Author of “The Women’s Guide to Herbal Medicine"

FAQ's on Herbal Medicine

Q; How long do the herbs take to work?

A: Length of treatment depends on the condition and how long-standing it is. A course of herbal medicine will sometimes take several months for a lasting health improvement. A rule of thumb would be a month for every year of the illness.

You will usually feel better within a few weeks however, and experience further gradual improvement as you progress. Recent or acute conditions resolve much more quickly, of course. Sometimes people choose to take herbs in the long term, as a gentler alternative to some pharmaceutical drugs.

Q: Are they safe?

A: In the hands of a qualified practitioner who is trained in correct prescribing, the herbs are safe, and are always well within maximum dosages as set by the training body. If there are any contra-indications, these are taken into account during the consultation. The use of herbs is not usually recommended in pregnancy, as a safeguard.

Q: What complaints can herbal medicine treat?

A: Health Concerns that Herbs can Treat:

• gynaecological disorders: premenstrual syndrome, period problems, menopause, fibroids, endometriosis, P.C.O.S, conception difficulties,
    
• digestive disorders: peptic ulcers , colitis, I.B.S. and indigestion,
    
• respiratory disorders: chest infections and breathing difficulties,
    
• infections: tonsillitis and influenza, childhood infections,
    
• heart and circulatory problems: angina, high blood pressure, varicose veins etc
    
• arthritis and muscular problems,
    
• stress, anxiety, depression, migraines and insomnia,
    
• allergic responses like hives and hay fever,
    
• skin problems: acne, psoriasis, eczema.
    

Q: What about the quality of the herbs?

A: The herbs are all from reputable U.K suppliers that have been in business for over twenty years. The herbs are organically grown where possible, or wild crafted carefully, and pesticides are not used. Threatened plant species are not on the list, or they are grown in a sustainable way. Organic herbs carry the U.K Soil Association seal of approval. Creams do not contain chemical parabens as preservatives.

Q: Can I take herbal medicine when I am medication from my doctor?

A: Any possible interaction between drugs and herbs will be taken into account and it may be that some herbs would be avoided in certain cases. It is recommended to take pharmaceutical medication and herbal medication at least 25-30 minutes apart, to avoid conflict of the constituents in the stomach. Liquid herbal preparations are quickly absorbed, so better taken before any other medication.