Designing with the Senses: Cultural and Therapeutic Dimensions of Medicinal Plants in Sensory Gardens
Abstract
The main objectives of sensory gardens include fostering therapeutic experiences such as stress reduction and emotional regulation and providing educational opportunities, especially for children and people with sensory integration problems. These spaces are particularly beneficial for people with disabilities, the elderly, children, and neurodiverse individuals, as they provide accessible, stimulating and meaningful contact with nature.
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ARCHITECTURAL SCIENCES AND SUSTAINABLE APPROACHES: URBAN RESILIENCE Editors Prof. Dr. Ömer ATABEYOĞLU Prof. Dr. Ertan DÜZGÜNEŞ October 15, 2025
Copyright © 2025 by İKSAD publishing house All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. Institution of Economic Development and Social Researches (The Licence Number of Publicator: 2014/31220) TÜRKİYE TR: +90 342 606 06 75 USA: +1 631 685 0 853 E mail: [email protected] www.iksadyayinevi.com It is responsibility of the author to abide by the publishing ethics rules. Iksad Publications – 2025© Architectural Sciences and Sustainable Approaches: Urban Resilience ISBN: 978-625-378-337-2 Cover Design: Prof. Dr. Ertan DÜZGÜNEŞ October 15, 2025 Ankara / Türkiye Size = 16x24 cm
PREFACE Dear Professors and Colleagues, We are pleased bring to life that Architectural Sciences and Sustainable Approaches: Urban Resilience, which was published as an e-book by IKSAD Publishing House with the editors Prof. Dr. Ömer ATABEYOĞLU and Prof. Dr. Ertan DÜZGÜNEŞ. This book project, entitled “Architectural Sciences and Sustainable Approaches: Urban Resilience,” aims to address sustainability-oriented approaches to urban resilience from theoretical, methodological, and practical perspectives. The volume seeks to establish a multi-layered platform of discussion, ranging from the scale of individual buildings to the entirety of the urban fabric. Within this framework, it welcomes contributions from scholars and researchers working in architecture, urban design, landscape architecture, urban and regional planning, environmental engineering, and related disciplines. With the valuable contributions of our chapter authors working in the professional disciplines of landscape architecture, architecture, city and regional planning, urban design and sustainability, we have completed Architectural Sciences and Sustainable Approaches: Urban Resilience book study has been completed with 24 book chapters. We would like to thank you,
our esteemed authors, for their contributions to the preparation of the book. We would also like to thank the editorial board and IKSAD Publishing House. We wish to continue this process we have started in the coming years. In addition, we would like to express our sincere appreciation to Prof. Dr. Atila GÜL, the book coordinator of IKSAD Publishing House, for his guidance and support throughout the publication process. We hope that our book ‘Architectural Sciences and Sustainable Approaches: Urban Resilience’ will be helpful to the readers. Best regards. 15.10.2025 EDITORS Prof. Dr. Ömer ATABEYOĞLU Prof. Dr. Ertan DÜZGÜNEŞ
EDITORS Prof. Dr. Ömer ATABEYOĞLU Prof. Dr. Ertan DÜZGÜNEŞ AUTHORS The authors were listed in alphabetical order Alper ÇABUK Ayça GÜLTEN Ayşe ÖZYETGİN ALTUN Ayşe Özge ŞİMŞEK SOYSAL Ayşegül TANRIVERDİ KAYA Demet EROL Deniz DEMİRARSLAN Ebru Vesile ÖCALIR Eda ŞENTÜRK Elif Kübra ÖZTÜRK Emine BAYDAN Esra KESKİN Feran AŞUR Feyza Sena ŞENOCAK Filiz KARAKUŞ Furkan AKDEMİR Gencay ÇUBUK Gülşah BİLGE ÖZTÜRK Halil DUYMUŞ Hamza ALTAŞ
Hande AKARCA İnci OLGUN Kemal Mert ÇUBUKÇU Kumru ÇILGIN Mehmet Akif IRMAK Mehmet Emin DAŞ Mehtap ÖZENEN KAVLAK Merve ALICI AKA Mesut GÜZEL Muhammed Akif AÇIKGÖZ Muhammed Emir GÖRAL Murat YEŞİL Olcay Türkan YURDUGÜZEL Özge DÜZGÜN EREKİNCİ Pervin YEŞİL Rabia Nurefsan ACIKGOZ Sedef ŞENDOĞDU Seher Simay KUŞOĞLU Serim DİNÇ Sevilay YILDIZ Sinem SEYHAN Şevval ERGİNDOĞAN Şuheda ALTUNOK Temuçin Göktürk SEYHAN Tuba Nur OLĞUN Tuna BATUHAN
Ufuk Teoman AKSOY Yusuf Eminoğlu
