San Gimignano prison launches phytotherapy laboratory for inmate rehabilitation

A phytotherapy laboratory has commenced operations at the Ranza House of Detention in San Gimignano, Tuscany. Supported by the energy company Estra, the project aims to facilitate prisoner reintegration through agricultural training and the processing of medicinal plants.

The initiative, which began with the establishment of an herbal garden and orchard, includes the cultivation of approximately 200 medicinal plants such as yarrow, wormwood, helichrysum, lavender, melissa, and oregano. Additionally, 100 plants of sea buckthorn and blackcurrant have been planted in the orchard.

Managed in collaboration with the Italian Phytotherapy Society, the program teaches participants the full cycle of plant production, from cultivation to the initial processing of essential oils. The project is part of the ‘OrtoFrutteto Solidale Diffuso’ campaign by AzzeroCO2 and Legambiente, focusing on providing inmates with professional skills that can be utilized after their sentences are served.