Herbal medicine has evolved over the centuries, with traditions tracing back to Graeco-Roman, Arabic, European, and American cultures. Although the practice is deeply rooted in tradition, modern medical herbalists draw on evidence-informed research to guide their practice.
The medicines prescribed by herbalists are made from whole parts of plants, including flowers, leaves, roots, seeds, and bark. Plants are powerful chemical synthesisers that produce multiple compounds known as phytochemicals. These phytochemicals have therapeutic effects on the body and often work synergistically to support health and well-being.
Many modern ‘mainstream’ medications actually originate from phytochemicals discovered in plants and have been made by synthesising one ‘isolated’ plant compound for its targeted action. For example, aspirin was developed from salicylate compounds found in willow bark and meadowsweet, both traditionally used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. However, isolating a single plant compound and refining it into a drug can often come with its fair share of unwanted side effects that aren’t present when whole-plant extracts are used in herbal remedies. Meadowsweet, for instance, has pain-relieving actions without the stomach-irritating effects associated with aspirin.
Some common examples of medicinal herbs that a herbalist may include in a bespoke prescription are:
- Chamomile flowers – may help promote relaxation and support restful sleep
- Echinacea root – may support immune system function
- Fennel seed – may help soothe and support digestion
- Calendula flowers – may help support inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema
While it may be tempting to purchase over-the-counter herbal remedies, self-prescribing can often be reductive and may overlook the broader picture of an individual’s health. Medical herbalists create personalised treatments and bespoke medicines tailored to the individual. As a result, two people with the same condition may receive entirely different herbal prescriptions. A consultation with a qualified herbalist helps ensure that the herbal medicines you take are appropriate, effective, and safe for your individual needs.