspective of preventive medicine in recent years. Some studies have reported that the forest environment decreases blood pressure. However, little is known about the possibility of anti-hypertensive applications of Shinrin-yoku. This study aimed to evaluate preventive or therapeutic effects of the forest environment on blood pressure. METHODS: We systematically reviewed the medical literature and performed a meta-analysis.Four electronic databases were systematically searched for the period before May 2016 with language restriction of English and Japanese. The review considered all published, randomized, controlled trials, cohort studies, and comparative studies that evaluated the effects of the forest environment on changes in systolic blood pressure. A subsequent meta-analysis was performed. RESULTS: Twenty trials involving 732 participants were reviewed. Systolic blood pressure of the forest environment was significantly lower than that of the non-forest environment. Additionally, diastolic blood pressure of the forest environment was significantly lower than that of the non-forest environment. CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review shows a significant effect of Shinrin-yoku on reduction of blood pressure. Article Published Date : Aug 15, 2017

Abstract Title: Effects of Short Forest Bathing Program on Autonomic Nervous System Activity and Mood States in Middle-Aged and Elderly Individuals. Abstract Source: Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2017 Aug 9 ;14(8). Epub 2017 Aug 9. PMID: 28792445 Abstract Author(s): Chia-Pin Yu, Chia-Min Lin, Ming-Jer Tsai, Yu-Chieh Tsai, Chun-Yu Chen Article Affiliation: Chia-Pin Yu Abstract: The present study investigated changes in autonomic nervous system activity and emotions after a short (2 h) forest bathing program in the Xitou Nature Education Area (XNEA), Taiwan. One hundred and twenty-eight (60.0± 7.44 years) middle-aged and elderly participants were recruited. Physiological responses, pulse rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate variability (HRV), and psychological indices were measured before and after the program. We observed that pulse rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure were significantly lower after the program, which indicated physiological benefits from stress recovery. The Profile of Mood States negative mood subscale scores of"tension-anxiety","anger-hostility","fatigue-inertia","depression-dejection", and"confusion-bewilderment"were significantly lower, whereas the positive mood subscale score of"vigor-activity"was higher. Furthermore, participants exhibited significantly lower anxiety levels according to the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. However, changes in sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve activity were nonsignificant. Our study determined that the short forest bathing program is a promising therapeutic method for enhancing heart rate and blood pressure functions as well as an effective psychological relaxation strategy for middle-aged and elderly individuals. Article Published Date : Aug 08, 2017

Abstract Title: Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) and Nature Therapy: A State-of-the-Art Review. Abstract Source: Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2017 Jul 28 ;14(8). Epub 2017 Jul 28. PMID: 28788101 Abstract Author(s): Margaret M Hansen, Reo Jones, Kirsten Tocchini Article Affiliation: Margaret M Hansen Abstract: BACKGROUND: Current literature supports the comprehensive health benefits of exposure to nature and green environments on human systems. The aim of this state-of-the-art review is to elucidate empirical research conducted on the physiological and psychological effects of Shinrin-Yoku (or Forest Bathing) in transcontinental Japan and China. Furthermore, we aim to encourage healthcare professionals to conduct longitudinal research in Western cultures regarding the clinically therapeutic effects of Shinrin-Yoku and, for healthcare providers/students to consider practicing Shinrin-Yoku to decrease undue stress and potential burnout. METHODS: A thorough review was conducted to identify research published with an initial open date range and then narrowing the collection to include papers published from 2007 to 2017. Electronic databases (PubMed, PubMed Central, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Scopus) and snowball references were used to cull papers that evaluated the use of Shinrin-Yoku for various populations in diverse settings. RESULTS: From the 127 papers initially culled using the Boolean phrases:"Shinrin-yoku"AND/OR"forest bathing"AND/OR"nature therapy", 64 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in this summary review and then divided into"physiological,""psychological,""sensory metrics"and"frameworks"sub-groups. CONCLUSIONS: Human health benefits associated with the immersion in nature continue to be currently researched. Longitudinal research, conducted worldwide, is needed to produce new evidence of the relationships associated with Shinrin-Yoku and clinical therapeutic effects. Nature therapy as a health-promotion method and potential universal health model is implicated for the reduction of reported modern-day"stress-state"and"technostress.". Article Published Date : Jul 27, 2017

Abstract Title: Terpenes from Forests and Human Health. Abstract Source: Toxicol Res. 2017 Apr ;33(2):97-106. Epub 2017 Apr 15. PMID: 28443180 Abstract Author(s): Kyoung Sang Cho, Young-Ran Lim, Kyungho Lee, Jaeseok Lee, Jang Ho Lee, Im-Soon Lee Article Affiliation: Kyoung Sang Cho Abstract: Forest bathing has beneficial effects on human health via showering of forest aerosols as well as physical relaxation. Terpenes that consist of multiple isoprene units are the largest class of organic compounds produced by various plants, and one of the major components of forest aerosols. Traditionally, terpene-containing plant oil has been used to treat various diseases without knowing the exact functions or the mechanisms of action of the individual bioactive compounds. This review categorizes various terpenes easily obtained from forests according to their anti-inflammatory, anti-tumorigenic, or neuroprotective activities. Moreover, potential action mechanisms of the individual terpenes and their effects on such processes, which are described in various in vivo and in vitro systems, are discussed. In conclusion, the studies that show the biological effectiveness of terpenes support the benefits of forest bathing and propose a potential use of terpenes as chemotherapeutic agents for treating various human diseases. Article Published Date : Mar 31, 2017

