What is Herbal Medicine?

Garlic is a potent antiseptic
Herbal Medicine is one of the oldest forms of medicine known and is still widely practised around the World. Approximately 75% of the world's population use plants as their main source of healthcare. There are many different traditions of Herbal Medicine such as Western Herbal Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurvedic Medicine.
Western Herbal Medicine has its origins in the Ancient World drawn from the herbal traditions of the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. Over time this system of medicine has changed and evolved, taking knowledge from other global traditions. In modern times herbalists draw upon this historical knowledge but also incorporate scientific understanding.
Each individual patient is treated uniquely, it is the person and not the disease that is treated. Treatment is focused upon supporting the body's normal physical functions and thereby assists in achieving and maintaining improved health and well being.
Medical herbalists believe that we are integrated beings with our minds and bodies being intimately connected. As practitioners our understanding of the whole person is vital.
To obtain membership to the National Institute of Medical Herbalists members must pass an accredited course in Herbal Medicine, a diploma or degree. Training takes 4 years during which time students learn medical sciences and complete clinical training. Students complete their training with a full understanding of how to prescribe alongside conventional drugs and when to refer for conventional treatment.
Each individual patient is treated uniquely, it is the person and not the disease that is treated. Treatment is focused upon supporting the body's normal physical functions and thereby assists in achieving and maintaining improved health and well being.
Medical herbalists believe that we are integrated beings with our minds and bodies being intimately connected. As practitioners our understanding of the whole person is vital.
To obtain membership to the National Institute of Medical Herbalists members must pass an accredited course in Herbal Medicine, a diploma or degree. Training takes 4 years during which time students learn medical sciences and complete clinical training. Students complete their training with a full understanding of how to prescribe alongside conventional drugs and when to refer for conventional treatment.