Hormesis – Surely, there is ease after hardship

Abstract

Hormesis is an adaptive dose-dependent response of cells and organism to moderate stress through which the system improves its functionality and tolerance to more severe stress. This process is integral to all biological systems and is the driving force behind evolution, aging and health. The hormetic principle provides a fundamental explanation for the effect of fasting, exercise, diet, acupuncture, herbal medicine, radiation, and possibly homeopathy on human health. The principle of hormesis, if harnessed correctly, can remove the current roadblocks in the fields of nutrition, chronic disease, and aging. I will present the history of hormesis, its development, its physiological and toxicological underpinnings and the wide scope of its effect. Most importantly, I will present the clear verses of the Holy Qur’an that present the principle of hormesis, which also offer guidance for future research.