REVIEWER LIST The authors were listed in alphabetical order Aslıhan TIRNAKÇI Nevşehir Hacı Bektaş Veli University Atila GÜL Süleyman Demirel University Ayşe Kalaycı ÖNAÇ İzmir Katip Çelebi University Bige ŞİMŞEK İLHAN İstanbul Medipol University Burcu YILMAZEL Eskişehir Technical University Eda KOÇAK Siirt University Ekrem BAHADIR Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University Elif KUTAY KARAÇOR İstanbul Technical University Hakan ARSLAN Ondokuz Mayıs University Hilal TURGUT Karadeniz Technical University Meliha AKLIBAŞINDA Nevşehir Hacı Bektaş Veli University Murat AKTEN Süleyman Demirel University Nihan Sümeyye GÜNDOĞDU Atlas University Okan Murat DEDE Amasya University Ömer Lütfü ÇORBACI Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University Selcen Nur Erikci Çelik Beykoz University Sibel AKTEN Isparta Unıversıty Of Applıed Scıences Sinem ÖZDEDE Pamukkale University Şeyma ŞENGÜR Ordu University Turgut KALAY Kütahya Dumlupınar University
Tendü Hilal GÖKTUĞ Aydın Adnan Menderes University
635 1. Introduction In a world characterized by fast-paced urban life and a screen-dominated environment, people are increasingly disconnected from direct, meaningful interactions with nature. Sensory gardens have emerged as an inclusive and restorative design approach that encourages individuals to interact with the environment through the basic senses of sight, hearing, touch, smell and taste, using landscape elements such as carefully selected plants, materials and spatial arrangements (Hussein, 2012). These gardens not only provide esthetic experiences but also have a direct impact on mental and emotional health by activating the neurosensory systems (He et al., 2022a; Tutova et al., 2025). They are therapeutic environments designed to promote cognitive, emotional and physiological well-being. The main objectives of sensory gardens include fostering therapeutic experiences such as stress reduction and emotional regulation and providing educational opportunities, especially for children and people with sensory integration problems. These spaces are particularly beneficial for people with disabilities, the elderly, children, and neurodiverse individuals, as they provide accessible, stimulating and meaningful contact with nature. Sensory gardens serve as environments that offer natural aesthetics while functioning as intricate systems that promote cognitive, emotional, and social well-being. In this context, this study examines the contribution of medicinal plants to sensory landscapes, aiming to inform sustainable and inclusive garden design.
636 2. Approach to Sensory Gardens from the Perspective of Medicinal Plants Sensory gardens were first used in rehabilitation centers to contribute to the healing process of individuals with mental and physical disabilities. Over time, they have become prevalent in public spaces, schools, hospital campuses and even university campuses (Souter-Brown, 2020; Stepansky et al., 2022). The individual effects of sensory gardens include reduced stress, stabilization of mood and increased attention capacity (Ferrentino et al., 2024; Lu et al., 2025). For children, it has the function of supporting the development of motor skills and environmental skills, while for the elderly, it stimulates memory and social interaction (Dudkiewicz et al., 2020; Yusop et al., 2020). Neuroscientific studies also show that sensory stimuli interact with the brain at the neurasthenic level and have effects on memory and mood in the limbic system (Biondi, 2025; Denno et al., 2025). It is of great importance to plan these gardens on the level of accessibility for people with disabilities. Ramp systems, Braille labelling, tactile orientation aids and raised beds can ensure that sensory experiences can be experienced equally by all (Souter-Brown, 2014). The notable examples in Turkey ‘Accessible (Barrier-Free) Garden’ in Bursa Botanical Park as well as international examples The Alnarp Rehabilitation Garden in Sweden, the sensory garden of the Royal National Institute of Blind People in the UK and the Healing Garden at the Singapore Botanical Gardens will be detailed in section 7. All these examples show that sensory gardens are not only spaces that provide natural aesthetics, but also complex systems that support cognitive, emotional and social health.
