What is herbal medicine?

Herbal medicine is the use of plant remedies to treat people who are unwell. pestle and mortarThe herbalist trained in Western Herbal Medicine in contrast to, for example Traditional Chinese Medicine, would make the same kind of diagnosis you would get from an orthodox physician, but would also take into account your individual constitution, diet and lifestyle.

Any treatment you are having from your own doctor is also considered carefully to ensure that your orthodox and herbal treatments are fully complementary. The herbalist then helps you to get better by using prescriptions tailored to your individual requirements, such as herbal teas, tinctures, tablets and creams. Treatment also includes advice on diet and lifestyle.

What can herbal medicine treat?

Herbal medicine can treat almost any condition that patients might take to their doctor.

Common complaints seen by herbalists include skin problems such as psoriasis, acne and eczema, digestive disorders such as peptic ulcer and irritable bowel syndrome, heart and circulation problems such as angina, high blood pressure and varicose veins, gynaecological problems such as premenstrual and menopausal problems, joint and muscle problems such as arthritis, conditions affecting your breathing such as asthma and urinary problems such as kidney stones.

Another major consideration is the mind and there is an important group of herbs with useful influences on mood, stress, memory and cognitive function. Qualified herbalists know when a condition is best seen by a doctor or another therapist.

The herbs

At Eva Botanicals we use only the highest quality herbal products from the best UK suppliers. We also grow our own organic herbs in Cumbria alongside our organic vegetables.

Eva's herbalist

Michael Simpson MNIMH trained in herbal medicine at the Scottish School of Herbal Medicine in Glasgow and is a Member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists. The National Institute was established in 1864 and is the oldest body of practising medical herbalists in the world. All members have undergone a four-year training and adhere to a strict professional code of ethics.

Your consultation

Your first consultation lasts about an hour and a half, during which the herbalist gets to know you and builds a picture of your state of health by asking questions and taking notes. He will take your blood pressure and check your pulse. During the consultation a treatment strategy will be devised and discussed with you and one or more herbal medicines will be prescribed and prepared for you. The main medicine is often a mixture of tinctures, which are alcohol extracts of herbs, taken in small doses mixed with water. Follow-up consultations, if required, would normally last half an hour.

To make an appointment:
e-mail us
or tel:016977-41906