THE DORSET NATURAL HEALTH CLINIC

Medical Herbalism

About Herbal Medicine

The aim of herbal medicine is to use plant extracts to assist the body in healing itself. The basic principle is to correct underlying imbalances within the body as well as relieving the symptoms.

Herbal medicine has a long history of use and these days, the safety and effectiveness of herbs are frequently confirmed by scientific research. It can be used alongside most prescribed medicines, if need be and is suitable for all ages, including young children and the elderly.

About Consultations

The purpose of herbal consultation is to thoroughly explore a patient's condition and treat it in a safe and supervised environment. It gives people reassurance and personal guidance whilst taking a course of herbal medicine.

The first consultation is approximately an hour long and follow-ups are 30 mins.

During a consultation, the herbalist explores the patient's presenting complaint, their diet, lifestyle, past medical history, medication history, and will then investigate how each of their body systems are working, by asking a series of questions about each system. Following this, a clinical examination may be carried out, if necessary, with the patient's permission.

Treatment

Following the consultation, a herbal prescription is made up, usually in the form of a tincture. Herbal teas may also be prescribed.

For certain complaints, such as skin conditions or joint problems, a cream, lotion or oil may be prescribed in addition to the main medicine.

The length of treatment varies from person to person. It depends on how long you have been unwell and the nature of the condition.

Follow-up consultations are needed to review and assess the progress of the treatmnet, give further advice and alter the medicine if necessary.

What can herbal medicine help?

Herbal medicine can often be beneficial in a wide range of illnesses from minor ailments to more chronic diseases.

Some commonly treated conditions include:

Your therapist

Catherine Marshall MNIMH BSc. studied Herbal Medicine for three years at the University of Central Lancashire and is a member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists.

Prices

First consultation £40

Follow-up consultations £20

Prescriptions

Tincture (per 100ml) £4.50

Tea (per 100g) £2.50

[ Home ] [ Up ]

Last modified: July 06, 2007