Stress seems to be inescapable for many people; whether it’s work, kids, finances, or something else, stress seems to be around us constantly. 

There may be a fix to that. A team of researchers at the University of Colorado have found a link between stress relief and a bacteria called Mycobacterium vaccae which feeds on decaying plant matter in soil. 

Yup, you read that correctly: evidence that dirt can make you happier! Lab studies have shown that M. vaccae can reduce inflammation and protect against stress. 

The researchers “purified and identified a unique anti-inflammatory triglyceride” from the bacterium. It was then tested in the immune cells of mice.

It was found that the fatty acid triglyceride bound to a particular receptor in the immune cell. It then blocked the inflammation and stress-causing molecular pathway in the cell. This then protected the immune cell from the stress and inflammation.

Reduced stress has been linked to healthier skin and hair, longer and more restful sleep, and a longer life expectancy.

More studies need to be done on M. vaccae but there is some hope for its use. Researchers have been speculating the use of a “stress vaccine.” This vaccine would then be administered to those with high-stress occupations such as a soldier or firefighter. This vaccine could then theoretically reduces the possibility of developing PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder.)

Check out the full story here in Medical News Today!