What Is Herbal Medicine?
Herbal medicine is the practice of using plants or plant-based compounds to improve health and well-being. The plants used in herbal medicine have been valued for their healing properties for thousands of years, with many having been passed down through generations. Today, modern scientific research and clinical trials support many of these traditional uses, confirming the effectiveness of herbs in promoting health and treating various conditions.
Who Are Medical Herbalists?
A Medical Herbalist, also called a Phytotherapist, is a highly trained healthcare professional who specialises in the use of plants to treat illnesses. A qualified Medical Herbalist holds a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree or equivalent in Herbal Medicine and has studied both orthodox medicine and plant medicine. This means they are trained in the same diagnostic skills as a General Practitioner (GP), but their treatment methods are plant-based and holistic.
One of the key differences between herbalists and conventional doctors is the approach to treatment. While a GP might focus primarily on treating symptoms, a herbalist works to understand and address the underlying cause of illness. This holistic perspective looks at the person as a whole – their lifestyle, diet, emotional well-being, and environment – to develop a personalised treatment plan.
What Conditions Can Herbal Medicine Treat?
Herbal medicine can be used to support a wide range of health issues. Some of the most common conditions treated with herbal remedies include:
- Digestive issues (such as IBS or indigestion)
- Stress and anxiety
- Sleep disorders
- Skin conditions (like eczema or acne)
- Respiratory conditions (such as asthma or bronchitis)
- Hormonal imbalances (including menopause and menstrual issues)
- Joint and muscle pain (such as arthritis)
One of the reasons herbal medicine is so versatile is because it aims to restore balance in the body, strengthening the body’s natural ability to heal itself. Herbalists carefully select plants that support the body’s overall functioning, rather than merely addressing isolated symptoms.
Herbal Medicine for All Ages
Herbal medicine is gentle enough to be suitable for all ages, including children. Many parents turn to herbal remedies for their children because they are generally well-tolerated, with fewer side effects compared to conventional medications. Children often respond very well to the gentle actions of herbs, especially for conditions like colic, teething, or childhood anxiety.
Is Herbal Medicine Safe?
When used correctly, herbal medicine is generally safe and effective. A qualified Medical Herbalist is trained to understand how herbs interact with the body and with other medications, which ensures that the prescribed remedies are safe to use alongside conventional treatments.
However, it’s important to remember that herbs are powerful and can cause side effects if not used properly. That’s why it's essential to consult a qualified practitioner rather than self-prescribing. Herbalists understand the correct dosages, how to mix herbs safely, and whether certain herbs might be unsuitable based on your current health or medications.
The Holistic Approach to Health
The core principle of herbal medicine is its holistic approach. Herbalists don’t just treat a single symptom – they consider the whole person. This means that, in addition to herbal remedies, they often provide lifestyle advice, including recommendations for diet, exercise, and stress management, to support the body’s healing process. By addressing these factors, herbal medicine seeks to improve overall well-being, not just the symptoms of a specific illness.
Which practitioner should you see?
Elaine Everitt has been awarded a first class BSc Hons in Herbal Medicine.