Around the world, people are awakening to the idea of natural medicine as a legitimate alternative to pharmaceutical interventions. So much, so that the complementary and alternative medicine industry’s expected to reach a net worth of $ 404 billion by 2028. 

Is it all a money-making racket? Is there some truth in the belief that there are natural cures for everything? Let’s find out.

Natural Medicine Is an Ancient Art

For as long as man and plants have inhabited the Earth together, we’ve used botanical solutions for all that ails us. Archaeologists have discovered fossilized remnants of medicinal plants, like opium poppies, cannabis, and ephedra, in sites up to 60,000 years old.

The ancient people passed information about herbal medicine from generation to generation and spread this knowledge as they traveled the globe.

For instance, the echinacea plant, which is native to North America, was one of the Plains Indians’ favorite remedies for immune stimulation. It also surfaced as a preventive measure for colds and flu in Europe during the 1895s. 

Today, echinacea’s still considered one of the best botanical supplements for preventing colds. 

Is there any scientific proof in favor of these natural remedies? You bet there is.

Science-Backed Alternative Medicine

Scientists, being naturally curious, have always tried to get to the bottom of these mysterious natural cures. In the process, they’ve unearthed some interesting facts about our favorite home remedies. 

Turmeric

Studies show that the curcumin contained in turmeric is at least as effective as diclofenac sodium and ibuprofen when used as an anti-inflammatory agent. 

Unfortunately, turmeric doesn’t contain enough curcumin to produce dramatic results, although as little as 3g of the spice may provide some relief. As long as you add some black pepper to aid absorption.

Lavender

You can’t help but feel better when surrounded by the lovely aroma of lavender, but there’s more to it than a calming scent.

Studies show that this powerful herb can help cure ailments like migraines, PMS symptoms, and mental anxiety. You can get your daily dose in the form of a tea or essential oil, or you can inhale the soft fragrance to help you relax. 

Another study suggests that lavender may work effectively against anti-fungal resistant conditions too. 

Chili Peppers

Capsaicin’s the culprit behind the spicy tang of these fruits and it’s also the active ingredient that can help numb pain.

Have you ever noticed that your tongue goes numb after over-indulging in chili spice? It has the same effect when applied to the skin in a cream.

Always wear gloves when working with capsaicin cream and never apply it anywhere near your eyes. 

More on Medicines

The FDA regards supplements as food, not drugs, so they aren’t subject to the same labeling conventions as medicines.

So, beware when using natural remedies in conjunction with pharmaceuticals. The two substances may react adversely with one another.

When in doubt, it’s always best to chat with your doctor or a natural medicine practitioner. 

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