The psychological effects of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) wood scent, virtual wooden walls, and their combined stimuli on humans

Abstract

Wood construction uses forest biomass effectively and stores carbon. As a biophilic material, wood provides wellbeing benefits; however, its sensory properties, particularly those of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), one of the most commonly used wood species in construction, remain under-researched. A study involving 50 participants examined the effects of wood scent and visual stimuli on wellbeing. Participants visited a control room and rooms featuring scent, virtual walls, or both, completing tests and questionnaires. The results indicated that virtual walls combined with wood scent significantly reduced stress and enhanced restoration, with a mean Restoration Outcome Scale (ROS) score 0.47 points higher than the control and 0.30 points higher than with scent alone. There is a 96 % and 92 % confidence that ROS values are greater with both stimuli. While no significant difference was found between single stimuli, there is a 92 % certainty that ROS is higher with virtual walls compared to the control. These findings suggest that wooden virtual environments and wood scent could support cognitive training and emotional regulation. However, further research is needed to explore long-term effects and optimal stimulus levels.