Herbal Medicine

Herbal medicine has been practised throughout the world since ancient times and according to the World Health Organisation, it is still the most commonly used form of medicine across the globe.

The healing power of plants was discovered by our ancestors through experimentation and observation, and in recent times, research and science has allowed us to identify the chemical constituents within plants and their actions, providing us with a more advanced understanding of plant medicine and its uses.

We have always relied on plants for food and nourishment to sustain the body, and so we could think of herbal medicine in the same way. Herbal medicines are made from various plant materials including leaves, flowers, roots or berries. They contain thousands of plant constituents which have a multitude of different chemical actions. Different plants have an affinity for particular organs or systems of the body and so may be used to replenish health and vitality to those parts. Herbs encourage the body’s natural tendency to strive for health, aiding elimination, increasing resistance and restoring balance and vitality.

Medical Herbalists undergo a rigorous four year training programme which includes 500 hours of clinical training. Medical Herbalists are required to adhere to a strict code of ethics, have full professional insurance and partake in continuing professional development.

Medical Herbalists receive the same training in diagnostic skills as Medical Doctors, however, Medical Herbalists have a more holistic approach to illness. The aim of treatment is to establish the underlying cause of an illness, rather than treating the symptoms alone, and to rebalance and strengthen the system as a whole.

All herbal medicines dispensed from my clinic are made from fresh wild-crafted and organic plant material. On the rare occasion they are not, this is simply because they cannot be sourced however will still be of the best quality possible.