637 Figure 1. Topic flowchart (Created by the author) Figure 1 shows the topic flowchart of the research used in this study. The aim of this study is to contribute to sustainable and inclusive garden design models by examining the effects of medicinal plants on sensory landscapes, both theoretically and practically. This research uses a literature-based approach, where previous research is critically analyzed to inform the design of inclusive and therapeutic sensory landscapes. The next section explains the definition, historical use, classification and cultural context of medicinal plants and why these plants should be prioritized in sensory gardens. The relationship between aromatic plants
638 and individual olfactory memory is important for creating a healing atmosphere in sensory gardens (Krzeptowska-Moszkowicz et al., 2022). 3. Definition, Classification and Cultural Context of Medicinal Plants Medicinal plants play a unique and versatile role in landscape design. They offer aesthetic appeal, sensory stimulation and therapeutic potential. Unlike ornamental plants, which are chosen primarily for their visual impact, these plants appeal to multiple senses simultaneously through colorful flowers, fragrant essential oils, tactile foliage, edible components and even sounds including the gentle movement of leaves in the breeze and the presence of sound-producing pollinators. These sensory properties make them particularly suitable for use in sensory gardens, where interaction with nature is intentionally designed to promote human wellbeing. Medicinal plants are natural resources that are used to protect, improve or support human health. Thanks to their active chemical constituents, these plants have had an important place in both traditional and modern medicine throughout history (Souter-Brown, 2014). Phytotherapy, or herbal treatment, draws attention not only because of its pharmacological efficacy, but also because of its place in cultural memory. Today, the growing interest in medicinal plants is supported by both ecological sustainability and a low side effect profile (Iommelli et al., 2025; Locqueville et al., 2025; Mykhailenko et al., 2025). The classification of medicinal plants is usually based on their functional effects, pharmaceutical ingredients or aromatic properties. For example, species containing essential oils, such as lavender and lemon balm, are generally known for their sedative and anxiolytic effects, while species such as rosemary and mint exhibit cognitive stimulant and memory
639 supportive effects (Krzeptowska-Moszkowicz & Moszkowicz, 2025a). Some classifications categorize these plants according to their effects on the digestive, respiratory, nervous or immune systems (He et al., 2022a). From a cultural perspective, Anatolian lands are rich in both endemic diversity and historical use. For example, plants such as Origanum vulgare (oregano), Salvia officinalis (sage) and Althaea officinalis (marshmallow flower) have been used for centuries not only in culinary culture but also in folk medicine. This traditional knowledge gives cultural depth and identity to today's sensory landscapes. The use of medicinal plants in sensory gardens not only enhances biodiversity, but is also valuable for reestablishing cultural ties, supporting learning processes and making natural heritage visible. These plants enhance the sensory experience on both a mental and emotional level through their visuality, texture, scent and historical context (Xu et al., 2025). In this context, the selection of medicinal plants should be considered not only as an aesthetic but also as a meaningful and functional design decision. The use of these plants, especially in sensory gardens designed for children, the elderly and various disability groups, produces both pedagogical and therapeutic benefits. Examples such as the anxiety-reducing effect of lavender scent, the mental alertness of mint leaves and the support of cognitive processes by sage allow sensory stimuli to be directly linked to health (Hao et al., 2025). Therefore, the deliberate use of medicinal plants in sensory landscape designs in accordance with the local context is of high value both for the user profile and for environmental sustainability. In this context, the next section will focus on the most used medicinal plant species in sensory
