In a world where our bodies are fragile and mental health is often neglected, when confronted by the racing technological advancements and fast-paced lifestyles, the result is predictable, and it is not the bodies that are going to win. But for Eleye Abdi, a tech professional with roots in the Horn of Africa, this became the unlikely spark for a profound personal transformation. His journey, inspired by his grandmother’s traditional remedies, is a testament to the power of resilience and a reminder that sometimes, the most innovative solutions are found in the wisdom of the past.
A Turning Point: When Tech Met Tradition
Eleye’s story isn’t your typical Silicon Valley narrative. He wasn’t chasing the next billion-dollar app. Instead, he was grappling with something far more personal: severe anxiety and depression, fueled by the relentless pressures of his career. Prescription medications offered a temporary reprieve, but the side effects left him feeling drained and dependent.
“I just had to remember myself, like what my grandmother and I used to do together,” Eleye recalls. “She used to sit in the market and have a lot of open bags and sell natural remedies that are very, very highly respected and have high reverence in Africa, that my grandmother used to give to us when we were kids.”
This memory became a lifeline. He began researching the ancient remedies his grandmother had used, delving into their history and the science that backed them up. What he discovered was a treasure trove of knowledge, passed down through generations, offering a natural path to healing and balance.
From Personal Struggle to a Mission of Sharing
Eleye’s exploration of herbal remedies wasn’t just an academic exercise; it was a personal experiment. As he incorporated these natural solutions into his daily routine, he experienced a profound shift. He was able to wean himself off medications and regain control over his mental and physical health. This transformative experience ignited a desire to share his newfound knowledge with others.”I wanted to make sure that I share that knowledge as much as possible,” Eleye says. “So my products, as well as my book, are really all about natural healing, very much based on herbs, pretty much respectful of all the different cultures that it comes from.”
He recognized that mental health challenges were on the rise, and many people were seeking alternative approaches to wellness. He envisioned a way to make these ancient remedies more accessible and convenient, offering a holistic approach to healing in a world that often feels overwhelming.
Quirkitude: A New Kind of Wellness Brand
Driven by this passion, Eleye founded Quirkitude, a business dedicated to providing high-quality herbal supplements and educational resources. The name itself is a nod to embracing individuality and finding strength in what makes us unique.”My business is making that easy and accessible for people in the form of supplements,” Eleye explains. “My book is teaching them about all the other different ways they can use it other than in supplement forms and just making sure that these herbs are seriously well-known.”
Quirkitude offers a range of supplements designed to address various aspects of well-being, from cognitive support to stress relief. These supplements incorporate scientifically-backed herbs like ashwagandha, ginkgo biloba, and lion’s mane. He also offers mushroom-infused coffees, a convenient way to incorporate these beneficial ingredients into a daily routine. Eleye emphasizes sourcing high-quality, ethically-sourced, and vegan herbs to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of his products.
The Book: A Guide to Natural Healing
Eleye is also writing a book that delves deeper into the world of natural healing. It explores the history, science, and practical applications of various herbs and holistic practices, offering readers a comprehensive guide to incorporating these remedies into their daily lives.
“My book talks a lot about teas that we can use, tinctures, and oils, and there’s so many different ways we can incorporate these natural products into our everyday life,” Eleye explains.
The book covers everything from the benefits of herbal teas to the proper preparation of tinctures and oils. It also stresses the importance of respecting the cultural origins of these practices and seeking guidance from qualified healthcare professionals.
Challenges and Triumphs: A Personal Evolution
Eleye’s journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. He faced skepticism and the challenge of navigating the overwhelming amount of information surrounding herbal remedies. He emphasizes the importance of thorough research and consulting with experts to ensure the accuracy and safety of his recommendations.
“I really kept it with a lot of skepticism, went in begrudgingly, I don’t know, we young people, sometimes we think we know more than our parents and our grandparents,” Eleye admits.
Despite these challenges, Eleye has remained committed to promoting natural healing. His passion for helping others, combined with his unwavering belief in the power of nature, has fueled his determination to make a positive impact.
The Takeaway: Prioritize Self-Care
Eleye is particularly passionate about reaching individuals who are neurodivergent, but he believes that the benefits of natural healing can extend to everyone. His key message is simple: prioritize self-care. “Really, the most important one is not even about the herbs,” Eleye explains. “It’s really just about making sure you take care of yourself and you don’t forget about yourself.”
He encourages readers to incorporate small, sustainable practices into their daily routines, such as drinking herbal tea, taking a walk in nature, or practicing mindfulness. These simple acts of self-care can have a profound impact on one’s overall health and happiness.
About The Author
Eleye Abdi is a tech professional turned wellness advocate, whose personal journey through anxiety and depression sparked a passion for natural healing. Inspired by his grandmother’s traditional African remedies, he founded Quirkitude to share the power of herbs and holistic practices. As an author of Ancient Natural Remedies for Neurodivergent Individuals, Eleye aims to empower others to prioritize self-care and find balance in a fast-paced world. His work blends ancient wisdom with modern accessibility, offering a path towards greater well-being.
