Why use natural medicine

As the Founder and CEO of Feelgood Health, one of the biggest suppliers of natural medicines in South Africa, I am a passionate advocate for natural medicines and therapies that have been used for centuries to support the body's innate healing abilities. Not only do herbal and homeopathic medicines have centuries of empirical evidence as to their safety and effectiveness, but more recent research has, in many cases, provided scientific proof that natural medicines can play a vital role in health care, often offering gentle, yet effective relief, without the side effects often associated with allopathic medicine.

Here are some compelling reasons to consider natural medicines as a valuable part of healthcare:

Holistic Approach: Natural medicines embrace a holistic approach to health, recognizing the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit. They aim to address the root causes of illness rather than merely treating symptoms. By considering the whole person, natural medicines support overall well-being and long-term health.

Gentle and Non-Toxic: Many natural medicines are derived from plants, herbs, and other natural sources, making them gentle and generally well-tolerated by the body. They often have fewer side effects compared to synthetic drugs, reducing the risk of adverse reactions and harm to the body's organs.

Individualized Treatment: Natural medicines emphasize individualized treatment plans tailored to each person's unique needs. This personalized approach takes into account a person's physical, mental, and emotional state, as well as their lifestyle, diet, and environmental factors. By addressing the specific needs of each individual, natural medicines can promote better outcomes.

Supportive of the Body's Healing Process: Rather than suppressing symptoms, natural medicines work to support and enhance the body's own healing processes. They can stimulate the immune system, improve circulation, support detoxification, and restore balance within the body. By empowering the body to heal itself, natural medicines promote long-term health and vitality.

Wide Range of Therapies: Natural medicines encompass a wide range of therapies, including herbal medicine, homeopathy, nutrition, acupuncture, and lifestyle modifications. This diversity allows naturopaths to tailor treatment plans to suit the unique needs of each patient. It also provides individuals with various options to choose from, ensuring a comprehensive and integrative approach to healthcare.

Prevention and Wellness: Natural medicines emphasize the importance of prevention and maintaining optimal health. By addressing imbalances and supporting overall well-being, natural medicines can help prevent the development of chronic diseases and promote longevity. They focus on empowering individuals to make informed choices about their health and adopt lifestyle practices that promote wellness.

Complementary to Conventional Medicine: Natural medicines can work alongside conventional medicine to provide a complementary approach to healthcare. They can be used as adjunct therapies to enhance the effectiveness of conventional treatments or to manage side effects. Integrating natural medicines with conventional medicine can offer a more comprehensive and holistic approach to patient care. Because many natural medicines are available over the counter, they can often be the first choice of treatment, empowering people to help themselves and relieving the burden on medical facilities. It must be emphasised that, like all medicines, natural medicines must be used responsibly and people should always consult their health professional should there be no relief.

As the Founder of Feelgood Health, and a Clinical Psychologist, I have always placed great emphasis on the healing process and firmly believe that medical professionals of all kinds should first be healers – meaning that the choice of medicine should not be restricted to conventional, chemical based drugs, but include what is best for the patient, following the principle of ‘Do no Harm’. Easily accessible natural medicines, sourced from a reputable and trusted company, can play an important role in holistic health care.