Herbal medicine is the oldest and still the most widely used system of medicine in the world today. It is medicine made exclusively from plants.  It used in all societies and is common in all cultures.

Herbal medicine is increasingly being validated by scientific investigation which seeks to understand the active chemistry of the plant. 

Using plants as medicine provides significant advantages for treating many conditions.  The therapeutic activity of a plant is due to its complex chemical nature with different parts of the plant providing certain therapeutic effects.

A medical herbalist:

·    is highly trained in the philosophies, principles and practice of western herbal medicine and medical science

·    takes a holistic view towards health and illness

·    will assess you as a person and not a disease

·    prescribes and dispenses plant medicines in a safe and effective manner

·    seeks to treat the underlying cause of disease

·    acknowledges the body’s innate ability to heal itself

·    aims to prevent disease and restore health

·    provides dietary and lifestyle advice

·    maintains high standards of professional practice

·    is and authoritative source of information about natural medicine

Consultation

A comprehensive consultation includes:

·    a detailed case history

·    individually prescribed and dispensed herbal medicines

·    clear dosage instructions

·    dietary and lifestyle advice

·    confidentiality

·    professionalism

Duration of treatment varies according to the individual and their condition.  Improvement in symptoms should be noted within hours to a day for acute complaints such as a cold or flu, or within 4-6 weeks for chronic complaints.  Chronic problems are particularly suited to treatment with herbal medicines.

Benefits of Herbal Medicines

Herbal medicine can treat a wide range of conditions.  Common complaints seen by herbalists include:

·      skin problems – such as psoriasis, acne and eczema

·      digestive disorders – such as peptic ulcers, colitis, irritable bowel syndrome and indigestion

·      Problems involving the heart and circulation – such as angina, high blood pressure, varicose veins, varicose ulcers etc.

·      Gynaecological disorders – such as premenstrual syndrome and menopausal problems

·      Arthritis

·      Insomnia

·      Stress, Depression & Anxiety

·      Migraine & Headaches

·      Tonsillitis, influenza and allergic responses like hay fever and asthma

Herbal Medicine for the treatment of Depression & Anxiety

There are many natural herbs that are natural anti-depressants, as well as stress relievers and anxiety reduces.  Many of them have been shown in clinical studies to significantly reduce the feeling of depression, as well as treating panic and anxiety disorders.

Some common herbal treatments for depression and anxiety are:

St John’s Wort – is the leading herbal remedy for depression & anxiety.  It is useful for depressive states, fear and nervous disturbances. 

Ginkgo Biloba - one of the oldest medicinal herbs, ginkgo increases oxygen to the brain promoting feelings of well-being and reducing depression & anxiety

Passion Flower – a natural sedative and mood enhances that can help treat feelings of depression as well as general anxiety and restlessness

Piperine – an alkaloid found in black pepper and similar plants, piperine is a natural antidepressant and serotonin enhancer

Rhodiola – also called rosewood, rhodiola is used to treat depression and has anti-stress as well as anti-anxiety capabilities