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Herbal Medicine is the use of plant remedies in the treatment of illness and disease. It represents the oldest form of medicine known to man.
Despite being classified as alternative or complementary in this country herbal medicine is still the most widely practiced form of medicine in the world today. Approximately 80% of the world's population still rely upon herbs for their medicines.
Medical Herbalists receive training in the same diagnostic skills as orthodox practitioners. they are trained to a high standards in subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pathology and pharmacology and view health and illness in the same context. However, their approach to the treatment off ill health differs in that it is much more holistic, recognising the importance of looking at all the patient's circumstances as opposed to individualised symptoms.
An herbalist will seek to identify the underlying cause (or causes) of a problem, therefore addressing it at its most fundamental level.
Modern herbalist's combine the knowledge and wisdom gained from centuries of use of plant remedies with valuable information gained from modern scientific research to provide a therapy which is both safe and effective.
Plant medicines are close in nature to the food you eat. Because of this herbalists believe that they are easy for the body to assimilate and produce few side effects. they have a long history of safe use.
Herbal Medicine treats the patient as well as the disease, using the whole herb for the whole person. In this way it can bring about a deep and lasting change and balance can be restored.
The initial consultation last approximately an hour and a half and includes taking a full medical case history, which looks not only at the current complaint but also details of your past medical history, diet and lifestyle.
Each person is unique and the aim is to build as full a picture of you as possible to help identify underlying causes to problems. Medicines are then dispensed and advice given on diet and lifestyle where necessary.
Follow up consultations last approximately 45 min's and are aimed at checking progress and adjusting medicines as necessary - as your condition changes and improves so your bodies requirements will change and this will be reflected in the medicine.
Most medicines are dispensed as liquid alcohol tinctures. Some dried herbs may be used as well as creams, juices, syrups and tablets. Each prescription is made to suit the individual.
As a Medical Herbalist Mary has undergone a four year, degree level course covering both the theory and practice of medicine. Mary is a member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists and the College of Practitioners of Phytotherapy. These represent well recognized governing bodies, who strive to maintain high standards in both education and ongoing training for their members. All members are bound by a strict professional code of ethics.
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