Herbal medicine is made from plants (for
example, Echinacea and St. John’s Wort), and has been used for thousands
of years. Medical Herbalists are trained to combine the benefits of
this traditional use with information emerging from modern scientific
research.
Medical Herbalists see people with most conditions treated by GPs
These conditions range from short-term or mild problems, to more long-term and complex.
Examples include:
• Heart and circulation problems– high blood pressure, high cholesterol, varicose veins, angina, poor memory
• Respiratory problems – asthma, hayfever, sinusitis, ear infections, bronchitis, coughs, colds
• Digestion problems – IBS, colitis, ulcers, constipation, reflux, bloating, food intolerance
• Nervous system problems – poor sleep, headaches, anxiety, depression, stress, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease
• Women’s health – PMS, period pains, cystitis, infertility,
endometriosis, PCOS, menopausal symptoms, fibroids, irregular periods
• Men’s health – prostate problems, infertility
• Musculoskeletal problems – arthritis, gout
• Skin problems – eczema, psoriasis, acne
• Immune system problems –fatigue, allergies
Why use herbs
A benefit of herbs is that they are generally well-tolerated and safe, with a gentle action, yet can be amazingly effective.
Research is increasingly uncovering the way herbs achieve their effects.
The herbalist aims to identify and address the cause of symptoms,
rather than suppress them, as symptoms are warning signs to indicate a
health problem.
A prescription of herbs is tailored to each individual, so two people
with the same condition are unlikely to be given the same combination
of herbs. Often there are many herbs which may address the problem. The
herbalist is trained to select the most appropriate for each individual,
and to combine this with other herbs to support the effect.
The herbalist is often able to select herbs in a way which allows several health issues to be addressed at the same time.
Herbs are often easily accessible –including many of the “weeds” just outside your own home!
