In this podcast we speak with Prof Marc Cohen about his work helping students conduct research, his passion for uncovering the evidence for complementary therapies and being the bridge between orthodox and integrative medicine. One herb Prof Cohen is most interested in is Holy Basil which he describes as the ultimate adaptogen. Prof Cohen will lead us through some of this herb's historical and clinical benefits. Marc's inclusive approach to wellbeing is a key reason as to why he is both a balanced industry ambassador and a true pioneer of the wellness industry.
Research Explored in this Podcast
Tulsi - Ocimum sanctum: A herb for all reasons
Abstract: The predominant cause of global morbidity and mortality is lifestyle-related chronic diseases, many of which can be addressed through Ayurveda with its focus on healthy lifestyle practices and regular consumption of adaptogenic herbs. Of all the herbs used within Ayurveda, tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn) is preeminent, and scientific research is now confirming its beneficial effects. There is mounting evidence that tulsi can address physical, chemical, metabolic and psychological stress through a unique combination of pharmacological actions. Tulsi has been found to protect organs and tissues against chemical stress from industrial pollutants and heavy metals, and physical stress from prolonged physical exertion, ischemia, physical restraint and exposure to cold and excessive noise. Tulsi has also been shown to counter metabolic stress through normalization of blood glucose, blood pressure and lipid levels, and psychological stress through positive effects on memory and cognitive function and through its anxiolytic and anti-depressant properties. Tulsi's broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, which includes activity against a range of human and animal pathogens, suggests it can be used as a hand sanitizer, mouthwash and water purifier as well as in animal rearing, wound healing, the preservation of food stuffs and herbal raw materials and traveler's health. Cultivation of tulsi plants has both spiritual and practical significance that connects the grower to the creative powers of nature, and organic cultivation offers solutions for food security, rural poverty, hunger, environmental degradation and climate change. The use of tulsi in daily rituals is a testament to Ayurvedic wisdom and provides an example of ancient knowledge offering solutions to modern problems.
Cohen M. Tulsi - Ocimum sanctum: A herb for all reasons. J Ayurveda Integr Med 2014;5(4):251-259
Professor Cohen is a registered medical practitioner with degrees in western medicine, physiology, psychological medicine and biomedical engineering. He is currently Chair of the Australasian Wellness Association, a Board Member and Past-President (from 2000-2007) of the Australasian Integrative Medicine Association (AIMA), a member of the RACGP-AIMA Joint Working party on Integrative Medicine and a Board Member of the Global Wellness Summit as well as sitting on the Editorial Board of a number of international journals.
Marc is a regular media contributor for major Australian newspapers, ABC Radio National and many regional stations Australia-wide, and television appearances on ABC, SBS, Channel 7 and Channel 9 news, current affairs and lifestyle programs.
Professor Cohen is active in research into the efficacy of integrative therapies such as organic food, nutritional supplementation, herbal medicine, yoga, acupuncture, electromagnetic field therapy, breathing techniques and wellness metrics.
Other Podcasts with Marc include: