Why Natural Remedies Work for Some People (But Not for Others)
We won't recommending CBD as a remedy, just shedding some light on the link between genetics and cannabis as this is a highly responsive talking point for our audience
by Nicqui Grant, RD(SA), IFNCP
And what you can do to make them work better for you
Ever tried a natural remedy your friend swears by only to find it does absolutely nothing for you? You're not alone. When it comes to herbs, vitamins, or supplements, it’s easy to feel frustrated when results are hit-or-miss. But there’s a good reason this happens, and it often comes down to something deeply personal: your unique biology and genes.
Let’s unpack why natural remedies can work wonders for one person but fall flat (or even backfire) for another and what you can do about it.
Your Body’s Chemistry Is Unique
We’re all wired differently. Our genetics, gut bacteria, hormone levels, metabolism, and even stress response shape how we react to natural substances.
Take CBD, for example. It works through your endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps regulate mood, pain, and inflammation. But if your ECS is already in balance, or if your genes make you metabolize CBD faster or slower, it might not have the same calming effect others rave about. That’s due in part to liver enzymes like CYP450, which are coded by your genes and affect how substances are broken down.
Genes Affect Nutrient Absorption
Not everyone absorbs or uses nutrients the same way. Some people have genetic variants that make it harder to absorb or activate certain vitamins.
- FUT2 gene variants can reduce your ability to absorb and TCN2 variants how you transport vitamin B12.
- MTHFR gene variants may impair your ability to convert folate into its active form (methylfolate), which your body needs.
So, even if you're taking the “right” supplement, your body might not be able to use it effectively unless the form is tailored to your needs.
Metabolism Varies
Your liver plays a huge role in processing supplements, using enzymes that are genetically influenced. For instance, variations in the CYP450 gene family can mean:
- Fast metabolizers may break down a supplement too quickly to feel the benefit.
- Slow metabolizers may hold onto it too long, increasing the chance of side effects.
This also affects herbs, medications, and even caffeine.
Receptor Sensitivity Matters
Even if a nutrient is in your bloodstream, it needs to “dock” with cell receptors to work. If your receptors are less responsive or shaped a little differently due to genetics, the nutrient might not do its job.
A good example: some people have variations in vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene, which can make vitamin D less effective.
Inflammation & Detox Genes Play a Role
Your body’s ability to manage inflammation, detoxify chemicals, and neutralize oxidative damage is also influenced by genes like:
- TNF, IL6 (inflammation)
- GST’s, COMT (detoxification)
- SOD2, NQO1 (antioxidant defense)
This means that your response to antioxidants (like vitamin C), adaptogens (like ashwagandha), or anti-inflammatory herbs (like turmeric) might differ dramatically from someone else’s.
Product Quality & Dosage Vary
Not all supplements are created equal. Some are underdosed, poorly absorbed, or made with inconsistent ingredients. Factors like:
- The form (tea vs. capsule vs. tincture)
- The standardization of active ingredients
- Whether it’s third-party tested for purity
…all make a difference in how well a product works for you.
You Might Be Treating the Wrong Root Cause
Even if your symptoms look the same as someone else’s, the cause might be completely different.
- A headache from dehydration won’t respond to magnesium like one caused by stress might.
- A skin rash due to food allergies won’t heal the same way as one caused by hormone shifts.
That’s why a personalized approach is key.
The Placebo Effect
Sometimes, natural remedies appear to work simply because we believe they will. This is called the placebo effect, and it’s a powerful sign of how closely the mind and body are connected.
While it’s important to be objective, it’s also okay to trust your own sense of what’s helping especially when you’re tracking your symptoms honestly.
Lifestyle Factors Make a Big Difference
Diet, sleep, stress, and exercise all affect how your body responds to supplements. If someone makes lifestyle changes alongside starting a new remedy, it can be hard to know what’s really making the difference it might be the bigger picture, not just the pill.
Timing & Consistency Count
Natural remedies usually aren’t quick fixes. They often need to be taken consistently for a few weeks to show real benefits. If you try something for a few days and give up, you might miss its full potential.
So, What Can You Do?
Here are some practical steps to help you get better results from natural remedies:
- Take a 3X4 Genetics Test to personalize your supplement regimen then:
- Track your symptoms carefully in a journal or app.
- Introduce one supplement at a time to see what’s working.
- Choose high-quality, tested products from trusted brands.
- Work with a practitioner trained in integrative or functional medicine.
- Be patient and consistent, give each remedy 2–4 weeks, unless it causes side effects.
- Trust your body’s signals but stay aware of the placebo effect.
If a natural remedy isn’t working for you, it doesn’t mean it’s “bad” or fake, it just might not be the right match for your unique body and genes. By tuning into your biology, choosing the right form and dose, and taking a thoughtful approach, you can make natural medicine work better for you.