PEAK PERFORMANCEMonths to result

The Slow Medicine Framework

Reconnecting with nature

Problem it solves

slow medicine

Best for

Individuals seeking a more holistic approach to medicine

Not ideal for

Those seeking quick fixes or relying heavily on pharmaceuticals

Overview

Why this framework exists

The Slow Medicine Framework emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with nature and understanding the origins of medicines. It encourages individuals to adopt a more mindful and aware approach to consuming medicines and supplements, recognizing that the dose makes the poison and that high concentrations of natural compounds can be destructive. This framework also highlights the need for a'slow medicine movement' that promotes a healthier relationship with medicines and the natural world.

Core principles

3 total
  1. The dose makes the poison
  2. Nature has a balance that can be leveraged to address human ailments
  3. Awareness and mindfulness are key to a healthier relationship with medicines

Steps

3 steps
  1. Reconnect with nature
    Take time to understand the origins of medicines and the natural world. Recognize the importance of balance in nature and how it can be leveraged to address human ailments.
    Pro tipStart by learning about the history of medicines and how they have been derived from natural products
    WarningBe cautious of high concentrations of natural compounds, as they can be destructive
  2. Adopt a mindful approach to consuming medicines
    Be aware of the medicines and supplements you are consuming and recognize that the dose makes the poison. Take time to understand the potential risks and benefits of each medicine.
    Pro tipStart by reading labels and researching the ingredients in your medicines and supplements
    WarningBe cautious of medicines and supplements that are highly concentrated or have unknown ingredients
  3. Promote a healthier relationship with medicines
    Encourage others to adopt a slow medicine approach and promote a healthier relationship with medicines and the natural world.
    Pro tipShare your knowledge with others and encourage them to take a more mindful approach to consuming medicines
    WarningBe respectful of others' approaches to medicine and recognize that everyone's journey is unique

Checklist

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Examples

2 cases
The story of aspirin

Aspirin was derived from the bark of the willow tree and has been used for centuries to address pain and inflammation. This is an example of how nature has a balance that can be leveraged to address human ailments.

OutcomeAspirin is now a widely used medicine that has improved the lives of millions of people
The story of metformin

Metformin was derived from the French lilac plant and has been used for centuries to address diabetes. This is an example of how nature has a balance that can be leveraged to address human ailments.

OutcomeMetformin is now a widely used medicine that has improved the lives of millions of people

Common mistakes

3 traps
Ignoring the importance of balance in nature
Failing to recognize the balance in nature and how it can be leveraged to address human ailments can lead to a lack of awareness and mindfulness in consuming medicines
Consuming high concentrations of natural compounds
Consuming high concentrations of natural compounds can be destructive and lead to negative health consequences
Failing to adopt a mindful approach to consuming medicines
Failing to adopt a mindful approach to consuming medicines can lead to a lack of awareness and understanding of the potential risks and benefits of each medicine

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The concept of slow medicine is rooted in the idea that medicines have been derived from natural products and that there is a balance in nature that can be leveraged to address human ailments. This framework is inspired by the slow food movement, which emphasizes the importance of cooking and getting in touch with food to promote a healthier relationship with it.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · PODCAST
Health Effects & Risks of Kratom, Opioids & Other Natural Occurring Medicines | Dr. Chris McCurdy
Andrew Huberman · 2025
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