Abstract Title: The Salutary Influence of Forest Bathing on Elderly Patients with Chronic Heart Failure. Abstract Source: Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2017 Mar 31 ;14(4). Epub 2017 Mar 31. PMID: 28362327 Abstract Author(s): Genxiang Mao, Yongbao Cao, Bozhong Wang, Sanying Wang, Zhuomei Chen, Jirong Wang, Wenmin Xing, Xiaoxu Ren, Xiaoling Lv, Jianhua Dong, Shasha Chen, Xiuyuan Chen, Guofu Wang, Jing Yan Article Affiliation: Genxiang Mao Abstract: The aim of the current study was to test the hypothesis that forest bathing would be beneficial for elderly patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) as an adjunctive therapy. Two groups of participants with CHF were simultaneously sent to the forest or an urban control area for a four-day trip, respectively. Subjects exposed to the forest site showed a significant reduction of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) in comparison to that of the city group and their own baseline levels. The values for the cardiovascular disease related pathological factors, including endothelin-1 (ET-1), and constituents of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), including renin, angiotensinogen (AGT), angiotensin II (ANGII), and ANGII receptor type 1 or 2 (AT1 or AT2) in subjects exposed to the forest environment were lower than those in the urban control group. Obviously, a decreased level of inflammatory cytokines and improved antioxidant function was observed in the forest group rather than in the city group. The assessment of the profile of mood states (POMS) indicated that the negative emotional mood state was alleviated after forest bathing. As anticipated, a better air quality in the forest site was observed according to the detection of PM2.5 (particulate matter<2.5μm) and negative ions. These results provided direct evidence that forest bathing has a beneficial effect on CHF patients, and thus may pave the way for potential development of forest bathing as an effective adjunctive therapy on cardiovascular disorders. Article Published Date : Mar 30, 2017

Abstract Title: The relationship between natural outdoor environments and cognitive functioning and its mediators. Abstract Source: Environ Res. 2017 Feb 27 ;155:268-275. Epub 2017 Feb 27. PMID: 28254708 Abstract Author(s): Wilma L Zijlema, Margarita Triguero-Mas, Graham Smith, Marta Cirach, David Martinez, Payam Dadvand, Mireia Gascon, Marc Jones, Christopher Gidlow, Gemma Hurst, Daniel Masterson, Naomi Ellis, Magdalena van den Berg, Jolanda Maas, Irene van Kamp, Peter van den Hazel, Hanneke Kruize, Mark J Nieuwenhuijsen, Jordi Julvez Article Affiliation: Wilma L Zijlema Abstract: BACKGROUND: Urban residents may experience cognitive fatigue and little opportunity for mental restoration due to a lack of access to nature. Natural outdoor environments (NOE) are thought to be beneficial for cognitive functioning, but underlying mechanisms are not clear. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the long-term association between NOE and cognitive function, and its potential mediators. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was based on adult participants of the Positive Health Effects of the Natural Outdoor Environment in Typical Populations in Different Regions in Europe (PHENOTYPE) project. Data were collected in Barcelona, Spain; Doetinchem, the Netherlands; and Stoke-on-Trent, United Kingdom. We assessed residential distance to NOE, residential surrounding greenness, perceived amount of neighborhood NOE, and engagement with NOE. Cognitive function was assessed with the Color Trails Test (CTT). Mediation analysis was undertaken following Baron and Kenny. RESULTS: Each 100m increase in residential distance to NOE was associated with a longer CTT completion time of 1.50% (95% CI 0.13, 2.89). No associations were found for other NOE indicators and cognitive function. Neighborhood social cohesion was (marginally) significantly associated with both residential distance to NOE and CTT completion time, but no evidence for mediation was found. Nor were there indications for mediation by physical activity, social interaction with neighbors, loneliness, mental health, air pollution worries, or noise annoyance. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings provide some indication that proximity to nature may benefit cognitive function. We could not establish which mechanisms may explain this relationship. Article Published Date : Feb 26, 2017

Abstract Title: Physiological Effects of Nature Therapy: A Review of the Research in Japan. Abstract Source: Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2016 Aug 3 ;13(8). Epub 2016 Aug 3. PMID: 27527193 Abstract Author(s): Chorong Song, Harumi Ikei, Yoshifumi Miyazaki Article Affiliation: Chorong Song Abstract: Humans have evolved into what they are today after the passage of 6-7 million years. If we define the beginning of urbanization as the rise of the industrial revolution, less than 0.01% of our species' history has been spent in modern surroundings. Humans have spent over 99.99% of their time living in the natural environment. The gap between the natural setting, for which our physiological functions are adapted, and the highly urbanized and artificial setting that we inhabit is a contributing cause of the"stress state"in modern people. In recent years, scientific evidence supporting the physiological effects of relaxation caused by natural stimuli has accumulated. This review aimed to objectively demonstrate the physiological effects of nature therapy. We have reviewed research in Japan related to the following: (1) the physiological effects of nature therapy, including those of forests, urban green space, plants, and wooden material and (2) the analyses of individual differences that arise therein. The search was conducted in the PubMed database using various keywords. We applied our inclusion/exclusion criteria and reviewed 52 articles. Scientific data assessing physiological indicators, such as brain activity, autonomic nervous activity, endocrine activity, and immune activity, are accumulating from field and laboratory experiments. We believe that nature therapy will play an increasingly important role in preventive medicine in the future. Article Published Date : Aug 02, 2016

Abstract Title: Health Effect of Forest Bathing Trip on Elderly Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Abstract Source: Biomed Environ Sci. 2016 Mar ;29(3):212-8. PMID: 27109132 Abstract Author(s): Bing Bing Jia, Zhou Xin Yang, Gen Xiang Mao, Yuan Dong Lyu, Xiao Lin Wen, Wei Hong Xu, Xiao Ling Lyu, Yong Bao Cao, Guo Fu Wang Article Affiliation: Bing Bing Jia Abstract: Forest bathing trip is a short, leisurely visit to forest. In this study we determined the health effects of forest bathing trip on elderly patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The patients were randomly divided into two groups. One group was sent to forest, and the other was sent to an urban area as control. Flow cytometry, ELISA, and profile of mood states (POMS) evaluation were performed. In the forest group, we found a significant decrease of perforin and granzyme B expressions, accompanied by decreased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and stress hormones. Meanwhile, the scores in the negative subscales of POMS decreased after forest bathing trip. These results indicate that forest bathing trip has health effect on elderly COPD patients by reducing inflammation and stress level. Article Published Date : Feb 29, 2016

