What is herbal medicine

Herbal medicines are whole plants and plant derivatives such as flowers, roots and leaves that are used in the prevention and treatment of many health conditions. Plants contain a multitude of chemical constituents that beneficially benefit the human body. Plant medicines have been used traditionally for thousands of years as the primary source of healthcare in many countries including systems such as TCM in China, Ayurveda in India, and Gaelic in Europe.
The current use of phytotherapy integrates the traditional use of plant medicines backed up by modern-day clinical trials and scientific research. Herbal medicines have a remarkable effect on the body via modulation and adaptation, therefore bringing the body back into balance on many levels. Herbal medicines are very safe when prescribed by a qualified medical herbalist and are gentle in their actions. Plant medicines are safe for most people to use including children and the elderly and can be used alongside prescribed medications from your GP if treated by a fully qualified medical herbalist. A medical herbalist will take a full drug history and always check for drug/herb contraindications.

How does it work?

As a medical herbalist and nutritional therapist, I take a functional medical approach which aims to treat the whole body holistically looking to find and treat the cause rather than just the symptoms of your condition. A full health consultation takes place for approximately 1 hour which will endeavour to uncover the drivers of your health concerns and treat them accordingly with lifestyle changes, and dietary interventions alongside bespoke herbal medicine prescriptions and nutritional supplements if needed. Follow-up consultations are an integral part of your journey to make sure that you are on the correct pathway to better health and vitality.

What can I treat?

Many people come to see a medical herbalist and nutritionist when they have exhausted other options. Many patients come with long-standing chronic conditions alongside patients who need acute illness care.

Common conditions seen in the clinic include but are not limited to,

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Sleep issues
  • Stress
  • Long covid, fibromyalgia
  • IBS
  • IBD
  • Allergies
  • Autoimmune conditions
  • Heart health
  • Respiratory health
  • Urinary health
  • Immune health
  • Prostrate
  • PMS
  • Hormonal health
  • Perimenopause and menopause
  • Joint pain
  • Skin health