Medical Herbalism involves careful diagnosis to determine the cause of the patient's symptoms. Symptoms are viewed as clues to an underlying problem and it is this that is treated. Because of this it can be used for any kind of health problem. Professional medical herbalists are trained to deal with the problems for which a person would visit their general practitioner. Common examples of symptoms that may have a deeper underlying cause are Arthritis, Bronchitis, Colitis, Depression, Eczema, Fluid Retention, Gout, High Blood Pressure, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Insomnia, Infertility, Kidney problems, Liver problems, Menstrual problems, Nervous disorders, Ovarian pain, Palpitations, Prostate problems, Psoriasis, Stress, Thyroid problems, Ulcers and Varicose Veins.

The first consultation lasts between an hour and an hour and a half or longer, so expect to spend time with your practitioner discussing YOU. It is your opportunity to talk about any problems, however insignificant they may appear, because everything you tell your practitioner is important to diagnose your condition. There may also be several tests that will be used in the diagnosis such as taking blood pressure, analysing a urine sample, and physical examination. This will include looking at the eyes, hair, skin, nails, hands, chest, abdomen, legs and feet, similar to that you would expect from a General Practitioner. Additionally an iridology analysis and a kinesiology scan will be carried out. Expect also to have a full medical history taken. At the end a diagnosis will be made and discussed with you. You will be given lifestyle suggestions, dietary advice, and of course your medicine.

After the initial consultation, a follow up consultation will be arranged about two weeks after the first to see how things are going. This will last about half an hour and further visits will probably be necessary at monthly or longer intervals depending on your condition.

How long do you need to take the medicine? No one can say exactly. A chronic condition may take many months of treatment, but acute conditions will generally be cleared quickly. You will be closely supported and monitored and encouraged to maintain good health by life style and dietary changes.