‘Holistic wellness’ is a concept that’s been around for centuries, dating back to ancient times. Healers focus on the ‘four pillars’ of holistic health: nutrition, exercise, mental well-being and social connection, believing that only when the ‘whole person’ is nourished in these areas can ‘full’ health be achieved; any imbalance could lead to illness.
The foundation of holistic wellness lies in an acknowledgement that the body is proficient at healing itself, therefore medicines or remedies should encourage self-healing to support health, rather than as an intervention post-illness. ‘Holistic healing practices’ use only natural ingredients. If required, many remedies can be used as an alternative to, or in conjunction with, conventional medicines.
When we think about our ‘sense of self’, it’s often described as made up of the following elements: mind, body and soul. To nourish these parts of our ‘selves’ it’s important to take time to give each area full attention. In modern-day fast paced lifestyles, it’s easy to neglect self-care in an urgency to tick projects off our to-do lists, but the results of stress and burnout can be devastating to both physical and mental health.
“According to Complementary Medicines Australia, more than 70% of Australians use complementary medicines and natural therapies.”
(IBIS World)
Nourishment can come in a variety of forms, from physical to emotional, spiritual, intellectual and even social influences. In holistic wellness, focus is placed upon movement and exercise, as well as a healthy, nutrient-rich diet and a deep connection with community. When used regularly, the natural healing properties of medicinal plants have the ability to support the body in fighting off illness, promoting long-term good health.
Superlative Supplements
Ayuna have been treating clients for a wide range of ailments using Ayurvedic methods. Using expertly researched natural supplements as an alternative, or as a combined support alongside traditional pharmacology, Ayuna’s products come in a variety of forms. Their range of Ayurvedic herbal oils aim to treat symptoms of arthritis, neuromuscular inflammation, poor circulation and much more. Meanwhile, nutrient-rich hair oils target sleep-related issues, as well as hair loss and dandruff.
Herbal capsules taken regularly have been seen to help with a multitude of conditions. Ingredients within Ayuna’s products include: Shatavari, derived from a species of asparagus, aiming to promote digestion and support the female reproductive system; Guduchi used to balance healthy blood sugar levels, inflammation and offer immune system support; Sitopaladi for soothing coughs and promoting respiratory health.
Ayuna was founded to align with the key principles of Ayurveda, proclaiming that “the main objective of Ayurvedic Medicine is to lead a happy and healthy life, and age gracefully, free from the burden of disease.” Their belief is that the body maintains peak health levels when the three vital ‘Doshas’ (controlling the physical and psychological functions in the body) are nourished and balanced.
“Ayurveda always aims to keep the equilibrium in all the parameters by following a healthy life style alongside healthy eating and exercise,” say the experts at Ayuna. Their extensive product range was developed to offer the body a natural support system, to work as a preventative measure against disease before it strikes.
Find out more about Ayuna’s intricate range of products at stand B30.
It’s important to acknowledge that while Ayurvedic medicine is a recognised global practice, with strong evidence and support of its effectiveness, you should “always check with your doctor before starting complementary therapies and never stop taking your conventional medicine or alter the dose without the knowledge and approval of your doctor” (Department of Health, Victoria State Government).
The Power of Plants
The founders of Planta, whose active outdoor lifestyle relied upon support from nutrient-rich sustenance, went on to share the secret of their wellbeing to the rest of the world. Opening a humble food truck known as ‘Holy Guacamole’, the Austrian and Australian duo wanted to offer more than a tasty meal. A dining ‘experience’, serving up nourishment with a beachside vibe was to become much more, offering customers something good for the soul as well as energising and refreshing.
Then they had their ‘eureka moment’, recalling a certain beverage they had brewed for themselves over the years: Yerba Mate (pronounced ‘Maa-tay’). Native to South America, Yerba Mate is a leaf that, when dried, chopped and ground into a powder (known as “yerba”) becomes a superfood when steeped in water to create a tea rich in nutrients.
For centuries people in South America drank it to boost mental and physical stamina. It is naturally caffeinated (equivalent to a strong cup of black tea) and low in sugar. For these tribes, Yerba Mate was a way of life, a symbol of friendship, traditionally sipped from a hollow gourd (known as a “mate”) and enjoyed with friends.
Keen to share yet reshape the ancient ritual for a modern clientele, the team at Planta developed a recipe whereby the tea was brewed, then carbonated and infused with delicious natural ingredients. “Planta was born in a whirlwind of salt spray, botanicals and hard work,” they say. “Once carbonated and chilled, the resulting infusions were simultaneously energising, unique and delicious.”
Combinations such as passionfruit, nectarine, blood orange and lime have been carefully chosen to complement the unique ‘grassy, earthy, smokey’ flavours of Yerba Mate. Planta’s unique sparkling beverage became the perfect accompaniment to fuel an active healthy lifestyle.
Sample Planta’s diverse range of bubbly brews by stopping past their stand at location SU11.
Relax and Unwind
One of the biggest epidemics affecting the modern-day population is that of stress and anxiety. A report released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics revealed that:
“In 2020–2022, more than one in six Australians (17.2% or 3.4 million people) aged 16–85 years had a 12-month anxiety disorder.”
With no simple fix or one-stop remedy to alleviate symptoms, the retail marketplace is saturated with products offering relief. Kava, a plant from the pepper family, native to the Pacific Islands has been used for centuries to promote feelings of calm and relaxation as well as mental clarity.
The most common way to absorb the nutritional benefits of kava is to drink it. Making the beverage is straightforward: the ground kava root is placed into a strainer and allowed to steep in water. Gently kneading the strainer releases the active compounds, a process taking around 10-15 minutes. The infused water is then ready to drink, but additional flavours can be added to enhance its palatability, from chocolate and cinnamon, to a variety of fruit juices.
Much research has been done on the benefits of drinking kava. There is evidence to suggest it can improve sleep quality, promote muscle relaxation and even a natural stress reliever. Passionate about its healing potential, the founders of Sydney Kava have built their business on delivering kava to the Australian retail market.
Sustainably sourced directly from farmers in Kadavu, Fiji Islands, Sydney Kava aim to encourage customers to benefit from what “has been an essential part of Fijian and Pacific Island culture, used in ceremonies, social gatherings, and traditional healing practices. It is more than just a drink—it represents community, respect, and connection.”
It’s important to note, that the levels of active chemicals naturally present in kava (known as kavalactones) can vary widely. Kava has been known to produce similar symptoms to drunkenness, and it’s wise to sample it with caution. Keep your dose low to begin with and if thinking about “taking kava for medicinal purposes, be sure to contact a healthcare professional first” (Department of Health, Victoria State Government).
Find out more about the potential healing benefits of kava by dropping by their stand at location E5.
Don’t Miss Out!
Keep an eye out for these inspirational brands and so much more at Naturally Good, taking place 26th-27th May 2025 at ICC Sydney, Darling Harbour. Click here for the full Exhibitor List to make the most of your experience across the two-day event.