For years, humankind has often relied on the healing power of plants to help nourish and fuel our bodies. Medicinal plants have a long history in assisting the health and wellbeing of humanity across all cultures. The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, conservatively estimated that out of 30,000 plants documented, 17,810 plant species have a potential medicinal use.
Indigenous cultures from around the globe have experimented with herbal and plant-based medicine in an effort to assist sickness and disease. The knowledge acquired through ‘trial and error’ has been passed down through generations. In some ways, people have been participating in clinical trials with the experimentation of plants since the dawn of time. So, why as a society did we move away from exploring the potential therapeutic benefits of plants?
The Friction between Plant and Conventional Medicine
Conventional or western medicine is an approach based on the principal of managing and treating disease with scientific and evidence-based research – which suggests the use of drugs and surgery as effective methods in treating conditions. Over the past century, traditional methods have taken a back seat as medical science and technology has advanced.
The use of alternative medicine has raised the eyebrows of many practitioners due to the lack of scientific research in comparison to modern medicine. Plant medicine has previously been based on experiences and instinct, although this is changing as more research is conducted. In addition, economic and political influences have led to the decline in the use of traditional plant medicine in many developed countries.
The Resurgence of Medicinal Plants
Medicinal plants are an ancient form of healing and are now part of a rising movement to restore these practices. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), over 80% of the world’s population use a variety of plants to assist with basic healthcare needs. A growing dissatisfaction with the long-term side effects and addictive nature often associated with modern medicine has influenced people to seek alternative therapies. Influencing the change is the thought that conventional medicine does not facilitate holistic care like many desire, encompassing emotional, mental and physical wellness. A holistic approach to patient care and wellbeing has several perceived benefits, such as
- May be effective for treating a wide range of chronic conditions
- Mostly safe with limited side-effects
- Cost-effective and easily accessed
- A growing industry with investment in further research and development
Alternative Medicine at CDA Clinics
CDA Clinics helps to empower people suffering from chronic illnesses to manage the symptoms of their condition and take back control of their health. Their team of registered doctors and nurses have provided tailored and affordable plant medicine consultations to thousands of eligible patients across Australia since 2018.
Offering Telehealth consultations, CDA Clinics provides alternative medicine consultations Australia wide. Discover if you are eligible by completing our online test.
By becoming a CDA Clinics patient, you will be supported throughout your journey by a team of highly trained doctors and nurses in plant-based therapy who can provide ongoing education and personalised treatment.
Disclaimer: This is not intended to be used as medical advice or a substitute for your own practitioner’s advice, nor is it intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment for any illness/disease. CDA Clinics & associated parties are not liable for any injury, loss or damage incurred by use of/reliance on information provided.