Plant-based therapies are becoming a key part of care for many Australians living with chronic conditions, anxiety, pain, and sleep difficulties. Thanks to telehealth and increased access to plant-based health approaches, more people are exploring these options under the supervision of qualified healthcare professionals.
But what happens when you don’t feel any different?
This blog explores why a prescribed plant-based treatment may not work for everyone, what you can do about it, and how to safely explore alternatives. It is intended to educate and guide patients who are navigating this experience.
1. Understanding Why It May Not Be Working
Not every treatment works the same way for every person. Here are some reasons why you might not feel the effects of your plant-based therapy:
- Dosage: You may not have reached a therapeutic dose yet. Plant-based therapies often require gradual increases.
- Formulation mismatch: Different conditions respond to different combinations of compounds. What works for one person may not work for another.
- Method of administration: Oils, capsules, or inhaled formats all act differently in the body. The way you take it can impact how well it works.
- Metabolism and body chemistry: Your endocannabinoid system, lifestyle, and existing medications may affect how your body responds.
- Expectations: Results are often gradual, with symptom relief rather than complete resolution.
2. What You Can Do Next
If your current therapy isn’t giving you results, don’t give up. Consider the following steps:
a. Book a Telehealth Review
Schedule a follow-up with your prescribing doctor. A telehealth consultation makes this process easy, and your prescriber can reassess your:
- Product type and dosage
- Duration of use
- Possible interactions with other medications
b. Keep a Symptom Journal
Track what you’re taking, when, and how you feel before and after. This record will help your prescriber identify trends and make more informed adjustments.
c. Explore Other Options Within the Plant-Based Range
Your prescriber may suggest a change in format (e.g., switching from oil to capsule), or a different formulation altogether. Always make changes under medical supervision.
d. Consider Lifestyle Factors
Sometimes a plant-based treatment works better alongside holistic supports such as:
- Nutrition
- Sleep hygiene
- Stress management (e.g., mindfulness)
- Physical therapy or gentle exercise
3. When to Reassess or Pause
If you’ve tried a prescribed therapy for 8–12 weeks without meaningful change, it might be time to pause or switch.
Some signs it may be time to reassess:
- No symptom relief over a sustained period
- Persistent or unpleasant side effects
- Financial cost outweighs perceived benefit
Speak with your healthcare provider before stopping or switching any treatment.
4. Exploring Other Plant-Based Health Approaches
If one therapy hasn’t worked for you, there may be other plant-based or integrative options worth discussing. These could include:
- Herbal supports like valerian, ashwagandha, or magnesium
- Anti-inflammatory supplements like turmeric
- Nutritional strategies to support mood and energy
- Allied health supports like naturopathy, psychology, or physiotherapy
These should always be discussed with a qualified practitioner to ensure they are safe for your individual health needs.
5. Your Rights as a Patient
As a patient in Australia, you have the right to:
- Get a second opinion
- Access your medical records
- Change your prescriber or clinic
- Ask questions and receive informed explanations
Access to care should be safe, transparent, and tailored to your unique circumstances.
Final Thoughts
It can be frustrating when a treatment doesn’t work the way you hoped. But that doesn’t mean the journey is over. With professional support and a willingness to adjust your plan, many people find success through trial, review, and refinement.
Pure Lyf is here to support your plant-based health journey with safe, compliant, and compassionate care.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified health practitioner before starting, stopping, or changing any treatment.
