Does is work?
Herbal medicine is the oldest form of medicine and records go back over thousands of years. Many modern medicines used by orthodox medicine have their origins of in plants.
Herbal medicines are generally safer with fewer side effects. Herbal medicine practiced by herbalists today, draws on this historical knowledge and combines modern research being carried out on herbs to make our treatment strategies even safer and more effective.
What are the Medicines?
Herbal medicines can be dispensed in a number of different ways. Herbalists make their medicines uniquely for each patient so every patient will take away a different medicine.
Typical medicines will consist of a tincture, that is, a liquid herbal extract that the herbalist will blend from a number herbs chosen for that person. As well as tinctures, your herbal medicine may consist of teas, creams, soaps, shampoos, pills or a host of other types of preparations. The most important thing here is that, a qualified herbalist does not rely on ready made over the counter mixtures, but makes the medicine for each individuals own needs.
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Is it safe?
Natural is not necessarily the same as safe. Foxglove used to be used as a medicinal plant, but used incorrectly it can be fatal. Herbalists do not use foxglove but instead have other herbs that treat safely. In fact, today, the use of foxglove is illegal.
Qualified herbalists are trained in the safe use of herbs. When preparing your prescription, herbalists consider your own unique health circumstances, any drugs your are currently being prescribed plus all the latest safety data on the herbs in your prescription. The level of training and consideration given to our patients mean that medical herbalists have an excellent safety record.
NB. If in doubt about any herbal medicine, always consult a qualified Medical Herbalist.
What about herbal quality?
Herbal medicine quality and safety are linked. My herbs are sourced from highly ethical and rigorously tested sources in accordance with good medicinal practice. Herbal quality is of such importance to me, that I cover this in more detail on my herbal quality page. If you are interested in how other herbalists and myself as a practicing herbalist take this matter, click here to see more information on this subject.
Can I self prescribe?
Yes you can but there are problems with self medication. The variety of ready made and branded herbal medicines can be confusing and quality can be extremely variable. Beware of brands that seem to deliver ever cheaper products, it is cheap for a reason. Herbalists source their medicines for quality, which I have discussed separately on the herbal quality page.
Self prescribing can also be difficult if your health situation is complicated or orthodox treatments are being used at the same time. Herbalists are trained to take this into account and prescribe safely.
NB. If in doubt about any herbal medicine, always consult a qualified Medical Herbalist.
