and Soul

The Ancient Roots of Plant-based Wellness: A Journey Through History

The Ancient Roots of Plant-based Wellness: A Journey Through History
Throughout history, humankind has turned to nature for answers and remedies to promote well-being and holistic healing. Plants have played a significant role in supporting wellness, with civilizations across the world harnessing their powerful properties. In this blog post, we will take a fascinating trip back in time to discover the ancient roots of plant-based wellness, highlighting the historical significance of plants and their immense contributions to humanity's health and harmony.
The Ancient Roots of Plant-based Wellness: A Journey Through History
1. Ancient Egypt: Divine Remedies from the Nile
From the banks of the Nile River emerged one of the most ancient civilizations known to mankind: the mighty Egyptians. Renowned for their advancements in a myriad of fields, the ancient Egyptians revered plants for their therapeutic abilities. Essential oils extracted from aromatic plants like frankincense and myrrh were used in religious ceremonies and for promoting mental and physical well-being.
The Ancient Roots of Plant-based Wellness: A Journey Through History
2. Ayurveda: Healing the Mind, Body, and Soul
Originating in ancient India, Ayurveda is one of the oldest holistic healing systems globally. This ancient practice emphasizes the use of plant-based remedies, known as herbs, to balance the body, mind, and spirit. Ayurvedic practitioners harness the therapeutic properties of herbs like turmericashwagandha, and holy basil to support overall wellness and vitality.
The Ancient Roots of Plant-based Wellness: A Journey Through History
3. Traditional Chinese Medicine: The Wisdom of Herbalism
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) encompasses a rich history dating back thousands of years. Herbalism is at the core of TCM, with practitioners utilizing herbs such as ginsenggoji berries, and ginger to restore balance and promote vitality. The wisdom and effectiveness of TCM have influenced millions worldwide, providing natural wellness solutions.
The Ancient Roots of Plant-based Wellness: A Journey Through History
4. Native American Remedies: Honoring the Earth's Bounty
Native American cultures have long respected and valued the healing properties of plants found in their local environment. These indigenous peoples used various herbs, including sagelavender, and cedarwood, for cleansing rituals, spiritual practices, and healing ailments. The knowledge of these vibrant, earth-connected communities embodies a deep wisdom that till resonates today.
The Ancient Roots of Plant-based Wellness: A Journey Through History
5. Greek and Roman Influence: Botanical Medicine Pioneers
Ancient Greeks and Romans made significant contributions to botanical medicine, laying the foundation for modern herbal practices. Greek physicians like Hippocrates championed the concept of "Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food." Prominent herbs such as rosemarylavender, and chamomile were used for their therapeutic properties and to promote overall well-being.


As we journey through time, it becomes evident that plants have long been revered as integral to holistic wellness. From ancient civilizations to modern times, plants have been used to support physical, mental, and emotional health. Young Living's commitment to preserving this ancient wisdom in its essential oil products allows us to harness the power of botanicals just as our ancestors did. By leveraging the therapeutic potential of plants, we are not only embracing our rich heritage but also nourishing and balancing our well-being in today's fast-paced world. You can embrace the wisdom of the ages and experience the profound benefits of plant-based wellness today by utilizing Young Living's essential oils and oil-infused products. 
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*This blog centers the GenX experience, simply because that’s the lens I live through—but anyone looking for connection, natural wellness, grief support, or a little real-talk in this messy stage of life is more than welcome.

✨ My blog exists because I know what it feels like to keep everything jumbled in your head — like a messy pile of clothes you can’t sort through.

 Writing it all down brings clarity, calm, and sometimes even healing answers I didn’t know I was looking for.


Honestly, that’s why I keep showing up to write — it helps me make sense of things. 

 Even if you have no intentions of ever publishing your work, I highly recommend writing stuff down. It doesn't have to be a literary masterpiece or even full, grammatically correct sentences... just dump those random thoughts onto paper... you'll see what I mean.

*This blog centers the GenX experience, simply because that’s the lens I live through—but anyone looking for connection, natural wellness, grief support, or a little real-talk in this messy stage of life is more than welcome.

Hi! I'm AJ Flanagan.

 
Hey there — I’m AJ.

I’m an empty-nester and a widow who had a wake-up call about the hidden toxins in everyday products most of us grew up using. Our parents didn’t know. We didn’t know either. But once you start paying attention, it’s hard to ignore.

Life shifted in 2018 when my husband, Eric, was diagnosed with leukemia — and again in 2023 when we faced a second cancer diagnosis. Supporting him through treatment changed how we looked at just about everything, including how we cared for our home, our bodies, and our day-to-day routines.
We didn’t aim for perfection or extremes. We focused on simple, meaningful changes — reducing toxic load in our home, choosing better ingredients, prioritizing nourishing food, and building calmer rhythms into daily life. Tools like aromatherapy, music, meditation, and intentional rest became part of how we coped and stayed grounded.

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