About Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine integrates scientific medical understanding with the healing properties of medicinal plants to treat ill health and promote overall well-being.
Plants contain a wide variety of chemical compounds, many of which have been found to have medicinal properties. In fact, numerous pharmaceutical drugs have their origins in plant compounds. These medicinally active plant constituents can have a range of effects on the human body, from alleviating symptoms to promoting overall health and well-being.
Herbal medicine uses a holistic approach to treatment, addressing symptoms at their root cause as well as the underlying cause of ill health, while also promoting the body’s own natural healing. It is very effective, gentle and safe. It builds on the traditional knowledge of the healing power of plants used for centuries in Ireland and elsewhere in the world, with a growing body of scientific research and clinical trials demonstrating their effectiveness and how they work within our bodies. Herbal medicine is suitable for everyone and can be used to treat various health issues, from acute and chronic conditions to minor ailments, for example allergies, coughs and colds, digestion, energy / stamina, headache, heart/circulation, immune support, joint pain, menopause, menstruation issues, skin, sleep difficulty, stress/anxiety/low mood and urinary infections.
As well as an in-depth knowledge of plant medicine, medical herbalists are trained with a high level of clinical skills such as diagnostic skills, taking blood pressure, physical examination, herb-drug (medication) interactions, as well as being fully licensed to prescribe high-strength herbs for internal use.
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Following your consultation, a herbal formula is prescribed specifically for you and your needs, taking into account any medication you may already be taking. A herbal prescription can be given in many ways e.g.
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tinctures (alcohol/water extraction)
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herbal teas
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syrups
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capsules (containing powdered herbs)
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powders (which can be mixed with water or yogurt)
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creams/ointments for topically application.
Herbal medicine provides a much-needed choice in helping you look after your health and well-being. In 2013 the World Health Organisation launched the WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy 2014-2023 to support member states in strengthening the role traditional medicine plays in keeping populations healthy through two key goals: (1) to harness the contribution that disciplines like herbal medicine can make towards health and wellbeing, and (2) to do so safely through regulation of practices, practitioners and products.
As a fully qualified and insured medical herbalist, with degree-level qualification accredited by the National Institute of Medical Herbalists (NIMH), the UK’s leading professional body for herbal practitioner’s, I can offer you that effective and safe healthcare choice.