Can Trees Help Prevent Cancer? Exploring the Evidence and Benefits

Multiple studies show how the outdoors positively affects the human population, including how it eases our anxiety and helps us feel relaxed and closer to nature, which allows us to find a larger purpose or meaning. It helps us physically by giving us Vitamin D and lowering our cortisol and adrenaline levels. We get well-needed exercise when we venture out, and it takes us away from digital distractions, helping us connect with others and leading to better relationships. But did you know that both the fresh air and trees around us are improving our lives?

We all understand the importance of trees for our environment. Trees improve air quality, regulate rainwater, give habitat to many animals, and provide shade to our communities. However, studies have shown that breathing fresh air around trees helps your immune system and prevents cancer! But how? Plants, including trees, give off an airborne chemical called phytoncides, which protects them from insects and disease. These phytoncides have antibacterial and antifungal qualities. When people breathe in these chemicals, our bodies respond by increasing the number and activity of a type of white blood cell called natural killer cells or NK, which kill tumor and virus-infected cells. 

The study of how phytoncides affect the human body was done in Japan in 2006, and even though it revealed that phytoncides enhanced human killer cell activity, the U.S. still needs to gather this research on the trees grown here due to the various species. 

However, even if we still have some research to do on the pines, birch, and oak trees here in the United States, research has shown that being around trees can: 

• Reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve mood. 
• Helps you focus
• Can manage attention disorders
• Help you recover from injuries faster

If you need more trees around your home or time to physically and emotionally recover from the stresses of life, grab your bundle, get out and go, and enjoy the beauty of the trees that nature selflessly provides!