640 gardens and their physiological, psychological and social effects (Wang et al., 2025). 4. Main Medicinal Plants Used in Sensory Gardens At the heart of a successful sensory garden is a carefully considered selection of plants that stimulate one or more senses. The selected species not only appeal to the five senses but also offer scientifically proven health benefits thanks to their bioactive compounds. Furthermore, the medicinal plants used in the sensory gardens are selected both for their aesthetic qualities and for their therapeutic effects, sensory stimulation and cultural context. These plants activate the senses while appealing to the individual's mental and emotional world (Kim & Park, 2025; Xie et al., 2025). In other words, the rich sensory and therapeutic profile of medicinal plants makes them ideal for creating emotionally engaging and health-promoting gardens. When selecting plants, it is helpful to ask how each plant interacts with the senses, which sensory effects align with which user needs and which scientific principles support these interactions. Some examples of medicinal plants the most used in sensory gardens, their scientific names, sensory effects and reasons for use are presented in Table 1. Table 1. Examples of medicinal plants commonly used in sensory gardens (Created by the author) Scientific Name Sensory Impact Reason for Use Lavandula angustifolia L. Smell, Sight, Hearing respiratory tract disorders such as bronchitis (Kayiran et al., 2025), ease strees and anxiety (Karoń et al., 2024) Melissa officinalis L. Smell antidepressant, stress reliever (Priya et al., 2025), supports mood and nerve system (Kera et al., 2024) Calendula officinalis L. Sight promotes skin healing (Deka et al., 2021), antibacterial and anti-inflammatory (Davoudabadi et al., 2023), immune stimulating (Ashwlayan at al., 2018)
641 Rosmarinus officinalis L. Smell, Taste, Touch mental stimulation (Hussain et al., 2022), memory support (Priya et al., 2025; Zhang & Lu, 2025), antiinflammatory (Benincá et al., 2011), antinociceptive (González-Trujano et al.,2007)), neuroprotective (Rahbardar & Hosseinzadeh, 2020) Rosa spp. L. Smell, Sight Anti-tumor activities, atherosclerosis prevention (Pan et al., 2025), symbolic and aesthetic value colorful fragrant flowers (Takahashi et al., 2024) Aloe vera L. Touch soothes burns, skin irritations and heals wounds (Massoud et al., 2023), gastro-protective, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory (Asif et al., 2023), cool, gelfilled leaves Origanum vulgare L. Smell, Taste antioxidant and immune boosting properties (Azimzadeh et al., 2024), anti-inflammatory and prevents cardiovascular diseases (Mojahed & Ghomi, 2024) Salvia officinalis L. Smell, Touch anti-bacterial, cognitive stimulant (Renugaadevi, 2025), digestive support and textured aromatic leaves (Garg & Kumar, 2024), treat pharyngitis (Vaja et al., 2024) Althaea officinalis L. Sight, Touch treats dermatological, respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders (Bahari et al., 2025), throat soothing (Vaja et al., 2024), aesthetic structure (Mahboubi, 2020), Pelargonium graveolens L. Smell, Taste, Sight anxiety reliever, aesthetic colors (Wendin et al., 2023), Uplifting rose-like scent; velvety leaves for tactile engagement (Krzeptowska-Moszkowicz et al., 2025b) Matricaria chamomilla L. Smell, Sight facilitating transition to sleep (Araújo et al., 2025), calming scented flowers for stress relief; visual charm from flowers (Akram et al., 2024) Foeniculum vulgare Mill. Taste, Smell carminative, relaxing for children (Paşayeva, 2022), Stimulates appetite with aroma; fine foliage adds visual delicacy, aromatic smell, feathery foliage, seeds (Zeeshan et al., 2023) Thymus vulgaris L. Smell, Taste anti-septic, immune system support (Shahrajabian & Sun, 2025), cognitive stimulation through aroma and texture with edible aromatic leaves (Silva et al., 2021) Ocimum basilicum L. Smell, Taste attention enhancer, relaxing (Rajput et al., 2025), scented edible leaves, stimulates appetite and clarity; culinary use (Krzeptowska-Moszkowicz et al., 2025b) Urtica dioica L. Touch strengthens the central nervous system and has a detox effect (Chahardehi et al., 2012), stinging hairs on leaves, high nutritional value (Szabo et al., 2023; He et al., 2022b)