Abstract Title: Effects of Forest Bathing on Cardiovascular and Metabolic Parameters in Middle-Aged Males. Abstract Source: Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2016 ;2016:2587381. Epub 2016 Jul 14. PMID: 27493670 Abstract Author(s): Qing Li, Maiko Kobayashi, Shigeyoshi Kumeda, Toshiya Ochiai, Takashi Miura, Takahide Kagawa, Michiko Imai, Zhiyu Wang, Toshiaki Otsuka, Tomoyuki Kawada Article Affiliation: Qing Li Abstract: In the present study, we investigated the effects of a forest bathing on cardiovascular and metabolic parameters. Nineteen middle-aged male subjects were selected after they provided informed consent. These subjects took day trips to a forest park in Agematsu, Nagano Prefecture, and to an urban area of Nagano Prefecture as control in August 2015. On both trips, they walked 2.6 km for 80 min each in the morning and afternoon on Saturdays. Blood and urine were sampled before and after each trip. Cardiovascular and metabolic parameters were measured. Blood pressure and pulse rate were measured during the trips. The Japanese version of the profile of mood states (POMS) test was conducted before, during, and after the trips. Ambient temperature and humidity were monitored during the trips. The forest bathing program significantly reduced pulse rate and significantly increased the score for vigor and decreased the scores for depression, fatigue, anxiety, and confusion. Urinary adrenaline after forest bathing showed a tendency toward decrease. Urinary dopamine after forest bathing was significantly lower than that after urban area walking, suggesting the relaxing effect of the forest bathing. Serum adiponectin after the forest bathing was significantly greater than that after urban area walking. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2015

Abstract Title: The Effects of Forest Therapy on Coping with Chronic Widespread Pain: Physiological and Psychological Differences between Participants in a Forest Therapy Program and a Control Group. Abstract Source: Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2016 ;13(3). Epub 2016 Feb 24. PMID: 26927141 Abstract Author(s): Jin-Woo Han, Han Choi, Yo-Han Jeon, Chong-Hyeon Yoon, Jong-Min Woo, Won Kim Article Affiliation: Jin-Woo Han Abstract: This study aimed to investigate the effects of a two-day forest therapy program on individuals with chronic widespread pain. Sixty one employees of a public organization providing building and facilities management services within the Seoul Metropolitan area participated in the study. Participants were assigned to an experimental group (n = 33) who participated in a forest therapy program or a control group (n = 28) on a non-random basis. Pre- and post-measures of heart rate variability (HRV), Natural Killer cell (NK cell) activity, self-reported pain using the visual analog scale (VAS), depression level using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and health-related quality of life measures using the EuroQol Visual Analog Scale (EQ-VAS) were collected in both groups. The results showed that participants in the forest therapy group, as compared to the control group, showed physiological improvement as indicated by a significant increase in some measures of HRV and an increase in immune competence as indicated by NK cell activity. Participants in the forest therapy group also reported significant decreases in pain and depression, and a significant improvement in health-related quality of life. These results support the hypothesis that forest therapy is an effective intervention to relieve pain and associated psychological and physiological symptoms in individuals with chronic widespread pain. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2015

Abstract Title: 30 Days Wild: Development and Evaluation of a Large-Scale Nature Engagement Campaign to Improve Well-Being. Abstract Source: PLoS One. 2016 ;11(2):e0149777. Epub 2016 Feb 18. PMID: 26890891 Abstract Author(s): Miles Richardson, Adam Cormack, Lucy McRobert, Ralph Underhill Article Affiliation: Miles Richardson Abstract: There is a need to increase people's engagement with and connection to nature, both for human well-being and the conservation of nature itself. In order to suggest ways for people to engage with nature and create a wider social context to normalise nature engagement, The Wildlife Trusts developed a mass engagement campaign, 30 Days Wild. The campaign asked people to engage with nature every day for a month. 12,400 people signed up for 30 Days Wild via an online sign-up with an estimated 18,500 taking part overall, resulting in an estimated 300,000 engagements with nature by participants. Samples of those taking part were found to have sustained increases in happiness, health, connection to nature and pro-nature behaviours. With the improvement in health being predicted by the improvement in happiness, this relationship was mediated by the change in connection to nature. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2015

Abstract Title: Physiological and Psychological Effects of a Forest Therapy Program on Middle-Aged Females. Abstract Source: Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2015 Dec ;12(12):15222-32. Epub 2015 Dec 1. PMID: 26633447 Abstract Author(s): Hiroko Ochiai, Harumi Ikei, Chorong Song, Maiko Kobayashi, Takashi Miura, Takahide Kagawa, Qing Li, Shigeyoshi Kumeda, Michiko Imai, Yoshifumi Miyazaki Article Affiliation: Hiroko Ochiai Abstract: The natural environment is increasingly recognized as an effective counter to urban stress, and"Forest Therapy"has recently attracted attention as a relaxation and stress management activity with demonstrated clinical efficacy. The present study assessed the physiological and psychological effects of a forest therapy program on middle-aged females. Seventeen Japanese females (62.2± 9.4 years; mean ± standard deviation) participated in this experiment. Pulse rate, salivary cortisol level, and psychological indices were measured on the day before forest therapy and on the forest therapy day. Pulse rate and salivary cortisol were significantly lower than baseline following forest therapy, indicating that subjects were in a physiologically relaxed state. Subjects reported feeling significantly more"comfortable,""relaxed,"and"natural"according to the semantic differential (SD) method. The Profile of Mood State (POMS) negative mood subscale score for"tension-anxiety"was significantly lower, while that for"vigor"was significantly higher following forest therapy. Our study revealed that forest therapy elicited a significant (1) decrease in pulse rate, (2) decrease in salivary cortisol levels, (3) increase in positive feelings, and (4) decrease in negative feelings. In conclusion, there are substantial physiological and psychological benefits of forest therapy on middle-aged females. Article Published Date : Nov 30, 2015

