Horticultural Therapy through Vṛkṣāyurveda: Ancient Cultural Pathways for Mental Health, Community Well-being, and Sustainable Development

The global burden of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and social isolation, underscores the urgent need for interventions that are both accessible and culturally resonant. Contemporary research on horticultural therapy (HT) demonstrates the psychological, social, and ecological benefits of gardening and green spaces, aligning with global health priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Yet, the therapeutic role of plants and gardens is not a modern discovery, but a theme embedded in traditional knowledge systems. This paper presents a conceptual analysis of Vṛkṣāyurveda, the classical Indian “science of trees,” as articulated in Varāhamihira’s Bṛhat Saṃhitā (6th century CE) and Surapāla’s Vṛkṣāyurveda (10th–11th century CE). Through thematic interpretation, three domains were identified: spatial context (placement of trees near water bodies, temples, and communal spaces), sensory context (fragrance, flowers, and aesthetic qualities), and community context (planting as a collective and ethical act). These domains resonate with contemporary HT practices, such as therapeutic landscapes, sensory gardens, and community planting initiatives, which have been shown to promote stress reduction, mood improvement, social inclusion, and ecological resilience. The findings suggest that Vṛkṣāyurveda should be understood not merely as an agronomic manual but as a cultural philosophy of health, integrating ecology, psychology, and community well-being. Reinterpreting these traditions provides valuable insights for culturally grounded approaches to mental health promotion and sustainable community design. While this analysis is conceptual rather than empirical, it highlights pathways for future research that bridge traditional horticultural wisdom with contemporary therapeutic science.