Consultations
A consultation with a herbalist should not be a daunting prospect – on the contrary, it is a chance to speak openly and at length about your health concerns in a quiet and relaxed atmosphere.
For many people this is the first opportunity they have had to talk at length. Not only about their physical health, but also their emotional well-being and any concerns or fears they may be experiencing.
Letting the patient speak freely, sometimes flitting from problem to problem gives me chance to evaluate how the patient is experiencing their current illness. I will then ask structured questions to gain further insight as to what may be happening.
After the initial consultation, three or four shorter consultations are usually necessary to assess your progress.
Your treatment plan may include check-ups every three to six months, depending on the nature of your condition.
The reason for this, is that, herbal medicines work in a gentle and subtle way, they can take longer to work than orthodox drugs, but their effects are long lasting and there should be no side effects.
Comprehensive Care
Holistic Well-being
Some consultations are straight forward – an acute problem which can easily be treated: coughs and colds, sprains and strains, short term sleep issues are examples.
Often though, chronic problems are the things which bring most people to see a herbalist: anxiety, depression, hormonal problems, digestive issues, high blood pressure, joint and muscular problems, migraines, allergies and so on.
As a general rule, health problems that you would take to your GP may well benefit from herbal treatment.
Many people who consult me are already taking medications from their GP.
I will take this into consideration when preparing your medicine. As qualified medical herbalist, I am aware of any possible interactions which may occur (although these are extremely rare).
Experienced Care
I will discuss your diet on initial and subsequent visits to see how this may be impacting on your health and possibly make some gradual changes to this if needed.
Physical examinations are often necessary and with your permission these will be carried out (just as you would expect from the GP).
Your blood pressure is usually taken and often you will be asked to provide a urine sample for some simple tests.
I will give you every opportunity to mention anything you may think is important or that you may have forgotten previously.
Next Steps
A follow up consultation usually takes place in 2 – 3 weeks when your progress is assessed.
Any further advice can be given and your medicine reformulated, dependent on the improvements that have occurred.
If you have a chronic condition repeat prescriptions can be collected between follow up visits which may be every 2-4 months. Acute problems may only need one visit. Everyone is different!
Often patients experience a general feeling of well- being while on herbal medicine. This is due to the tonic action of many herbs and is a welcome bonus for many people.
It is at your discretion as to whether or not you inform your GP of your herbal treatment; I believe this is your choice.
I will always refer you back to your GP or other health professional if necessary and I am happy to work alongside your GP and communicate with him or her if you wish.
Andrea
Initial Consultation
During your first consultation, I will build up a picture of you and your health. You will discuss the nature, onset and progression of your complaint, as well as any investigations you have had to date.
£48
Follow Up Consultations
After the initial consultation, two to three shorter consultations are usually necessary to assess your progress, followed by check-ups every three to six months, depending on the nature of your condition.
£25
Pricing for Standard Weekly Prescription
£9.75 per 100 ml tincture
Repeat prescriptions have a £5 standard dispense fee added.
Treatable Common Conditions:
Herbal medicine can be used for conditions affecting :
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Digestive system and bowel issues
- Muscles and joints
- Nervous System
- Stress, depression, anxiety, fatigue
- Heart and circulation
- Hormonal System
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Skin
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