16/06/2026
Did you know that your immunity can get a boost from spending time in the forest? π²
Researchers found that our Natural Killer white blood cells that can identify and fight virus-infected and cancer cells, not only increase in number, but following consecutive visits, they become more active.
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Research by Dr Qing Li found that Natural Killer (NK) cells were 56.1% more active after two consecutive days spent Forest Bathing.
Even more remarkably, this boost wasn't short lived.
30 days later, NK cell activity remained 23% above baseline.
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What's this down to?
Trees release natural airborne compounds called phytoncides to help the trees protect themselves from things like bacteria and termites.
Research identified that when we inhale Phytoncides both the number and activity of our NK cells increase.
This is just one more reminder that there is so much more to spending time amongst the trees than simply getting some fresh air. ππ³
Research papers:
. Li Q et al. 2008. A forest bathing trip increases human natural killer activity and expression of anti-cancer proteins in female subjects.
Li Q. 2010. Effect of forest bathing trips on human immune function.
Li Q 2007. Phytoncides (Wood Essential Oils) Induce Human Natural Killer Cell Activity.
