Sequoias © Yvonne Cornell 2013Botanical Inspiration Day #22: The giant sequoia, Sequoiadendron Gigantum, is the biggest tree in the world. In Japan, a forest bathing trip or Shinrin-yoku is a short, leisurely visit to a forest and is regarded as being similar to natural aromatherapy. Forest bathing involves visiting a forest for relaxation and recreation while also breathing in volatile substances, called phytoncides (wood essential oils), which are antimicrobial volatile organic compounds derived from trees. Incorporating forest bathing trips into a good lifestyle was first proposed in 1982 by the Forest Agency of Japan. It has now become a recognized relaxation and stress management activity in Japan. The largest grove of giant sequoias outside of California were planted here in the Benmore Botanic Garden in Scotland.
Photo Courtesy of http://www.monumentaltrees.com/en/content/benmore/