Integrating traditional herbal medicine with mainstream healthcare

To seamlessly fuse herbal medicine into our modern routine, consider how blending traditional remedies with contemporary practices can enrich your approach to health and well-being.

During a recent episode of my podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Yanung Jamoh Lego, a renowned traditional herbal medicine practitioner who was awarded the Padma Shri by the Indian government this year in recognition of her decades of dedicated work.

Aligning with her perspective, data from WHO suggested that more than 80% of the world’s population use some form of traditional medicine, with its prominence increasing in the world of modern science. This growing acceptance highlights a significant shift in how we view and incorporate traditional practices into our daily lives.

Our conversation opened my eyes to how traditional herbal medicine can work hand in hand with modern medicine, offering a harmonious approach to health and wellness. Starting from embracing seasonal eating, which aligns our diet with nature’s rhythms and enhances overall health, and paying attention to key nutrients like iodine, vitamin C, and protein, to leveraging the healing properties of readily available herbs for common ailments, these traditional practices can be a beneficial addition to our daily lives.

The importance of seasonal eating

I am always struck by the extent that diet plays in maintaining good health and wellness. Dr Lego emphasised the importance of seasonal eating, stating, “If you [eat] seasonal fruits and vegetables, I think, you will never suffer. [The body’s] pH balance would be maintained,” she said, adding, “Nature has given us this formula.” It is when the pH balance in the body is upset and, specifically, sees an increase in acid levels that the risk of developing ailments increases. These ailments can range from the common cold and respiratory diseases to cancer. I came across an article from the Integrative Psychiatry Institute that echoed this sentiment, stating, "Eating foods that are in season offers significant nutritional benefits. Plants receive the optimum levels of sunlight, water, and nutrients during their natural growing periods, which means they are richer in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants when harvested at peak ripeness"

The power trio

Dr Lego emphasises on three essential nutrients that should be a part of your diet: iodine from rock salt, tomatoes, and drumsticks; vitamin C from amla and lemons; and protein from various dals (lentils).

Recent insights in Frontiers in Nutrition reveal that iodine plays a crucial role in glucose and lipid metabolism, but it’s important to get the balance right, both too little and too much iodine can cause thyroid problems. Meanwhile, a 2023 study published in the International Journal of Research Publication and Reviews found that amla is effective in treating mild to moderate hyperlipidaemia, heart disease, and even cancer. Plus, amla is easy to find, cost-effective, and offers additional health benefits.

Lentils, a staple in Indian diets from a young age, are not just a traditional food but also a powerhouse of nutrition. Healthline points out that lentils, whether brown, green, yellow, red, or black, are low in calories, packed with iron, folate, and protein, and loaded with polyphenols. These nutrients help reduce several risk factors for heart disease, making lentils a smart and healthy choice.

Nature’s remedies for common ailments

Dr Lego’s remark, “Everything is easy with nature. That’s why animals are not suffering. Human beings are suffering because human beings are anti-nature,” encapsulates the powerful healing potential of nature. Harnessing the power of nature, here are some remedies for common issues you might encounter:

(1) Joint Pains

Scientifically known as entada scandes, a Pyopa’s seed that’s often crushed to a powder, is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe joint pain. Dr Lego recommends “One pinch [of the powder] you have to grind it. Then one pinch on the tongue, and put it inside with water, once a day.

(2) Skin Issues

Neem is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, excellent for treating acne and skin rashes. Neem leaves can be used in a face mask or its oil can be applied directly to affected areas.

(3) Snake and Insect Bites

On my podcast, Dr Lego recalled a wonderful story where she helped her relative relieve a snake bite using herbs like white onion, red ginger, leucas aspera, and kaempferia galanga. Kaempferia galanga have agents known to control immature stages of a mosquito bite.

(4) Asthma

Boswellia also known as frankincense is effective in reducing inflammation in the airways, helping to alleviate asthma symptoms. Taking it in supplement form or inhaling its essential oil can provide relief.

(5) Digestive Issues

Fennel seeds, often enjoyed by several Indians as a mouth freshener, are said to have properties that are great for digestive health, helping to relieve bloating, gas, and indigestion. Chewing on fennel seeds or drinking fennel tea can ease discomfort and promote digestion.