The Shift Toward Natural Living: Food, Remedies, and Holistic Wellness.

Imagine reclaiming your health using the same herbs and plants that have nourished generations. On my podcast, KhadiYah of Yah’s Apothecary shares how she transitioned to a nature-based lifestyle.

In a conversation with KhadiYah Preciado, the founder of Yah’s Apothecary, the potential of natural healing methods rooted in African herbalism came to the forefront. Preciado’s journey is not only a personal testament to the power of plants but also reflects the growing trend toward incorporating natural remedies and whole foods into everyday life. As people move away from synthetic solutions, there is an increasing desire to return to the basics—using natural, plant-based products to nourish both the body and mind.

One of the major shifts people are making today is the integration of natural methods not just in their diets but in their entire lifestyle. This movement embraces a more holistic approach to health, recognising that what we put into and onto our bodies impacts overall well-being. Preciado highlights this shift in our conversation. When she left home for college, she found herself having to take charge of her own health and personal care. It was at this time that she decided to go all-natural. “I went natural with my hair, then I went natural with my skin,” she shared. “And naturally, I started caring more about what was going on inside of me.” This shift towards a holistic approach inspired her to practise African herbalism, where she found powerful plant-based solutions for the health issues she had struggled with for years.

Many people are adopting plant-based diets as a way to maintain long-term wellness. Research supports the idea that diets rich in whole foods and natural ingredients provide numerous health benefits. According to a 2021 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, plant-based diets high in fibre help regulate gut health, lower cardiovascular risks, and improve blood sugar levels. This approach to nutrition aligns with Preciado’s belief in holistic healing, which emphasises treating the whole person rather than just addressing symptoms.

Sports nutritionist at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital and certified diabetes educator, Pooja Udeshi, also stresses the importance of a natural, whole-food diet. "Plant-based diets are high in fibre that help in keeping the gut health in check, along with a host of other benefits like reducing cardiovascular risks and improving blood sugar levels," she notes. This connection between natural nutrition and overall health mirrors what Preciado has discovered through her herbal practice—natural remedies and food choices can prevent many modern ailments when used proactively.

The incorporation of herbs and natural remedies is another key element in today’s health movement. Many people are turning to time-tested plants to boost their immunity, improve digestion, and enhance overall well-being.

Udeshi highlights turmeric as one such powerful tool: "Curcumin from turmeric is very good for boosting immunity if paired with black pepper that can improve its function." Turmeric, along with herbs like holy basil and cinnamon, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to protect and heal the body.

Preciado’s journey into African herbalism demonstrates how deeply connected food and herbs can be to our health. For instance, she regularly emphasises the benefits of okra, a plant with significant medicinal value in African traditions. Used primarily in the kitchen, okra is a vegetable I once avoided after having it too often. However, I now recognise its benefits beyond just nutrition. Not only is it rich in nutrients, but it also boasts moisturising and healing properties, making it valuable for skincare as well as overall wellness. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology supports this, showing that okra has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for both internal and external health.

Herbs like okra, turmeric, and nettle are becoming staples in natural health routines, particularly as more people recognise their ability to address a range of issues without harmful side effects. Natural remedies also promote preventative care, another pillar of holistic wellness. Preciado believes in the power of adaptogens—herbs that help the body adapt to stress and maintain balance. Adaptogens like ashwagandha, which is known for its stress-relieving properties, have been used for centuries to support overall health and are gaining mainstream popularity today.

As the global wellness community increasingly turns toward plant-based solutions, modern research is beginning to catch up with what traditional practices have long known. A 2021 review in Frontiers in Pharmacology pointed out that many African herbs have the potential to treat a wide variety of modern diseases. This emerging research highlights the validity of these natural solutions in treating both acute and chronic conditions.

For those looking to transition to a more natural approach, the key is consistency.  As Preciado’s own journey shows, even small changes—like opting for natural skincare or including herbs like nettle and turmeric in meals—can make a significant difference. Adding to that, Udeshi says, “a natural and holistic approach is cleaner and easier on the system." By integrating whole foods, herbs, and mindful practices into daily routines, we can build a lifestyle that promotes not just physical health, but a more balanced and connected way of living.