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What is
Western Herbal Medicine?
Western Herbal Medicine
is a treatment system based on the idea that
plant-based medicines can be used in their natural,
unmodified forms to help the body while it heals.
It has its roots in the traditional medical
practices of Europe, and generally relies on
orthodox, or Western, methods of diagnosis. Most
herbalists take into account the complete
physiological and psychological make-up of an
individual along with their environment and
lifestyle during treatment. Herbalists prescribe
whole-plant products in the form of tinctures, teas,
oils, creams, or ointments which are tailored to the
individual patient. Many herbalists believe
that whole-plant medicines are gentler on the body
than some other kinds of treatments and may be safer
for use in some instances. |
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Herbal Medicine is one of the worlds oldest
systems of medicine, and has been practiced
for many thousands of years across many
cultures. Until the mid-20th century, most
physicians relied in some part on plant
medicines to treat their patients, and today
up to 80% of people in Asia, Africa and
South America still use traditional
medicines as part of their primary care. In
fact 25% of modern pharmaceutical medicines
are still made from plants but have been
specially modified to treat certain
conditions. |
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The herbal
industry is worth £30 billion a year globally, but much of
this is comprised of over-the-counter sales. When you
choose a
qualified
Medical Herbalist
you can rest safely knowing that your herbalist has been
extensively trained in plant chemistry, anatomy and
physiology, clinical medicine, herbal medicine, and modern
diagnostic techniques. Your herbalist will be able to
assess whether your treatment will interfere with your other
prescriptions, and adjust your herbal treatment accordingly.
Additionally, your herbalist will not hesitate work with
your GP or other health-care professionals, should you so
require.
What Can Western Herbal Medicine Do For Me?
Herbalists treat many of the complaints that a GP might
treat, although they will refer you back to your physician,
if necessary. Common complaints treated with herbal
medicines include eczema,
acne, asthma,
hay fever, polycystic ovaries,
ME, sinusitis,
IBS,
acid reflux,
dyspepsia,
constipation,
arthritis,
menopausal symptoms,
period pains,
insomnia,
mild depression,
stress,
and chronic fatigue.
Although these are the most commonly treated conditions,
herbal medicine can be used for many different conditions,
not limited to those above. Herbal medicine is also very
helpful for many childrens’
complaints and can be used in
many of the illnesses experienced by the
elderly. Your herbalist is
happy work together with your other primary care
practitioners in cases of more serious illness.
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