what is herbal

What is Medical Herbalism?

Herbal Medicine is the oldest form of medicine known to man and is still widely used throughout the world. In medical herbalism plants are used in a variety of preparations to treat a wide range of illnesses. Much of the knowledge used today has been passed down throughout the centuries but scientists are using modern technology to give us a greater understanding of the healing qualities the plants possess. Herbs are usually given in tincture form which is an alcoholic extraction of the plant although other forms are available. A number of different herbs will be mixed together to each individuals' requirements. Herbs may also be given in the form of teas, capsules or creams.

How do Herbs Work?
Many modern medicines are produced by isolating and synthetically reproducing a particular plant chemical. Herbalists believe, however, that the many different chemicals in the plant are tolerated to a greater degree by the body as they are assimilated in their natural form. They interact and work together to become more (or less) powerful, often countering any potential side effects. Dandelions, for instance, are often used as a diuretic to increase the flow of urine. One potentially dangerous effect of diuretics is that they cause a serious loss of potassium from the body meaning that potassium supplements must also be given. Dandelions happen to be one of the richest sources of potassium in the plant kingdom which more than makes up for any loss incurred.

What does a Medical Herbalist do?
Medical herbalists undergo a 4yr science degree training which includes similar diagnostic training as doctors. They try to have an holistic approach by identifying the underlying cause or weakness. Symptoms may be treated to ease pain or discomfort but the treatment will also be aimed at the cause and helping the body to restore it's own health and vitality.

As our food supplies us with the nourishment we need, herbs can be used to 'fine-tune' the body helping to support and restore its balance and harmony.

A Western Medical Herbalist should have the following letters after their name - MIIMH (Member of the Irish Institute of Medical Herbalist) and /or MNIMH (Member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists). These professional bodies ensure that their members have undergone adequate training and follow a strict code of professional ethics.

In my practice I try to use herbs that are organically cultivated or harvested in a sustainable manner. I also try to encourage people to return any bottles or jars to reduce waste.

What Happens in a Consultation?
Your first visit will take at least 1 hour.During this visit the practitioner will take notes on your medical history as well as your reasons for attending. Diet and lifestyle factors will be reviewed and, if necessary, a physical examination and blood pressure readings will be taken. This allows the practitioner to build up a picture of you as an individual. She will discuss any treatments she feels will be appropriate and work out a treatment plan with you. This may include diet and lifestyle advice as well as herbal remedies.
Our health is our own responsibility but a herbalist can work with you to support and guide you to achieve optimum health.

The second visit usually follows in two weeks and will take about half an hour. This is to assess any progress and to see if any adjustments need to be made. Subsequent visits, if necessary are usually made monthly, the number and frequency of visits varies with each person.

How much will it cost?
The first consultation will cost €45 and any further visits will cost €30. There will also be the cost of any medication provided which normally comes to €10 for a weeks medication.Usually 2 weeks medication is given at the first visit.

What Can Herbal Medicine Treat?
Herbs can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, in fact most conditions that people would visit their doctor about.
The following gives a sample of common conditions seen by herbalists.

Skin problems: psoriasis, acne, eczema
Digestive disorders: indigestion, IBS, colitis, peptic ulcers
Heart/circulation disorders: angina, high blood pressure, varicose veins, leg ulcers.
Menstrual problems: PMT, Menopause, heavy or painful periods.
Respiratory problems: hay fever and asthma, coughs and colds
Various: arthritis, insomnia, stress, mild depression, migraines, headaches, urinary and prostate disorders.

.The Practitioner will advise you if your condition needs to be seen by your doctor or another therapist and, under supervision, herbal medicine can often be taken alongside conventional treatment.

During the summer months, watch out for my Herb Walks, where you can see many of the herbs I use growing wild all around us.

If you would like to learn how to use these herbs to treat yourself and your family for minor, everyday complaints contact me for details of courses run throughout the year.

You may find out more about Medical Herbalism in Ireland on www.iimh.org