Abstract Title: Physiological and psychological effects of forest therapy on middle-aged males with high-normal blood pressure. Abstract Source: Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2015 Mar ;12(3):2532-42. Epub 2015 Feb 25. PMID: 25809507 Abstract Author(s): Hiroko Ochiai, Harumi Ikei, Chorong Song, Maiko Kobayashi, Ako Takamatsu, Takashi Miura, Takahide Kagawa, Qing Li, Shigeyoshi Kumeda, Michiko Imai, Yoshifumi Miyazaki Article Affiliation: Hiroko Ochiai Abstract: Time spent walking and relaxing in a forest environment ("forest bathing"or"forest therapy") has well demonstrated anti-stress effects in healthy adults, but benefits for ill or at-risk populations have not been reported. The present study assessed the physiological and psychological effects of forest therapy (relaxation and stress management activity in the forest) on middle-aged males with high-normal blood pressure. Blood pressure and several physiological and psychological indices of stress were measured the day before and approximately 2 h following forest therapy. Both pre- and post-treatment measures were conducted at the same time of day to avoid circadian influences. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP), urinary adrenaline, and serum cortisol were all significantly lower than baseline following forest therapy (p<0.05). Subjects reported feeling significantly more"relaxed"and"natural"according to the Semantic Differential (SD) method. Profile of Mood State (POMS) negative mood subscale scores for"tension-anxiety,""confusion,"and"anger-hostility,"as well as the Total Mood Disturbance (TMD) score were significantly lower following forest therapy. These results highlight that forest is a promising treatment strategy to reduce blood pressure into the optimal range and possibly prevent progression to clinical hypertension in middle-aged males with high-normal blood pressure. Article Published Date : Feb 28, 2015

Abstract Title: Clinical and immunological effects of a forest trip in children with asthma and atopic dermatitis. Abstract Source: Iran J Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2015 Feb ;14(1):28-36. PMID: 25530136 Abstract Author(s): Sung Chul Seo, Su Jin Park, Chan-Woo Park, Won Suck Yoon, Ji Tae Choung, Young Yoo Article Affiliation: Sung Chul Seo Abstract: Asthma and atopic dermatitis are common allergic diseases, and their prevalence has increased in urban children. Recently, it is becoming understood that forest environment has favorable health effects in patients with chronic diseases. To investigate favorable clinical and immunologic effects of forest, we examined changes in clinical symptoms, indirect airway inflammatory marker, and serum chemokines before and after a short-term forest trip. The forest trips were performed with 21 children with asthma and 27 children with atopic dermatitis. All participating children were living in air polluted urban inner-city. We measured spirometry and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) in children with asthma and measured scoring atopic dermatitis (SCORAD) index and Thymus and Activation-Regulated Chemokine (TARC)/CCL17 and Macrophage-Derived Chemokine (MDC)/CCL22 levels in children with atopic dermatitis before and after the forest trip. Indoor air pollutants such as indoor mold, particulate matter 10 (PM10) and total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs) of each child's home and the accommodations within forest were measured. A significant increase in forced vital capacity (FVC) and a significant decrease in FeNO were observed after the forest trip in children with asthma. SCORAD indices and MDC/CCL22 levels were significantly decreased after the forest trip in children with atopic dermatitis. Airborne mold and PM10 levels in indoor were significantly lower in the forest accommodations than those of children's homes; however, TVOC levels were not different between the two measured sites. Short-term exposure to forest environment may have clinical and immunological effects in children with allergic diseases who were living in the urban community. Article Published Date : Jan 31, 2015

Abstract Title: Phytoncide, Nanochemicals from Chamaecyparis obtusa, Inhibits Proliferation and Migration of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells. Abstract Source: J Nanosci Nanotechnol. 2015 Jan ;15(1):112-5. PMID: 26328312 Abstract Author(s): Leejin Lim, Young-Su Jang, Je-Jung Yun, Heesang Song Article Affiliation: Leejin Lim Abstract: Phytoncide, nanochemicals extracted from Chamaecyparis obtusa (C. obtusa), is reported to possess many pharmacological activities including immunological stimulating, anti-cancer, antioxidant, and antiinflammatory activities. However, the effect of phytoncide in vascuar diseases, especially on the behavior of vascular smooth muscle cells, has not yet been clearly elucidated. Therefore, in the present study, we investigated the effects of 15 kinds of phytoncide by various extraction conditions from C. obtusa on the proliferation and migration in rat aortic smooth muscle cells (RAoSMCs). First of all, we determined the concentration of each extracts not having cytotoxicity by MTT assay. We observed that the proliferation rate measured using BrdU assay was significantly reduced by supercritical fluid, steam distillation, Me-OH, and hexane extraction fraction in order with higher extent, respectively. Moreover, the treatment of above nanofractions inhibit the migration of RAoSMCs by 40%, 60%, and 30%, respectively, both in 2-D wound healing assay and 3-D boyden chamber assay. Immunoblot revealed that the phosphorylated levels of Akt and ERK were significantly reduced in nanofractions treated RAoSMCs. Taken together, these data suggest that phytoncide extracted from C. obtusa inhibits proliferation and migration in RAoSMCs via the modulation of phosphorylated levels of Akt and ERK. Therefore, phytoncide nanomolecules might be a potential therapeutic approach to prevent or treat atheroscrelosis and restenosis. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2014

