What is a Herbalist?

Medical Herbalists make use of plants whose traditional uses are backed up by modern scientific research and clinical trials.

A herbalist will take a holistic approach to illness and hormonal imbalance by treating the underlying cause of disease as well as the symptoms.

I am well trained in herb and pharmaceutical interactions so I am able to safely prescribe herbal remedies to be used alongside other treatments.

I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Western Herbal Medicine, a BSc in Physics and an MSc in Medical Physics.

Herbal Medicine is suitable for people of any age, including children, who respond especially well to the gentle actions of herbs.

What is Herbal Medicine?

Herbal medicines are plant-based medicines made from differing combinations of plant parts e.g. leaves, flowers or roots. Each part can have different medicinal uses and the many types of chemical constituents require different extraction methods. Both fresh and dried plant matter are used, depending on the herb. 

It is important to ensure herbal medicines are being being sourced from reputable manufacturers, who maintain consistent quality standards. Traceability (right back to the original batch of herbs) and certificates of authenticity are key ways in which quality is maintained. Sustainability is also of crucial importance. 

Types of herbal medicine?

  • Teas/Infusions: dried or fresh herbs steeped in boiling water
  • Decoctions: usually harder plant material, boiled on the stove for longer than infusions
  • Syrups: herbs in a sugar solution. Ideal for coughs and sore throats or for getting herbs into a child.
  • Poultices: moistened herbs kept in place by a cloth for localised healing
  • Creams/Lotions/Infused oils: liquid preparations for external use
  • Tinctures: alcohol based solutions of herbs.
  • Snuffs: for treating sinus problems and sometimes headaches.
  • Suppositories/Pessaries: for direct application of herbs to intimate orifices.

What happens during a consultation?

During your first consultation I will build up a picture of you and your health by:

  • Taking your full case history
  • Asking about your family’s medical history
  • Discussing your diet and lifestyle
  • Finding out about any medication or supplements you use

This allows me to assess the underlying causes of your illness and formulate a mixture of herbs tailored to your individual needs. It may also be necessary to take your blood pressure or arrange for other tests to be done.

Your individual treatment plan will include herbal remedies and, where appropriate, dietary changes or nutritional supplements. Most herbal medicines are given in the form of a liquid tincture that is taken in 5ml doses of two or three times daily. You may also be prescribed a herbal tea, tablets, ointment, cream or lotion.

After the initial consultation, three or four shorter consultations are usually necessary to assess your progress, followed by check-ups every three to six months, depending on the nature of your condition. Because herbal medicines work in a gentle and subtle way, they can take longer to work than orthodox drugs, but their effects are long lasting and there should be no side effects.

FAQs

Can Herbal Medicine Be Used As First Aid?

Medicinal plants have always been used as natural first aid remedies such as rubbing dock leaves onto nettle stings or applying lavender oil to treat burns. You may also come across herbalists running First Aid stations at outdoor festivals.  The teams are qualified in Advanced First Aid; some are even experienced nurses and paramedics.  Herbs are used to treat a vast array of acute conditions, in both emergency and non-emergency situations, from insect bites to headaches to serious wounds.

Whilst much of this tradition has been lost in modern times, there is a resurgence of public interest in the use of local plants for minor ailments.  Many herbalists run beginners’ courses where you can learn more; from plant identification to making remedies.  

Can Herbs And Pharmaceutical Drugs Be Used Together?

There are many instances in which herbs and pharmaceutical drugs work well together.

However, in some situations, there can be negative interactions. Some herbs, like St John’s Wort, cannot be taken along with certain other medicines.  Your medical herbalist is trained to know which herbs to use safely and will be able to advise on any situation. 

How Long Will Herbal Treatment Take?

There is no definitive answer because so many variables will influence the duration of treatment. Our biological makeup is as unique as our medical histories and bodies heal at differing rates.

Influential factors affecting length of therapy required include:

•    The condition
•    Severity of the condition
•    How long it has been present
•    Past medical history
•    Drug history
•    Current health status

I may be able to give you an estimated guideline once I have taken a detailed case history.  It is important that progress is closely monitored and herbal prescriptions are adjusted accordingly over time.

Herbal medicine can sometimes take longer before beginning to achieve their desired effect when compared to pharmaceutical drugs. However, its gentle, supportive action aims to address the root cause of the condition and therefore usually produces more permanent results. In addition, when correctly prescribed, side effects are rare.

Whilst the above is applicable for chronic cases, the right dose of herbs can produce immediate results. Medical herbalists working in First Aid situations often resolve acute issues within hours or days.

As the choice of herbs and appropriate administration are key to safety and efficacy, professional advice is recommended.

Should I Tell My GP And Specialists That I’m Taking Herbs?

Yes, most definitely.

We advocate the integrated safe use of medicinal plants for our patients by working with other healthcare practitioners such as GPs, Nurse Practitioners, and specialists. It is very important that all healthcare providers responsible for your care are fully informed about the herbs and drugs you are taking, including over the counter products and food supplements. This is important in order to avoid possible herb/drug/supplement/food interactions.

Medical Herbalists often work alongside, and in co-operation with, a wide range of practitioners, including conventional healthcare professionals, and this is something that we are keen to continue and develop.

What Is Your Policy On Animal Testing?

I am opposed to testing of products on animals.