The Phytoneuroendocrine System: Connecting Plants to Human Systems Biology

Traditional medicine, exemplified by systems such as Ayurveda, inherently adopts a holistic framework. This framework extends beyond mere consideration of the human body to encompass broader systems of health, integrating elements of nature, particularly plants. Over time, there has been a notable integration between traditional medical philosophies and modern scientific methodologies. This integration is evident in published works that blend these disciplines, resulting in the creation of innovative terminology, such as «Ayurnutrigenomics». Concurrently, the lexicon within medical science has evolved to highlight the connection of body systems, as illustrated by terms like «gut-brain axis», which emphasize the relationship between physiological and psychological factors. This integration of perspectives is further demonstrated by terms such as «psychoneuroendocrine» and «mind-heart-body», reflecting a holistic approach to health. Alongside the emergence of these novel terms, there has been a proliferation of literature exploring the diverse functions of plants, particularly focusing on phytonutrients such as those found in the polyphenol category of compounds. In many ways, these emerging findings suggest a fundamental relationship between humans and plants, aligning with the principles of traditional medicine and indicating a profound connection between the two. Thus, in harmony with the increasing recognition of the interconnectedness between human systems biology, the study of phytochemicals, and the ability of plants to influence neuroendocrine responses, this article proposes a new term: the phytoneuroendocrine system.