What is Herbal Medicine?

Herbs are plants that are used to maintain health and well being and to promote recovery from disease. Cultures throughout the world have at various times in history used herbs as the basis for their healthcare systems.

Herbal Medicine is the oldest medicine known to us and is still the most widely used form of medicine worldwide. Today, modern scientific research is adding to our traditional knowledge of the healing power of plants.

What are the differences between pharmaceutical and herbal medicine?

Plants with medicinal properties contain many chemicals. Some pharmaceutical drugs are based on a single active chemical that has been taken from the plant and then synthesised in a laboratory.

These drugs may have undesirable side-effects. Herbalists believe that medicines made from the whole plant and containing perhaps hundreds of naturally occurring chemicals are more gentle and balanced.

The Herbalists Approach

Medical Herbalists are trained in the same diagnostic skills as doctors and undergo a 4 year course of study. Herbalists will look for the cause of ill health and then treat that.

What can Herbal Medicine Treat?

Almost any condition that might take a patient to their doctor. The gentle nature of herbal medicine means that it is suitable for patients of all ages.