Western herbal medicine (WHM), also referred to as traditional Western herbalism, botanical medicine and phytotherapy, originates from European Greco-Roman traditions linked to influential physicians such as Hippocrates of Kos (c. 460 – c. 370 BC, of the Hippocratic oath fame), Pedanius Dioscorides (c. 40–90 AD), and Galen of Pergamon (129 – c. 216 AD).

WHM, a bit like the food scene in the UK, is a mix of some of the best from across the world. It incorporates British indigenous practices and has strong influences from North America, with a significant exchange of ideas occurring during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. North American movements of that time, like the Eclectics, incorporated herbal lore of Indigenous Peoples of North America, leading to cross-cultural adoption of remedies such as Echinacea in the UK. Additionally, globalisation and influences of other herbal medicine traditions such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has led to the integration of plants from worldwide sources, such as Panax ginseng (ginseng), into Western usage.

Sources: European Herbal & Traditional Medicine Practitioners Association (EHTPA); Lloyd Library and Museum.

I suggest that you book a free 10 minute introductory call to discuss your health concerns, ask any questions about herbal medicine and explore your options.

People come to me for support with a wide range of issues, including stress, sleep, digestion, menstrual and menopausal concerns, skin, joints, seasonal complaints, and general wellbeing. If your concern isn’t mentioned, get in touch for a free introductory call. I work alongside your GP and will never ask you to stop prescribed medication. If I think you need medical attention, I will tell you.

Herbal medicine uses plants to support health and wellbeing. People use it at every stage of life, and I tailor each prescription to the individual.

Research into herbal medicine is growing, although the evidence varies by herb and by condition. Many herbs also have a long history of traditional use, and I draw on both traditional knowledge and current research.

You may already use plants this way without thinking about it: coffee to wake you up, mint tea after a big meal, warming spices in a curry. Herbal medicine applies the same principle with a much wider range of plants, chosen for you. Additionally, as a qualified practitioner, I have access to the best quality herbal preparations and powerful plant medicines not available to the general public.

Whole plants contain many naturally occurring compounds, and herbalists value working with that complexity. A formula can combine several herbs to support more than one aspect of your health at once. Herbal medicine can sit alongside conventional care. I will always ask about any medication you take to avoid interactions, and I encourage you to keep your GP or consultant informed.

Herbalism isn’t statutorily regulated in the UK, so anyone can call themselves a herbalist. Only certain training courses are recognised by accrediting bodies and qualify for insurance.

That is why I trained to degree level and joined a professional body, the National Institute of Medical Herbalists (NIMH), established in 1864. NIMH members work to a code of ethics and practice, and keep their skills current through continuing professional development.

My training in medical herbalism from Betonica School of Herbal Medicine involved over four years of study in plant medicine, plant chemistry, herb-drug interactions, clinical diagnostic skills, anatomy & physiology and pathology, and included over 500 hours of clinical training.

Crucially, I am trained to practise safely and to avoid interactions and contraindications with GP-prescribed medication.

Consultation fees are listed here. These include any research needed for your treatment plan and medicine formulation.

Herbal medicines are prescribed and dispensed directly by me. As they are freshly prepared and tailored to you, pricing varies. Herbal medicines typically cost around £15 per week, but this can vary. They are non-returnable.

Repeat prescription fee (without a consultation) £7.50 + £10 p&p (medicines separate)

Supplements may be recommended. Most are available through links I provide at 15% off the retail price.

In-person appointments

I prefer to see new patients in person for the initial consultation as a physical examination may be necessary.

Online appointments

Online consultations work well for most people. However, depending on your situation, following an online appointment, it may then be recommended to book a follow-up in-person meeting to facilitate diagnostic clinical skills. They last as long as the sessions outlined above.

All new patients need to start with an initial consultation.

These last about an hour. I use this time to understand your current situation and contributing factors, including your full medical history, social and lifestyle factors and diet, and I may carry out clinical examinations if necessary. Before you attend, I will ask you to fill out a health questionnaire, which helps us focus on the key issues and lets me ask further relevant questions. However, if you struggle with forms, we can cover these questions when we meet.

Particularly with multiple or chronic health concerns, and if you have struggled to find help, many people find that having their story heard in depth is a key part of the healing process.

I may recommend testing and work with you according to the results. I may also suggest keeping a symptom and/or food diary, and will help you find a way of doing this that suits your lifestyle.

Whatever your age, treatment is tailored to you.

Further information about how herbalists work is available at https://nimh.org.uk/_resources/seeing-a-herbalist/

Once we have agreed a treatment plan, I will dispense and send your herbal medicine. It is specific to your needs and may be in the form of tinctures, teas, creams, capsules or tablets.

I may recommend supplements and provide links for you to purchase them.

I can provide up to three repeat prescriptions between consultations. After that, a follow-up consultation is required to review your progress and ensure your prescription remains correct and safe. A charge applies to all repeat prescriptions dispensed in the absence of a consultation.

It depends on you and on what we are working on. Recent concerns often respond more quickly than long-standing ones. Some people notice a difference within days or weeks, while others, particularly with complex issues, need several months. Some people choose to continue herbal medicine long term.

These usually take place after a month and last around 30 minutes. We discuss your progress and I adjust your treatment as required. Occasionally I may suggest a longer follow-up if we need to go into something in more depth.

Payments are usually requested in advance.

Bank transfer is preferred (details are included in your payment request), but all major credit cards except American Express are accepted.

Cancellations/ rescheduling:

If you still have questions, please feel free to contact me or book a free 10 minute introductory call.