Horticulture Therapy as a Complementary Intervention in Palliative Care: A Narrative Review

Palliative care is provided to chronically ill patients to offer symptomatic relief from their disease, but it is not a curative treatment. A range of strategies are employed to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life, among which horticultural therapy has emerged as a possible option. Horticultural therapy has been shown to provide diverse benefits, including creating a calming environment that provides comfort and emotional support for palliative care patients. Patients experience symptom relief and perceived pain reduction through engaging activities that distract from discomfort. Those with mental health disorders also report decreased symptoms after participating in horticulture therapy. It also encourages healthier and proactive lifestyle through physical exercise and a more positive outlook on life, however, participants should be cautious of potential risks, such as dehydration and fatigue. This therapy can result in reduced cortisol and increased serotonin levels, indicating lower stress and improvement of cognitive function. Moreover, horticultural activities enhance social well-being by fostering interactions and strengthening social bonds among participants. Horticultural therapy benefits patients' senses by providing an immersive experience with diverse colors, textures, fragrances, and lush landscapes. Through the interplay of these mechanisms, horticulture therapy holds strong prospect of emerging as valuable addition to palliative care.