Articles by Paul Horstermans

Articles by Paul Horstermans

Paul Horstermans, a Dutch national residing in the colourful city of Chiang Mai, Thailand, has made a name for himself as a passionate advocate for natural health. Nestled in a region renowned for its super-fruits, powerful herbs, and extraordinary cuisine, Chiang Mai serves as the perfect backdrop for Paul's fascination for Thai traditional medicine. Tom first crossed paths with Paul in the early 2000s at his lively music pub, after they stayed in touch. Paul enjoyed three years of academic training in cultural anthropology and sociology. An accomplished online writer, Paul has penned a wealth of online articles covering travel, ancient herbs, mushrooms, fruits, and super-foods. His insatiable thirst for knowledge drives him to explore 'new' medicinal herbs and local remedies, conducting extensive research to uncover their remarkable health benefits. When he's not investigating the wonders of nature, Paul cherishes time spent outdoors with his family, embracing the beauty of the natural world around him.

Eczema – The Natural Path Out

16 May 2023
The Natural Path Out
Eczema is not a single condition but a group of skin conditions with various types such as atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, hand eczema, neurodermatitis, nummular eczema, and stasis dermatitis. Eczema is common in young children and is becoming more prevalent, a bit like everything else!. Although some may outgrow it, it can come and go throughout life. Identifying triggers and learning how to treat eczema is vital. Many causes and risk factors contribute to eczema such as genetics, allergies, dry or sensitive skin, immune system dysfunction, environmental conditions, chronic stress, and temperature changes.

Thai Cuisine Turned my Brain on

19 April 2023
Thai Cuisine
It was a sun-soaked summer day in 1997 when I first discovered the amazing taste of Thai food, which I mainly consumed at the street stalls or places where the locals went having their meal. Growing up, I had always been a picky eater, sticking to familiar dishes and flavours. Many of you guys probably ate the same dishes as I did. A meal always included (mashed) potatoes, some veggies and some meat. (This was before vegan food became popular) It was my first solo-trip to Thailand. I mainly explored the northeastern region, by the Thais known as Esarn. So, on this day, I was feeling adventurous and was willing to expand my narrow culinary mind trying something completely new.

Ashwagandha & Sleep – An Experiment

5 April 2023
Ashwagandha
There is a ton of information available on the internet about virtually every supplement known to man. Just one Google search and you’ll be overloaded with benefits, side effects and how to use it. The problem is often that it’s just literature or the same websites repeating similar information without analysing it. General information is fine. But before you begin, it is also helpful to read about some personal experiences. At least, for me that is often what the deciding factor is. It is most-likely less scientific, but if 1 person had a great experience that is important for me and often it’s enough convincing me giving it a try.

Pueraria Mirifica – A Botanical Wonder

31 March 2023
Pueraria Mirifica
Today, I want to talk about Pueraria Mirifica, the miracle herb from Asia. I’ve heard so many positive things about this extraordinary plant. There is so much to learn about this medicinal plant species and I discovered that recent research has discovered many more health benefits. So, I think now it is the right time for an update! Pueraria Mirifica is an ancient herbal medicine from “The Land of Smiles”. I call it the miracle herb as that is what Mirifica means. Since Ancient times, the roots of this plant have been used in traditional Thai medicine to promote youthfulness and rejuvenation in both men and women. Now, we all could need some of that!