642 Mentha spicata L. Smell, Taste, Touch relaxing digestion (Fakhri & Farzaei, 2023), energizing (Singh & Kaushik, 2024), coarse leaves create refreshing smell when rubbed (Naureen et al., 2022) Mentha suaveolens Ehrh. Taste, Smell nausea, bronchitis, flatulence, anorexia, ulcerative colitis, and liver disease (Magdy et al., 2025), invigorating scent and culinary potential; soft to the touch (Aldogman et al., 2022) Lonicera caprifolium L. Sight, Smell treats bacterial and viral infections and inflammation (Gavit et al., 2024), Strong floral fragrance attracts pollinators (Cristina et al., 2024) Dianthus superbus L. Smell anti-viral and anti-cancer effect (Kim et al., 2019), ornate petals and pleasant smell (Zhou et al., 2022) Tilia tomentosa Moench. Smell, Hearing anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-cancer, antianxiety properties (Zhou et al., 2025), rustling leaves, calming aromatic scent and relaxing sound from leaves (Öner & Pouya, 2024) Laurus nobilis L. Smell antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-cholinergic properties (Altın et al., 2025), Aromatic leathery leaves have culinary value (Paparella et al., 2022) Syringa vulgaris L. Smell, Sight anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties (Filipek et al., 2025), Iconic scent for relaxation; seasonal beauty with white or purple flower clusters (Mehdi et al., 2022) Acacia farnesiana L. Smell Yellow fluffy fragrant flowers, used in pharmaceuticals anti-diabetic, anti-ulcer, antispasmodic, anti-diarrheal, anti-rheumatic and antimalarial (Chekchaki et al., 2025) Pinus sylvestris L. Taste, Smell stomach pain, mouth ulcers, and stomach ulcers (Kılıç et al., 2025), Forest-like scent for invigoration and rustling needles adds depth (Kutvonen, 2024) Paulownia tomentosa Steud. Smell, Sight, Hearing coughing, asthma and phlegm, conjunctivitis, dysentery, enteritis, erysipelas, gonorrhea, hemorrhoids, mumps, traumatic hemorrhage, tonsillitis, and lower blood pressure (Nasraoui et al., 2025), large fragrant violet flowers and broad leaves create soothing sounds (Sakr et al., 2022) Hypericum calycinum L. Sight treatment of mild to moderate depression (Szegedi et al., 2005), bright yellow flowers (He et al., 2022) Pistacia palaestina Boiss. Smell treat injuries, tumors, asthma, skin inflammations, stress, and gastrointestinal disorders (Jamhour et al., 2025), fragrant leaves and bark (Pouya et al., 2024) Prunus avium L. Taste, Sight antioxidant and anti-Inflammatory properties (Frusciante et al., 2025), blossoms and edible red fruits (Ak & Güneş, 2023)
643 Acer palmatum Thumb. Sight anti-hyperglycemic and antioxidant properties (Zhang et al., 2016), seasonal color variation of leaves and textural contrast (Wang et al., 2022) Phyllostachys nigra Lodd. ex Lindl. Hearing, Sight anti-oxidation, antidiabetic, cardiovascular, antiinflammatory, antihypertensive (Santosh et al.,2021) produces calming and rhythmic sounds, associated with tranquility and resilience in some cultures (Nnedinma et al., 2025) Cortaderia selloana Schult. Hearing, Sight, Touch creates soothing natural sounds (Pla, 2020), soft and fluffy plumes with fountain-like form add vertical structure and visual movement (Leão, 2008) Stachys byzantina K. Koch. Touch silky and fuzzy leaves, calming and tactile comfort (Kim & Park, 2025), anti-inflammatory, antibacterial (Lima et al., 2024) Helianthus annuus L. Taste, Sight, Hearing, Touch Attractive large bright color flowers, fuzzy stems and rough leaves give unique texture (Awuchi & Morya, 2023), attract birds, nutritious seeds (Kajal et al., 2025) Allium cepa L. Hearing, Taste (Kianian et al., 2021) seeds heads create clicking tones, attract pollinators (Saleh et al., 2021) The plants listed above are widely preferred in sensory gardens, not only because of their physiological effects, but also because they stimulate sensory memory and deepen individual experiences. In addition to creating visual contrast, these plants support emotional balance through aromatic interactions. Improved attention in children, memory stimulation in the elderly, and relaxation in anxiety patients are examples where the therapeutic effects of such plants have been observed in practice (Krzeptowska-Moszkowicz et al., 2022). Designing sensory gardens with medicinal plants requires careful consideration of how each plant engages the five human senses to create a cohesive, inclusive, and therapeutic landscape experience. The visual sense is stimulated by color contrasts, the structure of the foliage and flowering patterns bold pigments such as chlorophyll, carotenoids and anthocyanins add to the appeal of species such as Calendula officinalis
