GoKawiilFinnish study finds soil contact boosts skin microbe diversity
Ecologist Mira Grönroos of the Finnish Environment Institute had participants rub their hands with soil, peat and moss for 20 seconds. Even after washing with tap water, their skin showed a marked increase in the number and variety of microbes, despite looking visibly clean.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The findings add to growing evidence linking contact with natural environments to a richer, healthier microbiome, which some researchers tie to immune function and overall wellbeing. As urban living reduces everyday exposure to soil and greenery, such research strengthens calls for deliberate outdoor contact as a simple health practice.
- Rubbing hands with soil, peat and moss for 20 seconds significantly boosted microbial diversity
- The effect persisted even after rinsing with tap water
- Visible cleanliness did not reflect the underlying microbial change
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Published there as: “Why getting your hands dirty is good for you”
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