How Is Gardening Therapeutic?

Gardening is now being used in schools, medical treatment centers, homes for troubled persons, and detention centers all over the world as a form of psychological therapy. Gardening has been recognized by behavioral scientists to be so beneficial that it is now being called horticultural therapy. It calms the nerves, soothes anxiety, and relieves fears.


This reaction is no doubt due to several factors:
• Exposure to the outside, nature, fresh air, and sunshine.
• Watching things grow.
• Participating in the propagation of life.
• Gardening is also a great form of exercise.
• You get to enjoy the fruits of your labors.


There are also pheromones in organic soil and compost which are released while you are gardening. These airborne chemicals are capable of impacting your behavior by stimulating serotonin which is the happy hormone. Here at Hippocrates Health Institute we teach regular “hands-on” classes on Organic Gardening.

From the HHI Kitchen: Olive Tapenade

1 Bunch Parsley
3 C. Green Olives
2 C. Black Olives
1/8 Tsp. Red Crushed Pepper Flakes
3 Oz. Lemon Juice
6-8 Cloves of Garlic

1. In a food processor, chop lemon, garlic, and parsley.
2. Add olives and plse.
3. Toss red crushed pepper flakes to taste and serve