Abstract Title: Possibility of clinical applications of forest medicine. Abstract Source: Nihon Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2014 ;69(2):117-21. PMID: 24858507 Abstract Author(s): Qing Li, Tomoyuki Kawada Article Affiliation: Qing Li Abstract: Since 2004, we have conducted a series of studies of the effect of forest therapy on human health and established forest therapy as a new preventive strategy. We have found that forest therapy has many beneficial effects on human health. However, there is almost no study dealing with the possibility of clinical applications of forest therapy. In this review, we discuss the possibility of clinical applications of forest therapy from the following viewpoints: 1. Forest therapy can decrease blood pressure, heart rate, sympathetic nerve activity, and levels of stress hormones, such as urinary adrenaline and noradrenaline, and can increase parasympathetic nerve activity, suggesting its preventive effect on hypertension. 2. Forest therapy can also decreace the scores for anxiety, depression, anger, fatigue, and confusion and increase the score for vigor in the Profile of Mood States (POMS) test, suggesting its preventive effect on mental depression. 3. Forest therapy can increase the activity and number of human natural killer (NK) cells and the intracellular levels of anticancer proteins, suggesting its preventive effect on cancers. 4. These findings suggest that forest therapy may have preventive effects on lifestyle-related diseases. However, the above preventive effects of forest therapy should be confirmed in clinical research. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2013

Abstract Title: Influence of forest therapy on cardiovascular relaxation in young adults. Abstract Source: Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2014 ;2014:834360. Epub 2014 Feb 10. PMID: 24660018 Abstract Author(s): Juyoung Lee, Yuko Tsunetsugu, Norimasa Takayama, Bum-Jin Park, Qing Li, Chorong Song, Misako Komatsu, Harumi Ikei, Liisa Tyrväinen, Takahide Kagawa, Yoshifumi Miyazaki Article Affiliation: Juyoung Lee Abstract: Background. Despite increasing attention toward forest therapy as an alternative medicine, very little evidence continues to be available on its therapeutic effects. Therefore, this study was focused on elucidating the health benefits of forest walking on cardiovascular reactivity. Methods. Within-group comparisons were used to examine the cardiovascular responses to walking in forest and urban environments. Forty-eight young adult males participated in the two-day field research. Changes in heart rate variability, heart rate, and blood pressure were measured to understand cardiovascular reactivity. Four different questionnaires were used to investigate the changes in psychological states after walking activities. Results. Forest walking significantly increased the values of ln(HF) and significantly decreased the values of ln(LF/HF) compared with the urban walking. Heart rate during forest walking was significantly lower than that in the control. Questionnaire results showed that negative mood states and anxiety levels decreased significantly by forest walking compared with urban walking. Conclusion. Walking in the forest environment may promote cardiovascular relaxation by facilitating the parasympathetic nervous system and by suppressing the sympathetic nervous system. In addition, forest therapy may be effective for reducing negative psychological symptoms. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2013

Abstract Title: Physiological and psychological effects of walking on young males in urban parks in winter. Abstract Source: J Physiol Anthropol. 2013 ;32:18. Epub 2013 Oct 29. PMID: 24168929 Abstract Author(s): Chorong Song, Dawou Joung, Harumi Ikei, Miho Igarashi, Mariko Aga, Bum-Jin Park, Masayuki Miwa, Michiko Takagaki, Yoshifumi Miyazaki Article Affiliation: Chorong Song Abstract: BACKGROUND: Interaction with nature has a relaxing effect on humans. Increasing attention has been focused on the therapeutic effects of urban green space; however, there is a lack of evidence-based field research. This study provided scientific evidence supporting the physiological and psychological effects of walking on young males in urban parks in winter. FINDINGS: Subjects (13 males aged 22.5± 3.1 years) were instructed to walk predetermined 15-minute courses in an urban park (test) and in the city area (control). Heart rate and heart rate variability (HRV) were measured to assess physiological responses. The semantic differential (SD) method, Profile of Mood States (POMS), and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) were used to determine psychological responses.Heart rate was significantly lower and the natural logarithm of the high frequency component of HRV was significantly higher when walking through the urban park than through the city area. The results of three questionnaires indicated that walking in the urban park improved mood and decreased negative feelings and anxiety. CONCLUSIONS: Physiological and psychological data from this field experiment provide important scientific evidence regarding the health benefits of walking in an urban park. The results support the premise that walking in an urban park has relaxing effects even in winter. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2012

Abstract Title: Therapeutic effect of forest bathing on human hypertension in the elderly. Abstract Source: J Cardiol. 2012 Dec ;60(6):495-502. Epub 2012 Sep 1. PMID: 22948092 Abstract Author(s): Gen-Xiang Mao, Yong-Bao Cao, Xiao-Guang Lan, Zhi-Hua He, Zhuo-Mei Chen, Ya-Zhen Wang, Xi-Lian Hu, Yuan-Dong Lv, Guo-Fu Wang, Jing Yan Article Affiliation: Gen-Xiang Mao Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To provide scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of forest bathing as a natural therapy for human hypertension. METHODS: Twenty-four elderly patients with essential hypertension were randomly divided into two groups of 12. One group was sent to a broad-leaved evergreen forest to experience a 7-day/7-night trip, and the other was sent to a city area in Hangzhou for control. Blood pressure indicators, cardiovascular disease-related pathological factors including endothelin-1, homocysteine, renin, angiotensinogen, angiotensin II, angiotensin II type 1 receptor, angiotensin II type 2 receptor as well as inflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factorα were detected. Meanwhile, profile of mood states (POMS) evaluation was used to assess the change of mood state of subjects. In addition, the air quality in the two experimental sites was monitored during the 7-day duration, simultaneously. RESULTS: The baselines of the indicators of the subjects were not significantly different. Little alteration in the detected indicators in the city group was observed after the experiment. While subjects exposed to the forest environment showed a significant reduction in blood pressure in comparison to that of the city group. The values for the bio-indicators in subjects exposed to the forest environment were also lower than those in the urban control group and the baseline levels of themselves. POMS evaluation showed that the scores in the negative subscales were lowered after exposure to the forest environment. Besides, the air quality in the forest environment was much better than that of the urban area evidenced by the quantitative detection of negative ions and PM10 (particulate matter<10μm in aerodynamic diameter). CONCLUSION: Our results provided direct evidence that forest bathing has therapeutic effects on human hypertension and induces inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system and inflammation, and thus inspiring its preventive efficacy against cardiovascular disorders. Article Published Date : Nov 30, 2012

