FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What can herbal medicine treat?
Herbal medicine can help with most conditions. My training allowes me to recognise when herbal medication can be used safely or where it may be necessary for you to consult your GP or another therapy first. Herbs can always offer support. Below are some commonly treated conditions. The list is by no means conclusive.
Skin - eczema, psoriasis, fungal infections.
Nervous system - depression, anxiety, insomnia, dementia, migraines, stress.
Respiratory - asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, persistent colds or flu, hayfever.
Cardiovascular and circulatory - high blood pressure, high cholesterol, haemorrhoids, varicose veins, congestive heart failure, angina.
Digestive - IBS, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulosis, acid reflux, candidosis, constipation, diarrhoea, hepatitis, diabetes, ulcers.
Urinary - cystitis, persistent bladder infections.
Reproductive system - polycystic ovary syndrome, fibroids, endometriosis, painful menstruation, thrush, PMS, menopause, infertility, benign prostate hyperplasia and erectile dysfuntion.
Musculoskeletal system - rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout.
General wellbeing, chronic fatigue syndrome, fybromyalgia, thyroid function, allergies, detox and cancer support.
2. Can I take my herbal medicine alongside my prescription medication?
Most herbs can be taken alongside your prescribed medication. During your first consultation I will ask about your current medication and keep this in mind when putting together your herbal remedy. Harmful interactions between herbal medicine and orthodox medications are rare.
3. How do I take my herbal medicine?
Your herbal medication may be in the form of a tincture, herbal tea, tablet, powder, cream or lotion but most importantly it will be according to your needs. Full instructions are enclosed with your herbs.
4. Can children take herbal medicine?
Herbal medicine is suitable for babies and children of all ages since it is a gentle treatment to which we all respond.
5. How long will I need to use herbal medicine?
At your first consultation I will clarify how long your treatment may need to last. However, during the treatment you may find that your health improves quicker than expected. Monthly visits are normal and for long term treatments a visit every three months may be adequate.
6. How does herbal medicine work?
Herbs work to restore balance within the body by stimulating certain functions or relaxing them where necessary. Herbs are selected to build and strengthen the body's natural responses to ailments in order to heal itself more efficiently. Most herbs have numerous therapeutic effects within the body.
Every herbal medicine mixture is tailored to the individual's needs. And since we are all different most herbal medicine mixtures will be different too. The herbalist has a selection of roots, flowers, barks, leaves and roots available to help with your healing process.
7. What is the College of Practitioners of Phytotherapy (CPP)?
The CPP is a professional membership organisation of western medical herbalists that sets the highest standards of practice in herbal medicine. Established in 1991, it has members in 11 countries including Australia, South Africa and the USA.
All members are required to participate in a professional training scheme updating them with the latest scientific developments in medical and herbal research. All members are fully insured.