“Herbal Medicine is the therapeutic use of plant preparations to prevent disease, enhance health and alleviate suffering.” – New Zealand Association of Medical Herbalists.
Plants (and plant medicine) have innate intelligence. They offer a beautiful gift to the inhabitants of Earth. Medicinal plants are used by medical herbalists for the sole purpose of assisting with the healing and recovery process from dis-ease or injury and to enhance wellbeing.
What Do Herbalists Do?
The approach for herbalists is one of unity, working together to achieve balance and harmony. Herbal medicine is a gentle, supportive aid to bring your body back in to balance.
My role as a medical herbalist is to identify and remove the obstacles impeding health. I use herbs to provide support to your body as it regenerates and self heals. During a client consultation, I see signs which indicate areas in need of balance or support.
For example, a client presents with asthma triggered by dust and animal dander. I would look to herbs that offer anti-allergic actions, support the airways and reduce inflammation.
In herbal medicine, there are many different herbs that could be suitable for someone. However, each herb is specially chosen based on the clients individuality. There are safety considerations, taste preferences and the overall strength of the body I weigh up when prescribing herbs.
Prescribing Herbal Medicine
As a medical herbalist, I am formally trained in the prescribing and dispensing of therapeutic plant medicine. Herbalists prescribe herbs for internal use like dried tea blends, powders or herbal liquid extracts. Herbal creams and balms for external use are another treatment option.
The magic is in the dose! Each herb has a therapeutic range. This is the amount of herb required to offer it’s healing gift for you. Some herbs may be better suited than others. Herbalists look for ‘indications’ of which herb is best for the client.
For example, you tend to run a little cold in body temperature – cooling herbs like globe artichoke might be too chilly for you. A warmer herb like cinnamon is better for digestive support in this case.
Safety when using herbal medicine is important, so always consult a qualified herbalist before taking herbs medicinally at home.
I always check for allergies and potential medication interactions when preparing your unique herbal formula. I also consider if you are breastfeeding, pregnant or trying to conceive. Some herbs are safe, while others are best avoided.
You can be assured that when herbal medicine is given and taken correctly, it is a safe treatment option.
Benefits of Herbal Medicine
Medicinal plants when used safely can offer many health benefits. Herbs are powerful, this cannot be underestimated.
Herbal medicine may help with digestive support, restorative sleep, enhanced immunity, improved cognition and more. Further, they also contain nutrients like minerals and vitamins which aid in improving your overall wellbeing.
I use different herbs to target different health concerns. For example, echinacea for immunity or chamomile for calming the nervous system, and ashwagandha for adrenal support.
Acute issues like flu, coughs and colds are especially well suited for herbal formulas. I have dispensed many flu formulas over the winter months and every client has been happy with the result.
There are endless options and variety within herbal medicine. This is what I love the most about herbal medicine – there is something suitable for anyone that can offer support and benefit.
Work With Me
If what I have written today has spoken true to you, then answer your inner knowing and get in touch today.
I offer a free 15 minute discovery call where we can start to make a plan for your journey to wellness. A link to my contact page is here.
Women who are seeking support to attain inner balance and harmony with vibrant physical health are invited to join my Facebook group: Flourishing Feminine.
Lots of love,
Natasha xx