Herbalism
Today is an art form of plant medicine that is rooted in ancient herbal traditions, coming from many different locations across Europe.
Because much of our European herbalism was destroyed by Christianity, it has taken much time, research and love to slowly regain its rightful place as the origin and foundation of modern medicine, our medicinal heritage.
It makes sense to use the herbs that grow locally and so western herbalists have patchworked together lost knowledge to create what would have been common knowledge in every village and town. Most herbalists have a deep knowledge of plant identification and many forage for their own dispensaries.
The fundamental principles of these herbal traditions have often tallied with herbalism from other parts of the world, such as using the elements to describe plants, and using these ancient systems we are able to regain aspects of western herbalism that were lost. In fact, a western herbalist will also incorporate Chinese and Ayurvedic herbal knowledge in their practice as well as other plant therapies such as aromatherapy, flower remedies, naturopathy and homeopathy. Preparations a herbalist may prescribe you include tinctures, teas, syrups, aromatic waters, creams, ointments, oils and tablets.
Although we are more familiar with Chinese herbs, European herbs grow everywhere, London literally hosts 100s of varieties and these have existed, evolved and cohabited with us since millennia, producing healing properties and other constituents that has helped ensure our coexistence today. Over 70% of pharmaceutical drugs are derived directly from plants.
However, herbalists choose to use the whole part/s of the plants because they believe that this natural evolution of plants living in close proximity to humans has ensured perfection in their medicine, both physically and energetically. A herbalist’s intention is to help recalibrate, rebalance, nourish and strengthen someone back to optimal health naturally. This is the essence of true herbal medicine.
How does a herbalist work?
i. A medical herbalist has studied orthodox and plant medicine and has trained in the same diagnostic skills as a GP. During any consultation, details will be taken of the current complaint alongside any past medical history as well as diet and lifestyle situations.
ii. Herbalists take a holistic approach to illness, treating the underlying causes, rather than just the symptoms. Therefore, the prescription a herbalist prescribes will be for the person, not their illness.
iii. Specific herbs are chosen for each person which depends on the information obtained from detailed consultations and any clinical examinations. The herbs given are based on scientific and clinical research, as well as traditional and historical efficacy and use.
iv. Herbalists are trained to ensure their medicine does not clash with any prescription drugs, therefore herbs can be used safely alongside conventional medicine. Please always bring a list of your current prescription drugs with you to appointments.
What can a herbalist treat?
Herbalism is for everyone, and can help both acute and chronic conditions -
• Joints & Bone
• Heart & Circulation
• Skin
• Nutrition & Nourishment
• Fertility, Pregnancy & Childbirth
• Hormone Health
• Emotional Health
• Fatigue Syndrome
• Energy & Stamina
• Digestion
• Allergy
• The Immune System
“I believe continuous professional development is essential to keep my practice safe and up to date. I offer a free 10 minute telephone consultation to help you decide if herbal medicine is the right path for you. If you decide it is, this is followed by;
• A first consultation (approx 1hr30) with an initial prescription (usually 2-4 wks)
• A follow up consultation (up to 45mins) with continued herbal support, usually 2-4 weeks after initial consultation.
• Either the situation has rebalanced itself and the treatment ends, or an ongoing treatment plan is developed for regular repeat visits/or prescriptions made. Diet and lifestyle changes are reevaluated to help restore and empower you back to your optimal health. My aim is to assist people onto the path of medical autonomy in their choices of medicine, food or lifestyle and desires, whilst also keeping an eye on their health and well-being and offering plant medicine tools along the way.
• Telephone and zoom calls are available on request. Home visits may also be available with additional travel costs. PLEASE NOTE – first consultations are essential face to face.”
PRACTITIONER
prices
Adults/ Children
Initial consultation: £80/60 - 90 mins
Follow up: £60/40 - 1hr /45 mins
Rebekah does offer a sliding scale, and family reduced rates, please contact her via email for further details or to book a free 10 minute consultation.
A herbal prescription normally costs between £15-20 per week.