If you have looked at wellness products in Ghana recently, you have probably seen the words plant stem cells. They appear on supplement boxes, in WhatsApp messages and on social media. But what are plant stem cells, and what do they actually do? This guide explains it simply, without the hype.
First, what is a stem cell?
Every living thing is made of cells. Most cells have one job: a skin cell is a skin cell, a muscle cell is a muscle cell. Stem cells are different. They are “starter” cells that can divide and develop into the specialised cells a living thing needs as it grows and renews itself.
Your own body has stem cells, and so do plants. In plants they sit mainly in the growing tips of shoots and roots, and they are the reason a plant can keep growing new leaves, stems and fruit throughout its life.
What are plant stem cell extracts?
Scientists can grow plant stem cells in a laboratory from a tiny piece of plant tissue. This lets them produce a consistent supply of the cells, and of the natural compounds inside them, without harvesting large amounts of rare plants. The cells are then processed into an extract that can be used in skincare and food supplements.
One well-known example is PhytoCellTec™, developed in Switzerland. It includes extracts from the stem cells of a rare Swiss apple variety (Malus domestica) and of the grape vine (Vitis vinifera). Both are used in the YES GLOBAL product SunRise.
What plant stem cells are not
It is important to be clear about one thing: plant stem cells do not turn into human cells, and they do not replace your own stem cells. When you take a supplement containing plant stem cell extract, you are taking plant nutrients and plant actives, in the same way you get nutrients from fruit and vegetables. Be cautious of any message that promises a supplement will cure a disease. Food supplements are not medicines.
Why do supplements use them?
Plant stem cell extracts are rich in the natural compounds a plant uses to protect and renew itself, such as antioxidants. In supplements they are usually combined with other ingredients that support everyday wellness. In SunRise, for example, the plant stem cell extracts are paired with:
- Uthever® NMN, which supports healthy levels of NAD+, a coenzyme your cells use to produce energy.
- Lutein and zeaxanthin (Lute-gen® and Zea-gen®), carotenoids that support eye health and help protect cells against oxidative stress.
- Superfoods such as Irish sea moss, moringa, acai berry, pomegranate and blueberry.
Together they make a broad, plant-based daily formula designed to support energy, radiance and healthy ageing as part of a balanced lifestyle.
How to get the most from any supplement
- Be consistent. Supplements work best as part of a daily routine, not as a one-off.
- Keep the basics right. Water, balanced meals, movement and good sleep matter more than any single product. Our free Everyday Wellness Guide covers the basics.
- Read the label and follow the directions for use.
- Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition.
Prefer to learn in Twi?
We have recorded a short audio lesson, Dɛn ne nkwammoaa? (What is a stem cell?), that explains these ideas in Twi. Listen on our Learn in Twi page.
Have a question?
Our team is happy to explain any product before you buy. Message us on WhatsApp or browse the full range in our shop.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Food supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.