Herbal Medicine is one of the oldest medical systems in the world. It may be that humans have always used plant medicines having observed animals eating plants.  Who taught the rattlesnake to seek out Echinacea when he inadvertently bites himself? Why do grizzly bears eat Saw Palmetto? America's First Nation peoples noticed how well bears looked after eating the fruit and it became part of their natural medicine chest. This curiosity, observation and practical application has continued over the millenia from which has come Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurvedic medicine, Graeco-Roman and Islamic medicine,  Humoral medicine  and Western Herbal Medicine.

There is a resurgence of interest into Natural Medicine. Whereas in the 80's interest in phytotherpay was frowned upon, since leaving Africa there has been a renaissance in Natural Medicine. People have been empowered and can now grow safe and effective remedies. Here in the UK, the challenges of daily  life, increased stress, pollution, "super bugs"  and illnessess associated with our lifestyle choices have  prompted people to seek the gentle, well-tollerated benefits of Herbal Medicine.

During the first consultation (lasts approximately 90 minutes) the herbalist takes a detailed history, records the blood pressure and pulse and performs any relevant physical examination. A diagnosis is made based on their findings. (The patient may need to be referred to their doctor for further tests). Together we discuss a management plan and the client  is encouraged to work in partenership, making relevant changes where necessary, to enable a return to better health. The emphasis is to "do one thing well".

Herbal medicine may then be prescribed in the form of a herbal tincture which is normally an alcohol based  preparation. Alternatively you may be offered dried herbs which can be made into a herbal infusion (tea). Creams, ointments or lotions may be given for external use.  Each prescription is individually crafted to suit the particular person.

Follow-up consultations are shorter and usually follow  3 or four weeks after the initial consultation. Prescriptions can then be modified to take account of any improvements. It is not possible to state how long a patient would work with the herblist. Each individual journey is unique but it is hoped that some improvement would be seen after 3 or 4 weeks.

"The Lord has brought forth medicinal herbs from the earth; and he that is wise will not abhor them"

Ecclesiasticus 38:4