644 (pot marigold) and Lavandula angustifolia (lavender), which range from calming pastel shades to bright, attention-grabbing hues. The sense of smell taps into emotional memory through essential oils in plants such as Lavandula angustifolia (lavender), Mentha spicata (mint) and Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary), whose compounds are linalool, cineole have both medicinal and mood-enhancing properties. The sense of touch is about interacting with surface textures — the soft leaves of Stachys byzantina (lamb’s ear) are pleasing to the user, while the rough stems of Lavandula angustifolia (lavender) and Salvia officinalis (sage) provide a contrast that requires careful selection, especially in inclusive gardens. Through the sense of taste, edible medicinal plants such as Ocimum basilicum (basil), Thymus vulgaris (thyme) and Mentha suaveolens (apple mint/ woolly mint) offer flavor and digestive properties that accentuate both taste and well-being. Finally, the sense of hearing is awakened by the rustling of Mischanthus sinensis (eulalia grass) or Phylllostachys nigra (black bamboo) and the presence of wildlife such as birds and bees, which are encouraged by plants such as Pennisetum alopecuroides (fountain grass), Cortaderia selloana (pampas grass) or Helianthus annuus (sunflowers). Successful sensory gardens rely on thoughtful plant selection that considers multi-sensory value, safety, seasonal rhythm and accessibility to create a space that is as inclusive as it is stimulating. 5. Design Principles of Sensory Gardens The design principles of sensory gardens provide a crucial framework that connects the theoretical classification of plants with their practical application in built projects. To plan sensory gardens effectively, a multidimensional design approach is required that is both appropriate to
651 presented, followed by a discussion of example plants, design principles and the effects of these systems on individuals. Chapter 6 demonstrates how this theoretical knowledge is translated into practice through national and international applications. Both rehabilitation centers in Sweden and barrier-free gardens in Turkey prove that sensory landscapes can be effectively applied in different cultural and geographical contexts. In line with these findings, several key recommendations can be offered: 1. The use of medicinal plants in sensory gardens should be guided not only by traditional knowledge but also by scientific data based on phytochemical analysis. 2. Sensory gardens should not only be used in rehabilitation centers but also in school gardens, rehabilitation centers, mental health institutions, elderly care homes and public spaces where immersive natural experiences can benefit all users. 3. The selection of plants that are compatible with the local flora and sustainable maintenance systems will ensure the longevity and effectiveness of these gardens. The deliberate integration of medicinal plants into sensory gardens should support a multi-layered, holistic design approach that bridges aesthetic experience with health-centered landscape design. 4. To design emotionally engaging and health-promoting spaces that can heal, stimulate and inspire, it should be clarified how each plant interacts with the senses, which sensory effects correspond to which user needs. 5. Multidisciplinary approaches (landscape architects, psychologists, botanists, therapists) should be integrated into the design process.
652 In conclusion, sensory gardens allow individuals to reconnect with nature while providing an environmental experience that supports health by activating medicinal plants through multiple senses. As such, they are both a tool for urban health policy and a practical example of sustainable landscape design.
653 Acknowledgements and Information Note Ethics Committee approval was not required for the study. Author Contribution and Conflict of Interest Declaration Information All authors contributed equally to the article. There is no conflict of interest.
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