Herbal Medicine

Herbal medicine is the treatment of illness using whole plant material (in the form of tinctures, teas, capsules, creams, ointments).

It is the most ancient form of medicine known to mankind. For centuries our ancestors discovered which plants were most effective in healing illnesses and passed this knowledge on from generation to generation. In recent years, modern research has reinforced and helped our understanding of many of these traditional uses.

In Ireland, herbal medicine is often referred to as 'alternative' or 'complementary' but it is the most widely practised form of medicine worldwide with over 80% of the world's population relying on herbs for health.

Herbalists believe that use of the whole herb has a more balanced and safer effect. One example in support of the use of the whole herb is that of the diuretic. Orthodox diuretics (drugs that increase the flow of urine) can seriously reduce potassium levels in the body which have to be restored using potassium supplements. Herbalists use dandelion leaves as a powerful diuretic. Dandelion leaves contain potassium which naturally replaces that which is lost thereby maintaining balance in the body and avoiding a negative side-effect.

What can herbal medicine treat?

Herbal medicine can be used to treat almost any condition - either as a primary treatment or in support of another form of medicine. Illnesses which are often treated by herbal practitioners include...

Respiratory disorders: Colds, Sinusitis, Asthma Bronchitis 

Digestive disorders: Chronic indigestion, Constipation, IBS,

Cholesterol & Ulcers

Circulatory disorders: Varicose veins, poor circulation, high blood pressure

Muscular-skeletal disorders: Rheumatoid arthritis & osteoarthritis

Nervous disorders: Stress, depression, insomnia, migraine

Skin Problems: Eczema, psoriasis, acne

Endocrine disorders: Fertility, menstrual & menopausal symptoms