As its name suggests, phytotherapy is the use of plants for preventive or curative purposes. While it has enjoyed a revival in recent years, phytotherapy is actually one of oldest forms of traditional medicine. Indeed Hippocrates, the ‘Father of Medicine’, was extolling its virtues several thousand years ago.
A number of scientific studies have since confirmed the efficacy of phytotherapy and identified powerful phytonutrients such as petasin and isopetasin. These active compounds are found in the plant butterbur (Petasites hybridus) which has antispasmodic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy properties. Perhaps better known are polyphenols such as resveratrol. Found in many fruits including grapes and apples, such polyphenols are also powerful phytonutrients with antioxidant properties and protective effects.
A gentle form of alternative medicine, aromatherapy is considered a sub-category of phytotherapy. It is uniquely based on the use of essential oils extracted from medicinal plants. Obtained by distillation, these essential oils are concentrated liquids containing active principles that are naturally beneficial to health. As they are so highly concentrated, however, they need to be used with caution.
Certain medicinal plants are available in the form of both essential oils and powders, the latter being used primarily in dietary supplements. However, these extracts tend not to share the same characteristics and properties. One such example is cinnamon. Its leaves are distilled to obtain an essential oil with an anti-infection effect, while its bark is ground to a powder for use in various dietary supplements such as Carbo Defense.
You’ve no doubt come across Ayurveda, or Ayurvedic medicine. Recognized as a traditional medicine by the World Health Organisation, it has been used in India for over 5000 years. A gentle form of medicine, it takes a holistic, ‘mind and body’ approach to health and well-being. It is based on the three life forces, or ‘doshas’, called Vata, Pitta and Kapha. According to the founding principles of Ayurveda, an imbalance between these three energies is what leads to the development of disease.
This form of alternative medicine advocates various methods of prevention for maintaining the balance between these doshas, including yoga, Ayurvedic massage and Ayurvedic treatments. The latter are based on medicinal herbs such as gymnema sylvestre and powerful natural remedies such as the legendary detoxifier triphala.
Traditional Chinese medicine is based on a state of harmony between the body’s energy flows. With a tradition of use dating back thousands of years, this ancient form of alternative medicine focuses on maintaining a healthy flow of Qi, which according to Chinese tradition, is the fundamental force that makes up everything in the universe. Any blockage or impairment to Qi means an imbalance in energy flows which is harmful to our health.
In order to maintain or restore the harmony of energy flows, traditional Chinese medicine uses various methods such as acupuncture, massage, energy exercises and medicinal herbs. The Chinese pharmacopoeia is thus one of the richest in the world, featuring many adaptogen plants including ginseng and astragalus, which help improve the body’s ability to withstand certain stress factors and imbalances.
Which foods will we all be eating in 2050 and beyond? Discover how the culinary landscape is likely to change in the decades to come.
Vegetarians and vegans are at risk of certain nutritional deficiencies. Discover which nutrients they could easily be missing out on and the key supplements they should be taking.
Magnesium is an excellent anti-fatigue mineral, also good for the muscles, bones and mood. But which form of magnesium should you choose (orotate, oxide, citrate …) for maximum efficacy?
Organic farming is better for the environment, but is it also better for your health? Exposure to pesticides, nutritional quality, etc.: we give you the lowdown on eating organic.
What are the best sources of plant proteins? Discover what non-animal products to eat, to ensure a good daily intake of protein.
Want to know why pharmacists, naturopaths and nutritionists recommend SuperSmart? Discover, in their own words, what they think and which products are their favorites.