Abstract Title: Effects of short-term forest bathing on human health in a broad-leaved evergreen forest in Zhejiang Province, China. Abstract Source: Biomed Environ Sci. 2012 Jun ;25(3):317-24. PMID: 22840583 Abstract Author(s): Gen Xiang Mao, Xiao Guang Lan, Yong Bao Cao, Zhuo Mei Chen, Zhi Hua He, Yuan Dong Lv, Ya Zhen Wang, Xi Lian Hu, Guo Fu Wang, Jing Yan Article Affiliation: Gen Xiang Mao Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of short-term forest bathing on human health. METHODS: Twenty healthy male university students participated as subjects and were randomly divided into two groups of 10. One group was sent on a two-night trip to a broad-leaved evergreen forest, and the other was sent to a city area. Serum cytokine levels reflecting inflammatory and stress response, indicators reflecting oxidative stress, the distribution of leukocyte subsets, and plasma endothelin-1 (ET-1) concentrations were measured before and after the experiment to evaluate the positive health effects of forest environments. A profile of mood states (POMS) evaluation was used to assess changes in mood states. RESULTS: No significant differences in the baseline values of the indicators were observed between the two groups before the experiment. Subjects exposed to the forest environment showed reduced oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory level, as evidenced by decreased malondialdehyde, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor a levels compared with the urban group. Serum cortisol levels were also lower than in the urban group. Notably, the concentration of plasma ET-1 was much lower in subjects exposed to the forest environment. The POMS evaluation showed that after exposure to the forest environment, subjects had lower scores in the negative subscales, and the score for vigor was increased. CONCLUSION: Forest bathing is beneficial to human health, perhaps through preventive effects related to several pathological factors. Article Published Date : May 31, 2012

Abstract Title: The physiological effects of Shinrin-yoku (taking in the forest atmosphere or forest bathing): evidence from field experiments in 24 forests across Japan. Abstract Source: Environ Health Prev Med. 2010 Jan;15(1):18-26. PMID: 19568835 Abstract Author(s): Bum Jin Park, Yuko Tsunetsugu, Tamami Kasetani, Takahide Kagawa, Yoshifumi Miyazaki Abstract: This paper reviews previous research on the physiological effects of Shinrin-yoku (taking in the forest atmosphere or forest bathing), and presents new results from field experiments conducted in 24 forests across Japan. The term Shinrin-yoku was coined by the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries in 1982, and can be defined as making contact with and taking in the atmosphere of the forest. In order to clarify the physiological effects of Shinrin-yoku, we conducted field experiments in 24 forests across Japan. In each experiment, 12 subjects (280 total; ages 21.7 +/- 1.5 year) walked in and viewed a forest or city area. On the first day, six subjects were sent to a forest area, and the others to a city area. On the second day, each group was sent to the other area as a cross-check. Salivary cortisol, blood pressure, pulse rate, and heart rate variability were used as indices. These indices were measured in the morning at the accommodation facility before breakfast and also both before and after the walking (for 16 +/- 5 min) and viewing (for 14 +/- 2 min). The R-R interval was also measured during the walking and viewing periods. The results show that forest environments promote lower concentrations of cortisol, lower pulse rate, lower blood pressure, greater parasympathetic nerve activity, and lower sympathetic nerve activity than do city environments. These results will contribute to the development of a research field dedicated to forest medicine, which may be used as a strategy for preventive medicine. Article Published Date : Jan 01, 2010

Abstract Title: Effect of forest bathing trips on human immune function. Abstract Source: Environ Health Prev Med. 2010 Jan ;15(1):9-17. PMID: 19568839 Abstract Author(s): Qing Li Article Affiliation: Qing Li Abstract: In Japan, a forest bathing trip, called"Shinrinyoku"in Japanese, is a short, leisurely visit to a forest; it is regarded as being similar to natural aromatherapy. This review focuses on the effects of forest bathing trips on human immune function. Beginning in 2005, adult Japanese individuals, both male and female, participated in a series of studies aimed at investigating the effect of forest bathing trips on human immune function. The subjects experienced a 3-day/2-night trip to forest areas, and blood and urine were sampled on days 2 (the first sampling during each trip) and 3 (the second sampling during each trip), and on days 7 and 30 after the trips. Natural killer (NK) activity, the numbers of NK, granulysin-, perforin-, and granzymes A/B-expressing lymphocytes in the blood, and the concentration of urinary adrenaline were measured. The same measurements were made before the trips on a normal working day as a control. The mean values of NK activity and the numbers of NK, granulysin-, perforin-, and granzymes A/B-expressing cells on forest bathing days were significantly higher than those on the control days, whereas the mean values of the concentration of urinary adrenaline on forest bathing days were significantly lower than that on the control days in both male and female subjects. The increased NK activity lasted for more than 30 days after the trip, suggesting that a forest bathing trip once a month would enable individuals to maintain a higher level of NK activity. In contrast, a visit to the city as a tourist did not increase NK activity, the numbers of NK cells, or the level of intracellular granulysin, perforin, and granzymes A/B. These findings indicate that forest bathing trips resulted in an increase in NK activity, which was mediated by increases in the number of NK cells and the levels of intracellular granulysin, perforin, and granzymes A/B. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2009

