EduAsiaNews, Bogor – Amid growing pressures associated with urban living and the escalating threat of the triple planetary crisis—climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental pollution—forests are increasingly recognized as serving a far broader role than simply functioning as green spaces.
According to Prof. Siti Badriyah Rushayati, Professor at IPB University, forests not only act as carbon sinks and guardians of ecosystems but also contribute directly to human health through the concept of healing forests, also known as forest therapy.
The Health Benefits of Healing Forests Through Phytoncides
Prof. Siti explained that forests provide environmental services that extend beyond supporting climate resilience and ecosystem sustainability. A growing body of scientific evidence indicates that exposure to forest environments offers significant benefits for both physical and mental well-being.
“Exposure to forest air can enhance the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, which play an important role in combating infections and cancer cells. In addition, forest therapy has been shown to reduce stress levels and improve mental health,” she said during her inaugural professorial scientific lecture at IPB University on Saturday (June 27).
These health benefits are largely attributed to phytoncides—natural volatile organic compounds produced by plants as a defense mechanism against microorganisms, insects, and environmental stressors. For humans, these compounds provide a variety of health-promoting effects.
“Phytoncides possess antioxidant properties that help protect the body’s cells from damage caused by free radicals. Regular exposure to these compounds may also help lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and improve overall mental well-being,” she explained.
However, Prof. Siti emphasized that healing forest activities cannot be conducted indiscriminately. Suitable locations must meet several essential criteria, including low noise levels, good air quality, safe terrain, and an environment capable of fostering relaxation and tranquility.
“In a healing forest, all five senses should be able to connect with nature. If noise levels are too high, the relaxation process cannot be achieved optimally,” she noted.
Beyond their health benefits, she also highlighted the considerable economic potential of healing forests through the development of nature-based tourism centered on ecosystem services. One successful example is Ir. H. Djuanda Grand Forest Park (Tahura Djuanda), which offers healing forest tourism packages featuring dedicated forest trails, nature-based therapeutic activities, and guidance from trained facilitators.
“This can become a new source of economic growth while simultaneously raising public awareness of the importance of forest conservation,” she said.
Prof. Siti further stressed that addressing the triple planetary crisis requires a landscape-based approach that includes ecosystem conservation and restoration, the development of urban forests, enhanced pollutant absorption through vegetation, the application of innovative technologies, and active collaboration among multiple stakeholders.
“Climate resilience, ecosystem resilience, and public health can only be achieved when development is aligned with the environmental services provided by forests,” she concluded.
