Herbalists do not specialise, however, being human we do tend to have favourite areas of practice. These are mine.
That description covers a multitude of conditions, including
- Osteoarthritis (‘wear and tear’)
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Polymyalgia rheumatica
- Gout and gouty arthritis
My experience is that herbal medicine works very well for these conditions. Patients tell me that they get good pain relief, allowing them to cut down or even do without conventional painkillers such as ibuprofen and steroids. For many though, the best things is the lack of side effects – herbal medicines won’t upset your stomach, or put you at increased risk of osteoporosis. I have a very special interest in gout: I found out that it runs in my family when I recently had my first (and I hope last) attack. Yes, I do take my own medicines.
Keeping blood pressure under control matters: years of high blood pressure can do serious damage, leading to angina, heart attack and stroke. I use a combination of herbs, dietary advice, gentle neck manipulation and relaxation techniques to lower your blood pressure naturally. Once it’s down, dietary changes and relaxation may even be all that you need to keep it down in the long term.
I really enjoy treating the menopause because herbal medicine works so well. Most patients experience a huge improvement in their symptoms within a couple of weeks - often this means getting a good night’s sleep after weeks of broken nights. Herbal medicine doesn’t suppress the menopause, it simply treats the symptoms. You still go through the menopause – you’ll be aware of it in the background, and know when you’re through it – but it won’t be causing problems.
I had been on HRT for about 10 years but due to a medical problem was told I could not stay on it. Within a short time my hot flushes and night sweats returned. I endured them for a number of months, hoping they would go away. I work full time in my own business and help to look after my 7 grandchildren on an ad hoc basis.
I felt exhausted as my sleep was so disturbed. I was driving past Cheshire Natural Health and in desperation took a note of the number and rang them. I booked in to see the reflexologist and the herbalist. What a good decision! I was prescribed by Natalia Kerkham a mixture of herbs and I saw Tracey Turton for reflexology. After a fortnight I began to sleep well and in turn my energy levels returned.
I highly recommend anyone in a similar situation to give it a try. I just wish I’d gone sooner instead of putting up with my hot flushes and night sweats.
Janet, Northwich.