Abstract Title: A forest bathing trip increases human natural killer activity and expression of anti-cancer proteins in female subjects. Abstract Source: J Biol Regul Homeost Agents. 2008 Jan-Mar;22(1):45-55. PMID: 18394317 Abstract Author(s): Q Li, K Morimoto, M Kobayashi, H Inagaki, M Katsumata, Y Hirata, K Hirata, T Shimizu, Y J Li, Y Wakayama, T Kawada, T Ohira, N Takayama, T Kagawa, Y Miyazaki Article Affiliation: Q Li Abstract: We previously reported that forest bathing trips enhanced human NK activity, number of NK cells, and intracellular anti-cancer proteins in lymphocytes, and that the increased NK activity lasted for more than 7 days after the trip in male subjects. In the present study, we investigated the effect of forest bathing trip on human NK activity in female subjects. Thirteen healthy nurses, age 25-43 years, professional career 4-18 years, were selected with informed consent. The subjects experienced a three-day/two-night trip to forest fields. On day 1, the subjects walked for two hours in the afternoon in a forest field; on day 2, they walked for two hours each in the morning and afternoon in two different forest fields; and on day 3, the subjects finished the trip and returned to Tokyo after drawing blood and completing a questionnaire. Blood and urine were sampled on the second and third days during the trip, and on days 7 and 30 after the trip. NK activity, numbers of NK and T cells, and granulysin, perforin, and granzymes A/B-expressing lymphocytes in the blood samples, the concentrations of estradiol and progesterone in serum, and the concentrations of adrenaline and noradrenaline in urine were measured. Similar control measurements were made before the trip on a normal working day. The concentrations of phytoncides in the forests were measured. The forest bathing trip significantly increased NK activity and the numbers of NK, perforin, granulysin, and granzymes A/B-expressing cells and significantly decreased the percentage of T cells, and the concentrations of adrenaline and noradrenaline in urine. The increased NK activity lasted for more than 7 days after the trip. Phytoncides, such as alpha-pinene and beta-pinene were detected in forest air. These findings indicate that a forest bathing trip also increased NK activity, number of NK cells, and levels of intracellular anti-cancer proteins in female subjects, and that this effect lasted at least 7 days after the trip. Phytoncides released from trees and decreased stress hormone levels may partially contribute to the increased NK activity. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2007

Abstract Title: Visiting a forest, but not a city, increases human natural killer activity and expression of anti-cancer proteins. Abstract Source: Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol. 2008 Jan-Mar;21(1):117-27. PMID: 18336737 Abstract Author(s): Q Li, K Morimoto, M Kobayashi, H Inagaki, M Katsumata, Y Hirata, K Hirata, H Suzuki, Y J Li, Y Wakayama, T Kawada, B J Park, T Ohira, N Matsui, T Kagawa, Y Miyazaki, A M Krensky Article Affiliation: Q Li Abstract: We previously reported that a forest bathing trip enhanced human NK activity, number of NK cells, and intracellular anti-cancer proteins in lymphocytes. In the present study, we investigated how long the increased NK activity lasts and compared the effect of a forest bathing trip on NK activity with a trip to places in a city without forests. Twelve healthy male subjects, age 35-56 years, were selected with informed consent. The subjects experienced a three-day/two-night trip to forest fields and to a city, in which activity levels during both trips were matched. On day 1, subjects walked for two hours in the afternoon in a forest field; and on day 2, they walked for two hours in the morning and afternoon, respectively, in two different forest fields; and on day 3, the subjects finished the trip and returned to Tokyo after drawing blood samples and completing the questionnaire. Blood and urine were sampled on the second and third days during the trips, and on days 7 and 30 after the trip, and NK activity, numbers of NK and T cells, and granulysin, perforin, and granzymes A/B-expressing lymphocytes in the blood samples, and the concentration of adrenaline in urine were measured. Similar measurements were made before the trips on a normal working day as the control. Phytoncide concentrations in forest and city air were measured. The forest bathing trip significantly increased NK activity and the numbers of NK, perforin, granulysin, and granzyme A/B-expressing cells and significantly decreased the concentration of adrenaline in urine. The increased NK activity lasted for more than 7 days after the trip. In contrast, a city tourist visit did not increase NK activity, numbers of NK cells, nor the expression of selected intracellular anti-cancer proteins, and did not decrease the concentration of adrenaline in urine. Phytoncides, such as alpha-pinene and beta-pinene were detected in forest air, but almost not in city air. These findings indicate that a forest bathing trip increased NK activity, number of NK cells, and levels of intracellular anti-cancer proteins, and that this effect lasted at least 7 days after the trip. Phytoncides released from trees and decreased stress hormone may partially contribute to the increased NK activity. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2007

Abstract Title: Physiological effects of Shinrin-yoku (taking in the atmosphere of the forest) in an old-growth broadleaf forest in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan. Abstract Source: J Physiol Anthropol. 2007 Mar;26(2):135-42. PMID: 17435356 Abstract Author(s): Yuko Tsunetsugu, Bum-Jin Park, Hideki Ishii, Hideki Hirano, Takahide Kagawa, Yoshifumi Miyazaki Abstract: The physiological effects of "Shinrin-yoku" (taking in the atmosphere of the forest) were examined by investigating blood pressure, pulse rate, heart rate variability (HRV), salivary cortisol concentration, and immunoglobulin A concentration in saliva. Subjective feelings of being "comfortable", "calm", and "refreshed" were also assessed by questionnaire. The subjects were 12 male university students aged from 21 to 23 (mean+/-SD: 22.0+/-1.0). The physiological measurements were conducted six times, i.e., in the morning and evening before meals at the place of accommodation, before and after the subjects walked a predetermined course in the forest and city areas for 15 minutes, and before and after they sat still on a chair watching the scenery in the respective areas for 15 minutes. The findings were as follows. In the forest area compared to the city area, 1) blood pressure and pulse rate were significantly lower, and 2) the power of the HF component of the HRV tended to be higher and LF/(LF+HF) tended to be lower. Also, 3) salivary cortisol concentration was significantly lower in the forest area. These physiological responses suggest that sympathetic nervous activity was suppressed and parasympathetic nervous activity was enhanced in the forest area, and that "Shinrin-yoku" reduced stress levels. In the subjective evaluation, 4) "comfortable", "calm", and "refreshed" feelings were significantly higher in the forest area. The present study has, by conducting physiological investigations with subjective evaluations as supporting evidence, demonstrated the relaxing and stress-relieving effects of "Shinrin-yoku". Article Published Date : Mar 01, 2007

