Holistic Herbal Medicine
in the 21st Century
and Herbal Q&A
Herbal medicine, or plant based medicine is a part of every culture, including, if you think about it, the plants we eat as part of our diet. Some foods are great for us, some are not and some can be used as food and medicine. As western herbalists we inherited a shared tradition which encompassed European, American and Greek herbal medicines. In the last few decades the use of Indian and Chinese herbs, used as single herbs rather than part of formulas has become common.
Current herbal practice incorporates the empirical (tried and tested) herbal knowledge along with insights from botanical and scientific tests and trials, which often expands our knowledge beyond the traditional usage. As someone trained in the traditional and scientific paradigms, I have no problem leaning on tradition or embracing the latest research.
Holistic is a term I apply to the approach to the client’s needs, taking into account their full story, history, origins and beliefs. For instance, some people do not want to take herbal extracts made with alcohol. That’s fine. I use many preparations including: teas, extracts, tablets, dried herbs, essential oils, flower essences and food as medicine. A holistic diagnosis and treatment respects the individual and the herbs prescribed reflect an acknowledgement of the physical, emotional, psychological, cultural and spiritual or religious views of the client.
Herbal prescriptions follow on from a first consultation with a client, where all the necessary information is gathered. The first prescription may be adjusted, or not, depending on the response of the client, or in light of new information or changes in the health or lifestyle issues being supported.
Herbal Q & A
What do herbs taste like as extracts?
Strong, not so good, but usually just a teaspoonful in cold water and it’s done.
Why are the herbal extracts strong tasting?
Typically there is one part of herb to two parts of diluted alcohol. Sometimes they are roots only and taste earthy, sometimes leaves and taste aromatic.
Why alcohol?
The constituents of some plants are best extracted in alcohol.
Do my herbs need to be in alcohol?
No. There are herbs that are best taken as a tea, or boiled tea (decoction). Many herbs are available in capsules or made into tablets. As a professional herbalist, I usually don’t endorse over the counter herbs, preferring to use higher quality practitioner only products.
How long does it take to notice an effect from herbs?
Sometimes it’s instant, for example, inhalations to support the respiratory system.
Usually, for more chronic conditions you should notice some positive change in the first month, then by three months, a significant change is expected.
Do I have to keep taking herbs for life?
It depends. Some acute conditions respond quickly and you can move forward in your life. More complex or chronic conditions, once they are managed, may require a level of herbal support over time. Some clients want a “tonic” that boosts their system, supporting underlying potential health issues (like a family history of heart disease). Others are recovering from a long term viral fatigue or chronic illness.
Are you qualified as a herbalist?
Yes, I started as a teenager sourcing my own herbs and reading books from overseas, as there were very few places to study. I later completed a Diploma of Herbalism and a degree in Biological Science with a major in Botany. I have lectured in Herbal Medicine at private colleges and university and co-authored the curriculum for the first herbal medicine program at a university in Australia. I have been a Director and Examiner for the NHAA [Naturopaths and Herbalist Association of Australia], the oldest medical professional association in Australia. My private practice has spanned over 40 years.
Book your sessions or contact me to ask any questions you have or organise a Strategy Session.
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