Phytoncides

GLOSSARY

The antimicrobial volatile organic compounds emitted from plants to defend against decay or attack by herbivores. Inhaling phytoncides through a forest walk (shinrin-yoku) enhances mood and may be beneficial for stress management.

Flat design icon of green leaves sprout with orange berries and shining stars.
Flat design icon of green leaves sprout with orange berries and shining stars.

Reference:

Cheng, W. W., Lin, C. T., Chu, F. H., Chang, S. T., & Wang, S. Y. (2009). Neuropharmacological activities of phytoncide released from Cryptomeria japonica. Journal of Wood Science, 55(1), 27-31. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10086-008-0984-2

Woo, J., & Lee, C. J. (2020). Sleep-enhancing effects of phytoncide via behavioral, electrophysiological, and molecular modeling approaches. Experimental Neurobiology, 29(2), 120. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32408402/