"A wise man should consider that health is the greatest of human blessings."
Hippocrates
Naturopathy and Herbal Medicine
Naturopathy
Naturopathy is a system of medicine that focuses on prevention of illness or disease and the use of non toxic, natural therapies. It is based on the principle that given the right tools, the body has the ability to heal itself.
A naturopathic doctor has a very similar training to a medical doctor except that they do not prescribe drugs.
Naturopathy is based on seven principles:
- Identify and treat the cause
- Treat the whole person
- Prevention is the best cure
- Aim to establish health and wellness
- Nature has healing powers
- Do no harm
- The physician is a teacher
Naturopathy encompasses a variety of treatment methods including lifestyle and dietary advice, herbal medicine, fasting or detoxification therapies, stress reduction, homeopathy and breathing exercises.
Herbal Medicine
What is it?
Herbal Medicine is the oldest form of Medicine and has been used to treat disease and improve health for people of all ages all over the world. To validate its traditional uses and increase scientific certification there is now an ever increasing amount of research being performed.
The herbalist's approach to treatment is holistic and aims to treat the underlying causes and not only the symptoms of illness. Many of the herbs work to stimulate the body's own healing power and restore the balance of health or to minimise side effects if the patient is taking drugs.
Herbal medicines differ from plant-derived drugs in that they consist of many chemical components derived from the whole plant. Each of the numerous different constituents or “phyto-chemicals” within the herbs work synergistically making active constituents more easily available to the body, or buffering otherwise harmful ingredients.
What conditions can herbal medicine treat?
The herbalist deals with a wide range of health conditions and with everyone from children to the elderly. Some examples of problems which herbalists regularly treat are recurrent infections, allergies, skin disorders, digestive problems, menstrual and urinary problems.
Herbal medicine is also beneficial for people looking for general detoxification, for increasing energy levels and anti aging. You do not have to be ill to benefit from herbal treatment. You may just feel a little underpower, tired or low in spirits. The herbs work to restore the body's natural harmony and resistance and maintain good health.
What to expect from a consultation?
Your first visit will take approximately one hour. In this time your medical questionnaire will be reviewed and any necessary examinations carried out, the practitioner will discuss your health problems and explain the proposed treatment. Your medicine will contain a selection of herbs specifically matched to your individual needs and current state of health. Advice on diet and general health care will also be offered. Subsequent visits are usually for half an hour to assess your progress and any further treatment required.
How does herbal treatment work with the medicines from your doctor?
Any medication or treatment you are already receiving is taken into consideration, so please be sure you tell the herbalist exactly what you are taking. Usually you will need to continue your current treatment alongside the herbal remedy. It is important that you do not stop your treatment without advice.