What is Herbal Medicine?
Herbal Medicine uses whole plants that have medicinal effects in the body. The roots, leaves, flowers and bark of specific plants contain constituents that, for example, can relieve pain, reduce inflammation or soothe the digestion. The use of whole plants, rather than single, extracted constituents enhances the therapeutic effect of a herbal formula.
I create tailor-made herbal prescriptions based on both traditional and contemporary herbal knowledge as well as up-to-date scientific research. On top of this, the unique skills of pulse and tongue diagnosis give me otherwise hidden information about the state of your health and guide me towards the most effective treatment plan.
Herbal medicine is a safe, effective and gentle treatment for many health conditions. It has few side effects and is particularly helpful in chronic illness. I always take a thorough case history and check for any possible contraindications and have been trained to ensure that the herbs prescribed do not interact with any current medication you take.
Herbal medicine works well alongside western medicine and can help to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, radio therapy and IVF drugs as well as other medications.
I am very happy to work alongside your GP, consultant or other health practitioners.
What Does It Treat?
Herbal Medicine treats a very wide range of conditions. Please contact me to discuss your own health issues.
If you'd like to find out more about my approach please see my 'What I offer' page
What can I expect in the initial consultation?
I will take a detailed case history and then depending on the diagnosis, as your holistic health practitioner in Yeovil, I may prescribe one or more of the following:
- a tincture
- a powder
- capsules or tablets
- cream, ointment, pessaries or gel
I will give you a prescription sheet which will explain when and how to take your herbs. If you have chosen to have acupuncture as well, then this consultation will include an acupuncture treatment. We will also discuss any lifestyle changes that could nourish and support you.
What should I expect in a follow-up?
We will discuss how you are and I will take your pulse and look at your tongue to assess any changes. I will then adapt your prescription, if necessary, in response to feedback.
How often should I come?
The effects of herbal medicine may be evident quite quickly or may take a while to appear. Progress depends on the nature of your imbalance and your personal constitution. I usually recommend that you come for a herbal follow-up 2 weeks later and then monthly and I reassess your progress as we go along. The duration of treatment is highly individual and depends on various factors including the length of time you've been ill. Acupuncture treatment alongside herbal medicine can speed up progress. Many people choose to return for regular monthly or seasonal treatments to stay healthy and boost immunity.
Book a free 15-minute consultation with me
Let's have a conversation and find out how I can help you today.
Sarah Hitchens
BA Hons. Lic.Ac. Dip.Ac. MBAcC. Dip.Med.Herb. MNIMH
Somerset, East Devon and West Dorset
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