Established in 1864, the National Institute of Medical Herbalists (NIMH) is the leading professional body of herbal practitioners in the UK. It promotes the benefits, efficacy and safe use of herbal medicines. This is especially the case when supplied by an experienced medical herbalist following a professional consultation.
All members of NIMH must complete an accredited course before joining. As well as abide by a mandatory code of conduct. Every NIMH member must also undertake continuing professional development to keep their knowledge, skills and clinical expertise up to date. You can see my credentials here.
Members of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists can use MNIMH or FNIMH after their name.
Find out more about joining NIMH.
If you are interested in learning to become a medical herbalist, it is a good idea to speak to a professional association. They will be able to provide you with information on accredited courses.
On the other hand, if you want to find a qualified practitioner, you can read the information on my herbalist near me page.
Or, you can book a complimentary hello call with me by following this link.
With a BSc.Hons degree in herbal medicine, a postgraduate diploma in nutritional medicine, and over 20 years in practice I am a fully qualified and experienced herbal practitioner. I regularly attend seminars, webinars and courses so my practise and expertise stays at the highest standard. I offer herbal consultations, with lifestyle and nutritional advice. And I create bespoke herbal formulas to help people resist illness and imbalance, and improve their resilience and wellbeing. Over the years I have developed a deep understanding of the medicinal properties of plants and herbal treatment. With a chemistry background, I love delving into the scientific side of my work. Plus, I am passionate about the use of food as medicine.
Healing medicinal plants
Using medicinal plants represents a healing tradition that is as old as humanity. To me, using herbs is not just an 'alternative therapy'. It is about connecting with nature and respecting the balance of life. After all, these traditional remedies have been in use around the world for centuries to treat a wide range of ailments.
While some modern drugs have their origins in nature, conventional drugs are single chemical products. In contrast, a natural remedy is unique and complex, and its components have a synergistic nature. "The whole being more than the sum of their parts". Each amazing herb contains dozens or sometimes hundreds of therapeutic ingredients, including vitamins, minerals and other phytonutrients with helpful effects. These constituents work together with the body to promote the healthy functioning of the body's organs and tissues.
Who is herbal therapy for?
The quick fix approach
When it comes to their health, I find that people are often looking for a quick fix. But this approach doesn't work over the longer term. In fact, I have seen that quick fixes often suppress symptoms rather than aiming to heal the body. In contrast, herbs, just like food, work with your body's natural processes. Herbalists look for and address the underlying cause of ill-health rather than only addressing symptoms. Above all, herbalists aim to improve the function of the body, promoting health and wellbeing. Providing the body with nourishing plants, and a solution that heals from within.
Western herbal medicine and you
My training and background is in Western herbal medicine or phytotherapy. In Western medical herbalism, we use plant-based remedies, sometimes supplemented with the bee products honey or propolis.
As a UK-based therapist, I prefer to choose remedies based mainly on our native plant species. Though sometimes, I will use herbs from other traditions such as Chinese herbal medicine. I provide only the best quality medicinal herbs from my practice dispensary.
Western herbalism is a complementary therapy meaning it can complement conventional medicines. This is best done with the expert knowledge of an experienced therapist. Professional herbalists learn which herbal preparation can be safely used alongside prescription medications.
The consultation
If you have struggled for some time with an illness, you may appreciate the time and attention given to understanding the nature of your symptoms. A consultation will usually last between 60 and 90 minutes. After taking a detailed medical history, I can create a blend of herbs that is right for you. I usually offer a nutritional plan alongside herbal remedies and lifestyle suggestions where appropriate.
A face to face appointment is usually my preference, but during the Covid pandemic, I began to also offer online appointments. I understand that these are not only more convenient but sometimes a necessity when people are very unwell.
How to use natural medicine
Ideally, everyone would be able to incorporate a wide range of plant foods into their everyday life. I think this is one of the easiest ways to improve the overall condition of most people. Many herbs are both food and medicine, so this is a great place to start.
Herbal teas made from roots, leaves and/or flowers are a great alternative to your usual tea or coffee, providing you with extra nutrients in the form of a delicious beverage.
Find an experienced medical herbalist
Learn how making small changes on a daily basis to what you eat, drink or how much exercise you get, can impact both physical and mental health. If you are ready to make a commitment to take an active role in improving your well-being, please get in touch. I welcome any questions if you want to learn more.
Click the button below to book a free, no-obligation discovery call with me, online. Find out how natural medicine can help you achieve your wellness goals.
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