Abstract Title: Psychological effects of forest environments on healthy adults: Shinrin-yoku (forest-air bathing, walking) as a possible method of stress reduction. Abstract Source: Public Health. 2007 Jan ;121(1):54-63. Epub 2006 Oct 20. PMID: 17055544 Abstract Author(s): E Morita, S Fukuda, J Nagano, N Hamajima, H Yamamoto, Y Iwai, T Nakashima, H Ohira, T Shirakawa Article Affiliation: E Morita Abstract: OBJECTIVES: Shinrin-yoku (walking and/or staying in forests in order to promote health) is a major form of relaxation in Japan; however, its effects have yet to be completely clarified. The aims of this study were: (1) to evaluate the psychological effects of shinrin-yoku in a large number of participants; and (2) to identify the factors related to these effects. METHODS: Four hundred and ninety-eight healthy volunteers took part in the study. Surveys were conducted twice in a forest on the same day (forest day) and twice on a control day. Outcome measures were evaluated using the Multiple Mood Scale-Short Form (hostility, depression, boredom, friendliness, wellbeing and liveliness) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory A-State Scale. Statistical analyses were conducted using analysis of variance and multiple regression analyses. RESULTS: Hostility (P<0.001) and depression (P<0.001) scores decreased significantly, and liveliness (P=0.001) scores increased significantly on the forest day compared with the control day. The main effect of environment was also observed with all outcomes except for hostility, and the forest environment was advantageous. Stress levels were shown to be related to the magnitude of the shinrin-yoku effect; the higher the stress level, the greater the effect. CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed that forest environments are advantageous with respect to acute emotions, especially among those experiencing chronic stress. Accordingly, shinrin-yoku may be employed as a stress reduction method, and forest environments can be viewed as therapeutic landscapes. Therefore, customary shinrin-yoku may help to decrease the risk of psychosocial stress-related diseases, and evaluation of the long-term effects of shinrin-yoku is warranted. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2006

Abstract Title: Phytoncides (wood essential oils) induce human natural killer cell activity. Abstract Source: Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol. 2006 ;28(2):319-33. PMID: 16873099 Abstract Author(s): Qing Li, Ari Nakadai, Hiroki Matsushima, Yoshifumi Miyazaki, Alan M Krensky, Tomoyuki Kawada, Kanehisa Morimoto Article Affiliation: Qing Li Abstract: To explore the effect of forest bathing on the human immune system, we investigated the effect of phytoncides (wood essential oils) on natural killer (NK) activity and the expression of perforin, granzyme A and granulysin in human NK cells. We used NK-92MI cell, an interleukin-2 independent human NK cell line derived from the NK-92 cell, in the present study. NK-92MI cells express the CD56 surface marker, perforin, granzyme A, and granulysin by flow cytometry and are highly cytotoxic to K562 cells in chromium release assay. Phytoncides significantly increase cytolytic activity of NK-92MI cells in a dose-dependent manner and significantly increase the expression of perforin, granzyme A, and granulysin in the NK-92MI cells. Phytoncides also partially, but significantly, restore the decreased human NK activity and the decreased perforin, granzyme A, and granulysin expression in NK-92MI cells induced by dimethyl 2,2-dichlorovinyl phosphate (DDVP), an organophosphorus pesticide. Pretreatment with phytoncides partially prevents DDVP-induced inhibition of NK activity. Taken together, these data indicate that phytoncides significantly enhance human NK activity and this effect is at least partially mediated by induction of intracellular perforin, granzyme A, and granulysin. Article Published Date : Dec 31, 2005

Abstract Title: Effects of phytoncides on blood pressure under restraint stress in SHRSP. Abstract Source: Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol. 2004 Dec ;31 Suppl 2:S27-8. PMID: 15649280 Abstract Author(s): Kohei Kawakami, Mai Kawamoto, Masato Nomura, Hiroki Otani, Toru Nabika, Tatsuo Gonda Article Affiliation: Kohei Kawakami Abstract: 1. Phytoncides are volatile substances released mainly from trees. We studied whether phytoncides can reduce stress responses in stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRSP). 2. Under the restraint stress, SHRSP exposed to phytoncides showed lower blood pressure than those without the exposure (186.8 +/- 3.9 vs 207.7 +/- 3.4 mmHg, respectively, P<0.01 by Student's t-test). 3. Consistent with the observation above, the plasma concentration of catecholamines under the restraint stress was lower in the phytoncides group than in the control group. 4. Based on these results, we concluded that phytoncides reduced the cardiovascular response to restraint stress in SHRSP. Article Published Date : Nov 30, 2004

Abstract Title: Shinrin-yoku (forest-air bathing and walking) effectively decreases blood glucose levels in diabetic patients. Abstract Source: Int J Biometeorol. 1998 Feb ;41(3):125-7. PMID: 9531856 Abstract Author(s): Y Ohtsuka, N Yabunaka, S Takayama Article Affiliation: Y Ohtsuka Abstract: The influence of"shinrin-yoku"(forest-air bathing and walking) on blood glucose levels in diabetic patients was examined. Eighty-seven (29 male and 58 female) non-insulin-dependent diabetic patients [61 (SEM 1) years old] participated in the present study. Shinrin-yoku was performed nine times over a period of 6 years. The patients were divided into two parties. They then walked in the forest for 3 km or 6 km according to their physical ability and/or the existence of diabetic complications. The mean blood glucose level after forest walking changed from 179 (SEM 4) mg.100 ml-1 to 108 (SEM 2) mg.100 ml-1 (P<0.0001). The level of glycated haemoglobin A1c also decreased from 6.9 (SEM 0.2)% (before the first shinrin-yoku) to 6.5 (SEM 0.1)% (after the last shinrin-yoku; P<0.05). Blood glucose values declined by 74 (SEM 9) mg.100 ml-1 and 70 (SEM 4) mg.100 ml-1 after short- and long-distance walking respectively. There was no significant difference between these values. Since the forest environment causes changes in hormonal secretion and autonomic nervous functions, it is presumed that, in addition to the increased calorie consumption and improved insulin sensitivity, walking in a forest environment has other beneficial effects in decreasing blood glucose levels. Article Published Date : Jan 31, 1998