DESERTPLANTS POWER

The process of scientific research and discovery may still have a long way to go

"The process of scientific research and discovery may still have a long way to go, but there's one thing I'm absolutely sure of: Nature can give us everything we need to heal and look after ourselves. That's why I incorporate the traditional art of ayurvedic healing in my products." (Dr. Jürgen Juchheim)

Desert plants – the water specialists

Desert plants are survivors, staying alive under the roughest conditions. Lengthy periods of drought and extreme temperatures have forced them to develop special skills. 1001 tricks have been contrived by Nature, nearly all of them dealing with protection and water storage.

Rhizobian Gum

One of these tricks from nature's store is rhizobian gum. An active ingredient formed by micro-organisms in the root area of desert plants. It is a gel that surrounds the roots, so that the plants are protected during a drought and do not dry out, enabling them to survive for prolonged periods even without water.

People in Senegal, Africa, have been using rhizobian gum for ages to treat skin lesions and in skin care. This is because the strengthening gel does not only protect the roots of desert plants from loss of moisture, but also the human skin. Rubbed in with the plant substance, the skin becomes youthfully soft and supple.

"When I travel around the world, over and over again I notice how perfectly nature keeps everything in balance. For me as a physician, this is both a lesson and a hope." (Dr. Jürgen Juchheim)

Reflective layers of wax

Reflective layers of wax, a grey, pale surface, narrow, vertical structures that minimise a plant's exposure to sunlight, and spikes or hairs that reflect the sun and cast shadows on the plant's surface, all help provide effective protection against strong solar radiation and high temperatures. The aloe vera plant is an example of a plant whose leaves have a reflective surface.

Water reservoir in the stem

Tree succulents (water-storing succulent plants) and large cacti have evolved with a sponge-like tissue in the stem. This is perfect for storing large quantities of water. Some tree succulents also shed their leaves in severe droughts so as not to waste any water.

Deep and extensive roots

Many deserts and steppes have residual water from past rainfalls deep underground (at depths of 20 to 100 metres). Some desert plants have deep tap roots to access this water. Some varieties can sustain green leaves all year round as a result of this root mechanism. The umbrella thorn acacia has developed a different mechanism. It speculates on minimal quantities of moisture which can be found everywhere in the ground and has an incredibly extensive root system to collect it. Some of the roots can even go down to depths of over 30 metres

Mist and dew absorption

There is a morning mist in some deserts. The plants there capture the fine mist droplets on their leaves or other areas and transport them straight down the stem to the roots.

The guggul tree – a source of healing and youth

"The guggul tree is a genuinely fascinating plant. Guggul resin has been used in all kinds of Ayurvedic treatments for thousands of years already. I am convinced that it will continue to gain significance in western medicine as well." (Dr. Jürgen Juchheim)

The West Indian guggul tree has been used in Ayurvedic treatments for thousands of years. It is botanically classified as a member of the myrrh family, which is how it got the name of Indian myrrh. The resin of this tree is particularly useful in medical and cosmetic treatments. Ayurvedic physicians use guggul resin to treat a variety of conditions, from arthritis, skin conditions and bone inflammation, all the way to metabolic disorders and obesity. Western medical practitioners have now confirmed the resin's cholesterol-reducing properties.

The main active ingredient is a steroid called guggulsterone.

In the effect cream 4Weeks, the guggul resin stimulates two types of enzymes in the human body. These enzymes speed up the process of depositing fats (lipids) in the subcutaneous fat cells. As a result, the bust becomes fuller and the skin becomes smoother. This change is absolutely independent of hormonal influences.