Biophilic Recovery: A Phenomenological Study of Plant-Based Rehabilitation Efficacy at HappyNest Rehabilitation Nook

Abstract

Biophilic recovery has emerged as a transformative therapeutic framework in drug rehabilitation, centering on plant-based therapies, herbal detoxification, and ecological rituals. The study examined the lived experiences of individuals undergoing plant-based rehabilitation at HappyNest Rehabilitation Nook in Masvingo, Zimbabwe. Anchored on a phenomenological case study design, fifteen (15) participants were conveniently and purposively sampled. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews and analysed using thematic analysis. Eight (8) broad themes were laid bare: 1) Biophilia leads to natural restoration. 2) Horticultural therapy fosters mindfulness, emotional regulation, and identity reconstruction. 3) Herbal detoxification and plant intelligence were perceived by participants to promote neurochemical balance and withdrawal symptom relief. 4) Plant-based rehabilitation promotes economic self-reliance, community empowerment, and alignment with Sustainable Development Goals. 5) Phytonutrient and flesh-free diets were associated by participants with emotional regulation and physical recovery. 6) Plant-based rehabilitation reduces stigma to addiction rehabilitation and facilitates spiritual healing. 7) Agrarian routines promote income-generating projects, budgeting skills, and vocational skills post-rehab. 8) Plant-based therapies align with indigenous healing practices and cultural epistemologies. The findings suggest that participants experienced biophilic recovery as a holistic and culturally resonant pathway for rehabilitation, offering a low-cost and non-invasive complement to pharmacological treatments. The research recommends the formal adoption of the Green Recovery Model framework in rehabilitation centers for holistic rehabilitation. However, further clinical and longitudinal studies are required to evaluate the biomedical efficacy and long-term scalability of the model.