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

Herbal Consultations

Medical Herbalists are trained in the same diagnostic skills as orthodox medical doctors and a consultation follows much the same lines, including arranging for diagnostic laboratory tests when needed.

However, herbalists take a more holistic approach to illness, where the underlying cause of the problem is looked for and treated rather than just the symptoms alone. For example, there may be toxic overload in the body where the eliminative organs, such as the liver or kidneys, are functioning in a less than optimal way. Dietary and life style factors may be addressed in this individualised approach. Nutritional supplements may be suggested to support the work of the herbs.

Consulting the Herbalist - What to Expect

The first consultation will takes from 45 minutes to an hour during which notes are taken to build up a picture of your health and decide on a course of treatment. It is usual to do an examination, such as sounding the chest, where necessary, and includes standard tests such as blood pressure monitoring. Herbs are then dispensed as an individual prescription for your particular health problem. Usually these are made up as herbal liquid tincture or as dried herbs, and sometimes tablets or capsules. Herbal Creams, ointments, suppositories, or oils may also be given, to use externally where appropriate.

A second consultation usually follows a few weeks later, and lasts about half an hour, to assess your progress, and to amend the herbal prescription as necessary. Further consultations take place as agreed, depending on the person and the illness concerned, with longer intervals between the visits. Repeat prescriptions can be dispensed.

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