Herbal Medicine

Herbal medicine also sometimes referred to as Herbalism, Western herbal medicine or Phytotherapy is the use of medicinal plants in a holistic treatment approach.

The gentle healing effect of herbal medicine is suitable for people of all ages as well as pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding. Herbal medicine serves to promote health as well as restoring balance within the body

The following is just a short list of many common complaints that can be treated with herbs:

Allergies, hay fever
Arthritic and rheumatic disorders
Candida
Acne, rosacea, eczema, psoriasis
Headaches, migraines, anxiety, neuroses, depression, insomnia, stress, constant tiredness
PMS, fertility problems, heavy or painful periods, menopausal complaints, polycystic ovaries, endometriosis, cystitis, thrush, prostate problems
Indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), colic, constipation / diarrhoea
Bronchitis, recurring colds, catarrh, sinusitis, coughs, chronic asthma, ear infection, low immune system
High blood pressure, varicose veins, circulatory problems

For many, that first visit to a medical herbalist can be a life changing experience, a chance to experience true healthcare as it should be practised. Your medical herbalist is a genuine, caring partner in health from the cradle to the third age. Many come to appreciate the power of correctly prescribed, natural herbal medicines dispensed by a highly trained medical professional.

Patients are often amazed at the opportunity to discuss in depth their physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing, and the sense of freedom and empowerment this imparts to the individual which, combined with the knowledge of an experienced healthcare partner gives the security that your healthcare needs receive the best attention. The results then speak for themselves.

What happens during a consultation with a Medical Herbalist?

This is what you can expect when you make your first appointment with Nathalie: the first consultation is generally the longest (1 hour) as Nathalie takes a detailed medical history, covering not only your current complaint and medications, allergies and family history but also your diet and lifestyle. Physical examination may be necessary with sometimes blood pressure, pulse are taken. Nathalie will then make a diagnosis based on the findings. A programme of herbal treatment is then discussed and agreed with the patient, including an indication of how long the treatment period may be, and the level of treatment required. The duration and intensity of the herbal treatment varies according to the condition. You may be helped with changes to diet, exercise, and lifestyle.

An individually designed herbal prescription is then formulated and dispensed with appropriate instructions.

Nathalie will also very often make suggestions about other treatments if appropriate. Your progress is reviewed at intervals (30 minutes follow up appointments) and reassessed and your herbal medicine prescription changed to reflect the changes in your physiology.

Herbs may be given in various different forms (tinctures, teas, creams and syrup) according to your needs. Because herbal medicines works in a gentle and subtle way to correct internal imbalances, they can take longer to work than orthodox drugs, but their effects are long lasting and there should be no side effects.

Herbal Medicine can be used alongside conventional treatment for a wide range of common health problems and in qualified hands is a safe natural approach to health care.

For more information please visit the NIMH website.