What is herbal medicine?
Western herbal medicine combines the science of modern medicine with the knowledge gained from centuries of use of traditional plant based remedies.
Many of the chemical compositions used to make medicinal drugs are derived from plants. Herbal medicine generally has less side effects and are non-addictive.
Ancient Tradition
Herbal medicine is an ancient tradition whose history can be traced back to the time of the Egyptians. Before modern medicine it was the only medicine in the western world. It was used by the Native Americans and is widely used in Europe and other countries around the world.
How does herbal medicine work?
Herbal medicine uses the seeds, stems, flowers, roots and leaves of plants to treat illness, improve health and prevent disease.
Herbal medicine works on the whole person by taking into account the medical history of the patient, the current symptoms, emotional and mental health and / or any spiritual issues to formulate a holistic bespoke prescription. I use whole plant extracts in tinctures, creams, teas, capsules and ointments and a lot of the plants that I use grow in the UK.
The signs and symptoms are the body’s way of communicating an imbalance. Herbal medicine aims to work on the symptoms while getting to the root cause, which can often be complex.
Digestive health, autonomic nervous system balance, overall organ health and endocrine balance will all be considered as part of the consultation, as imbalances or dysfunction can have a profound effect on the body. For example by balancing the nervous system the person begins to feel more energised, able to cope with life again, increased confidence, less tension and once the balance is maintained many of the symptoms disappear.
The patient’s emotional state is really important when working to bring the body back into a state of balance and would be a key part of the treatment plan. As part of the consultation I try to encourage my patients to open up to me as talking is a key part of healing. I ask them to talk about what has caused them stress and anxiety in the past or present and how they dealt with it.
Some patients want to come for frequent follow up consultations as they find that talking is a huge part of their healing. This really depends on the patient. I am very flexible with my approach. I will direct patients to find the right treatment plan for them. This may be one consultation only and follow up prescriptions and a quick phone call here and there. The most important part of the treatment is the first consultation, as without that I don’t have a full picture of the patient.
Herbal medicine is not a magical cure, but it’s a great starting point. The plants work with the body’s own natural healing mechanisms to restore healthy tissue and bring the body back into balance. The patient is involved with each aspect of the process, which is empowering for them and it helps them to understand their own healing and how they became out of balance.
How much does herbal medicine cost?
Herbal Medicine consultations cost £65 for 60-90mins (in person and via Zoom)
During this hour, I will:
- make a thorough investigation of the problem that is concerning you
- review your different organ systems to get a picture of your overall health
- review your prescription drugs and supplements
- assess your diet and make recommendations as to how to improve it
- devise a treatment strategy
- write a personal prescription of herbs
- dispense a mixture of herbs
Repeat medication can be ordered on my telephone day
- I have a telephone day every Monday when people ring up to order more medicine and let me know how they are getting on.
- A quick chat to update me about your progress is free
- This means that all you pay for is your herbal medicine and the cost of postage.
- If we need longer than 10-minutes to talk about how you are doing, then this should be booked in advance and will be charged for.
If you have any questions about herbal medicine with me, medication or anything else, please don’t hesitate to call me on 07963 512 046 or use the contact form.
Herbal Medicine costs
Initial consultation
£65 for 60-90mins – in person or via Zoom
Follow up Consultations
An hour costs £45
Half an hour costs £30
Fifteen minutes costs £15
Dispensed medication
100ml of herbal medicine costs £11 and lasts for one week
The cost works out at less than £1.57 per day.
I usually dispense enough medicine to last for four weeks at a time.
Typically, you will pay for four week’s herbal medicine at £44 plus the consultation costs.
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