Herbalism
Herbal Medicine is a sophisticated system of healthcare based on the traditional use of herbs to promote health, combined with a modern scientific understanding of plants, disease and diagnosis.
Herbal Medicine, also known as Phytotherapy or Botanical medicine, combines an in-depth knowledge of herbs, clinical experience and skills with an understanding of medicine to treat a wide range of physical and mental- emotional disorders.
Herbs have been used since the dawn of time as medicines and, in fact, many common drugs are made from herbal extracts. Every household has at least a couple of varieties of herbs, including black tea!
Herbs and plant extracts are used as a natural and effective medicine to restore body to health, to treat diseases and prevent recurrences.
Many different forms of plants are used by a Herbalist. Most common are:
Tincture (a plant is extracted and preserved in alcohol)
Teas (dried herbs are given to make an infusion- to pour boiling water over the herbs and leave it for 10-15 min. Strain and drink several cups a day)
Powdered herbs (they can be mixed with some water/juice into a paste and taken several times a day)
Creams (used for a variety of skin conditions)
Tablets (can be a more concentrated, but are more processed form of herbal remedies)
Herbalism is widely practiced across the world and is a very accessible form of natural medicine, where herbs are prescribed for each individual with their unique health problems.
Herbalists prefer to use whole herbs or plants rather than an isolated compounds. Herbs work synergistically when they are mixed in the formulas; they can enhance or balance out each others properties and are a natural and effective medicine to restore body to balance.
Herbal Medicine can be used for:
The prevention of disease
The promotion of general well-being
Treatment of specific health problems
Increasing vitality
Reducing stress and its effects on the body
During a Herbal consultation a thorough case history will be taken including an assessment of general health, well-being and an ability to cope with stress. Information on diet and lifestyle is gathered and physical examination may be needed, including Blood pressure taking, nails analysis and tongue and pulse examination. Iridology (examining the irises) may be used. After gathering all the information, the assessment is made and nutritional and dietary advice is given, as well as lifestyle advice and supplement recommendations, including Tissue salts or other remedies, if relevant or needed. And, of course, herbal prescription is given, which can consist of tincture, tablets and/or dried herbs.