Getting your hands dirty in soil or touching grass trees and moss may do more than connect people with nature. Research suggests regular contact with materials could help increase the diversity of microbes living on the skin and potentially support immune function.
In an experiment led by Finnish researcher Mira Grönroos participants rubbed their hands with soil, peat and moss for 20 seconds. Researchers found increased abundance and variety of skin microbes even after participants rinsed their hands with tap water.
A diverse community of microorganisms can help keep harmful bacteria in check. Other research involving children has produced findings. At daycare centres in Finland children who regularly played in environments enriched with forest soil and natural materials developed microbial diversity on their skin than children playing mainly on paved surfaces.
Researchers are also investigating whether these changes influence the system. Studies have reported changes in markers associated with immunoregulation among children exposed to more diverse environmental microbes.
Scientists caution that research in this area is still developing. However the findings add to evidence that regular interaction with environments may have health benefits.
Simple activities such as gardening walking through parks playing outdoors or sitting on grass could provide opportunities for contact, with nature and its diverse microbial communities.
