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Today,
80% of the world's population rely entirely on plant medicine, and
its popularity is being rapidly revived in the west.
A long history of traditional herbal practice together with modern
scientific research has created a greater confidence in the effectiveness
of herbal medicine.
Whole
plant remedies are used both internally and externally to treat
various aliments, with emphasis on enhancing the body's own recuperative
powers.
Herbs
can be used to treat many of the conditions that patients might
take to their doctor, from skin problems and digestive disorders,
to gynaecological complaints and problems with the heart and circulation.
Stress related conditions also respond well to the healing properties
of herbs. A qualified herbalist will take the time to treat the
patient as a whole, while knowing when a condition is best referred
to a doctor or another therapist.
The
consultation
The first consultation usually takes around one hour. During this
time all aspects of the patient's health are explored to build a
complete picture of the person as a whole.
In this way it is then possible to find and treat the underlying
cause of the problem presented, rather than the symptoms alone.
This is known as the holistic approach.
Following
the consultation, the patient is prescribed an individual blend
of herbal tinctures to take on a daily basis. Regular follow-up
visits, usually about half an hour in duration, are arranged to
monitor progress of the treatment.
The length of the course of treatment depends on the condition and
the patient's responsiveness to medication, but usually lasts around
three months.
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This
article has been written by
Phoebe Sampson BSc. MNIMH
Phoebe
Sampson is a fully qualified herbalist, having studied with
the College of Phytotherapy, and achieved a BSc in Herbal
Medicine.
She is a member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists
(NIMH), the oldest body of practicing herbalists in the world.
Phoebe
Sampson is currently practicing in west Cornwall. She uses
organic herbal preparations wherever possible.
For further information contact Phoebe on 07976 95 55 05 or
email her at phoebesamson@tiscali.co.uk
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