ScienceJuly 24, 2026

phytoncides

FY-tuhn-sahydz

Definition

Airborne organic compounds, specifically antimicrobial substances, emitted by trees and plants to protect themselves from insects and decay, which humans may inhale when in nature.

Etymology

The term is a combination of the Greek 'phyton' meaning plant and the Latin 'caedere' meaning to kill, reflecting the chemical's role in killing or repelling pathogens.

In the news

In the article, the term is used to explain a potential biological mechanism for why spending time in nature—specifically forests—promotes better physical health in humans.

The government canceled this nature study. Scientists finished it anyway.

Read the full article ↗

Yale Climate Connections

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