Gemmotherapy: The Science of Healing with Plant Stem Cells

Roger Halfon, M.D.
Healing Arts Press (2010)
ISBN 9781594773419
Reviewed by Irene Watson for Reader Views (08/10)


“Gemmotherapy [from Lat. gemma, bud, and New Lat. therapīa, Grk. therapeia, medical treatment] is a form of herbal medicine that uses remedies made principally from the embryonic tissue of various trees and shrubs (the buds and emerging shoots), but also from the reproductive parts (the seeds and catkins) and from newly-grown tissue (the rootlets and the cortex of rootlets).” (Wikipedia)

A new therapy, yet an old practice, gemmotherapy remedies are in line with complementary and alternative protocols.  These include infusions, decoctions, macerations, creams and ointments, therapeutic immersion (baths,) and capsules.  The list of common plants is long but does include: Ash, Chestnut, Grapevine, Juniper, Sequoia, and White Willow.

For example, “Grapevines include a substantial amount of tannins, sugar flavonoids (helpful for good blood circulation), and vitamins A, B, and C.”  In gemmotherapy the bud is used to make the remedy. The Principle Action is beneficial for the bloodstream, but in gemmotherapy form it is used in treating inflammation. The Secondary Action is helpful in treating uterine fibroids and prostate adenoma.

Dr. Roger Halfon, the author of “Gemmotherapy,” also offers treatment protocols for various internal disorders.  At the back of the book is a list of resources where extracts can be obtained.

Before I read this book I wasn’t aware of gemmotherapy.  I found the premise fascinating and will pursue further research and study into the use of this form of herbal medicine. Using the embryonic tissues of plants is a natural practice and strays away from traditional medicine.  I’m for it! 

Dr. Halfon offers lay people and alternative/complementary practitioners an opportunity to add another dimension to their health practice.  The concise but informative manner makes it simple to understand and implement.  “Gemmotherapy” is the way to go.

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