Giovanni Conti: The Dream of Healing with Nature

His is a story of excellence and a passion for wellness through naturopathy and alternative medicine. In a world where dogmas often prevail, there is still room for those who choose to seek healing through alternative and/or complementary paths. We discuss this with Giovanni Conti, who dreams of opening an herbal shop in Rome and currently runs a wellness-focused platform.

How did your passion for naturopathy and alternative medicine begin?

“Ever since I was a child, my grandmother told me stories about her own grandparents—lives that were simple yet deeply connected to nature. I still remember tales of gardens rich in herbs like mint, sage, and chamomile, and the skilled hands of the women in the family who knew exactly which plant to gather for every ailment. In fact, whenever I fell ill as a child, my grandmother always had an herbal tea ready to restore my strength, turning every remedy into an act of love and a deep bond with nature. These stories of ancient tradition ignited a passion in me that has never faded. As I grew up, I began studying, gathering herbs, and experimenting with natural remedies, until family and friends started asking me for advice on herbal alternatives to conventional medicines. Over time, a small community formed around me—people who rely on natural medicine, just as they once turned to my great-great-grandmother. Today, I feel I am carrying on a precious family tradition, an ancient body of knowledge that deserves to be preserved and passed down.”

What kind of child were you? Have you always had a passion for this field?

“Growing up, I was always fascinated by ‘bygone eras.’ I was captivated by the stories my grandmother told about my great-great-grandparents: they had neither electricity nor heating; they used oil lamps for light and a wood-burning stove to warm the house. Even the mattress was handmade at home. The courtyard was a fruit and vegetable garden that would put modern gardening to shame. I would sit and listen, spellbound, to these stories about old methods and how things used to be made. My interest in natural healing and ancient remedies stayed with me, and I always wanted to learn more. Not to mention my passion for my culture and my roots: I was constantly asking questions about Italy and how things were done in our homeland. From childhood, I decided I had to delve deeper into this traditional knowledge—healing, domestic life, and the customs of the past. These values, present since my early years, have remained and grown within me. My life today is deeply rooted in the traditions my grandmother passed down to me—traditions she, in turn, had learned from her own grandparents.”

What benefits can be derived from this type of medicine, as opposed to conventional medicine?

“Herbal medicine offers a holistic approach to healing because each plant contains numerous natural constituents that work synergistically to help the body regain its balance. Unlike conventional medicine—which often isolates a single active ingredient and merely suppresses symptoms—natural medicine aims to treat the root cause of the imbalance, supporting healing in a comprehensive way. It is like tending to a garden: spraying water on the leaves might provide temporary relief, but only by nourishing the soil can the plant become strong and healthy again. Herbs work the same way: they collaborate with the body’s natural mechanisms to promote lasting well-being, whereas pharmaceutical drugs primarily act as quick fixes for symptoms.”

People seeking treatment often lack knowledge about this subject, yet this type of alternative medicine is gaining ground worldwide; what more needs to be done, in your opinion?

“There is still a great need to educate people on the proper use of herbal medicine. Today, many rely on self-treatment or information found online without understanding the risks. For instance, someone taking an anticoagulant might use Salix alba (white willow) for a headache, unaware that it can increase the risk of bleeding. That is why it is crucial to consult a qualified expert capable of evaluating one’s medical history, test results, and potential drug interactions. Natural medicine offers significant benefits, but safe and responsible healing can only be ensured through accurate information and professional guidance.”

How important is it to care for oneself effectively using herbs?

“Herbal medicine plays a fundamental role in supporting overall health and well-being because it approaches healing from a truly holistic perspective. Unlike many conventional treatments that focus solely on eliminating symptoms, herbal remedies work to address the root cause of imbalance within the body. Many plants contain a variety of active constituents that act synergistically, supporting not just a specific organ or system, but the entire organism. This means that while an herb might be used for a particular ailment, it often offers additional benefits—such as nourishing tissues, rebalancing energy, supporting digestion, calming the nervous system, or strengthening immune defenses. For example, Melissa officinalis (lemon balm) is often used to help during times of stress and mild anxiety. While it calms the nervous system, it also supports digestive health, improves sleep quality, and fosters overall emotional well-being. This multifunctional action is what sets herbal medicine apart: it does not merely silence a symptom but encourages the body to return to a natural state of harmony. True healing takes time and operates on multiple levels—physical, emotional, and even spiritual. Herbal medicine honors this process by offering gentle yet potent remedies that work in tandem with the body’s natural healing mechanisms rather than overriding them. This approach not only alleviates discomfort but also builds resilience and promotes lasting health.”

Before we say goodbye to our readers, what are your future plans, and what do you hope to build with your determination?

“My goal is to move to Rome and open my own herbal shop this year. Italy has always held a special place in my heart—not only because of my family roots but also due to my deep passion for the culture, traditions, and beautiful language. I have always felt a strong connection to the Italian lifestyle, where natural remedies, community, and well-being are integral parts of daily life. My dream is to create a space where people can rediscover the healing power of nature. In my shop, I will offer herbal remedies, herbal teas, and natural products designed to help people regain balance and vitality in a safe, holistic way. Beyond retail, I want to build a welcoming environment where education, tradition, and healing come together—a place where both residents and visitors can learn more about herbal medicine, and where ancient knowledge is honored and passed on. Given my love for Italian culture and language, I view this project not merely as a business venture, but as a way to connect with the community, celebrate my roots, and help others embrace natural healing as part of their everyday lives.”