Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine – also known as
botanical medicine –is the use of plant remedies and has been used for medicinal purposes long before recorded history.
Herbalism is used in many different cultures around the world and has become mainstream in the treating and prevention of the underlying causes of symptoms. With advances in clinical research and trials, new insights have shown the value of medical herbalism to be effective for a wide variety of health issues.
Plants are the basis of human diet and plant medicines can be seen as an extension of a good diet, harnessing natural substances to correct imbalances that can cause ill health. Herbal medicine under the guidance of a qualified herbalist is safe, gentle and free from side-effects.
After a thorough assessment of an individual’s health, a combination of herbs can be suggested. The relief of long standing symptoms and the feeling of increased energy and emotional balance are frequently apparent in weeks. Individuals of all ages can benefit from herbal medicine. Those already receiving treatment from their doctor may also be helped, and are prescribed only herbs that do not adversely interact with other medication.
Herbal Medicine by Lea Murphy
Naturopath
Member, ANTA, NHA

A healing technique that is inherently in tune with nature, it has been described as 'ecological healing' because it shares an ecological and evolutionary heritage with the plant kingdom. From a holistic standpoint, a person is not merely being; and therapists need to appreciate not only spiritual, social, and environmental aspects of their patients' lives. Herbal medicine thus fits perfectly into this emerging holistic paradigm.