Do Natural, Plant-Based Products Really Work?


Since time immemorial, natural products have been the backbone of the traditional system of healing throughout the globe, and have also been an integral part of history and culture. The use of bioactive natural products as herbal drug preparations dates back hundreds even thousands of years.

Herbal therapy is a holistic therapy, integrating emotional, mental and spiritual levels. Lifestyle, emotional, mental and spiritual considerations are part of any naturopathic approach, and one that Sacred Body Botanicals embraces.

Let’s take a look at some plant-based products you might be familiar with.

  • Aspirin: A compound called salicin occurs naturally in willow bark, thereby explaining the use of the bark as a medication for pain since the time of Hippocrates. Since salicin is very irritating to the stomach, the Bayer company synthesized acetylsalicylic acid in 1898. Willow bark is still used in herbal medicine today.

  • Camphor, from the Camphor Tree: Rheumatic pain relief.

  • Pseudoephedrine: First known as a natural substance that occurs in shrubs of the Ephedra genus. Nasal & sinus congestion, respiratory allergies, ear congestion.

  • Morphine and Codeine: Opium poppies for pain relief.  (MERCK 1826)

  • Dogixin: from foxglove.  Used to treat congestive heart failure.

  • Aloe Vera: Heals wounds and burns, treats intestinal issues, many anti-inflammatory uses.

  • Honey: Antibacterial
  • Peppermint: is promoted for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), other digestive problems, the common cold, sinus infections, headaches, and other conditions.
  • Cranberry: Urinary tract infections

  • Quinine: from the bark of the Cinchona Tree, used to treat Malaria.

  • Marijuana: Cannabis plant. Cannabis is commonly used as a recreational drug. People also use cannabis for multiple sclerosis (MS) and nerve pain. It is also used for nausea, vomiting, migraine, and many other conditions.

  • Caffeine: Caffeine is naturally found in the fruit, leaves, and beans of coffee, cacao, and guarana plants. It is classified as a drug that stimulates your brain and nervous system. Caffeine is found in many drinks such as coffee, tea, soft drinks and energy drinks.