A Systematic Review of Botanical Gardens Towards Eco Restoration and Connectedness to Nature for Psychological Restoration

Abstract

A botanical garden can potentially mitigate psychological and mental health problems accompanying psychological restoration via a range of eco-restoration benefits and connectedness to natural factors. However, the extent to how the botanical garden provides ecorestoration related to connectedness remained unclear. This study furnishes a review of 25 botanical garden articles, investigating: (i) research locations, (ii) eco-restoration benefits, (iii) connectedness to natural factors, and (iv) psychological restoration effects. Researchers published 25 journals from diverse disciplines, including agriculture & biology science, environmental science, multidisciplinary, psychology, and social sciences. Results showed that 42% of the studies were administered in Europe, 18% in Malaysia and 40% in other countries. Demonstrated eco-restoration benefits include: preserving wildlife habitat and increasing vegetation cover, protecting biodiversity loss, and providing more functional space for people benefits; demonstrated connectedness to natural factors include: engagement with nature, natural qualities, and human sense. Demonstrated psychological restoration effects include: promoting individual well-being and restoration of attention capacities. Further research is pertinent to inform more on the actual extent of specific psychological restoration effects, including mental health issues associated with a botanical garden.