Herbal Medicine

What is herbal medicine?

Herbal medicine is a specialist area of naturopathy. It requires specific training as a medical herbalist that offers another form of treatment that can be incorporated in the treatment plan.

What is the history of herbal medicine?

Herbal medicine has been used in the western world for more than 400 years and also throughout the world by traditional healers. Chinese herbal medicine is termed “TCM” – Traditional Chinese Medicine.

How does herbal medicine differ from orthodox medicine?

Science has focused on using the single parts of plants for the development of drugs. An example is the development of aspirin from Salicylic acid from the Willow species. These are then synthesized in a chemical process in a lab. However, herbalists know that individual parts of the herb are not equal to the whole plant. Nature intended us to use the whole plant and that’s why herbal medicine integrates all parts of the herb to ensure greater safety and high efficacy.

Are herbs safe for everyone?

Herbal medicine is a very safe and effective form of treatment. Medical herbalists are trained professionals. They consider important aspects during a consultation. These might include if the person is on medication, if they have extending circumstances such as pregnancy before prescribing. For best results a consultation is recommended.

Can all health conditions be treated with herbal medicine?

Many health conditions can be treated with herbs. From acute colds and flus to chronic fatigue, PMS, digestive problems – the list is endless.
An herbal prescription is chosen for an individual depending on the type of condition that needs treating. All herbs have more than one desired affect. For example St John’s wort is an excellent herb for low moods but equally it is an excellent herb for viral infections and cold sores.
During a consultation herbs are chosen for a desired affect and blended to complement each other and the person. Herbal medicine can be taken as liquid extracts, teas, tablets, suppositories, pessaries or blended into creams. Tablet forms are becoming more popular as this often means better compliance

Where do the herbs come from?

I use different herbs from varying traditions: New Zealand native herbs, traditional Western herbs, traditional Chinese, Indian and North American herbs. There are many different herbs from different countries or traditions. We have a wide variety of Maori herbs such as Manuka and Horopito. Traditional western herbs; Chamomile and Calendula. Avervedic herbs; Ashwaghanda and Andrographis. Chinese herbs; Ginseng and Rehmannia.

How do I find out what herbs are best for me?

I recommend a consultation where all aspects of your health; past and present are considered. An individual herbal formula will be blended during the consultation with specific instructions. Herbal treatments are always given within a consult along with other dietary and lifestyle advice.
Natural Health Consulting uses only the best herbs available. We select suppliers such as Professional Herb Services and Phytomed. All their herbs are quality assured. These companies test their herbs twice: at raw material stage, and prior to sale. This gives a high degree of efficacy, safety and confidence in the treatment process.