To first understand what an Herbalist can help with, first we need to understand what an Herbalist is.
Simply put, an Herbalist uses herbs to help treat different kinds of conditions, ailments and their symptoms. Herbalists attempt to find the root cause of illness. Practitioners will often choose herbs based on the symptoms or ailments a patient describes during the consultation. They will also perform a clinical exam, inspecting certain areas of the body and create a personalized prescription.
An Herbalist’s knowledge cannot be understated. Join me as we go through what an Herbalist can help with as well as how an herbalist can help.
Herbs for Treatment?
Yes!
Herbal medicine is one of the oldest forms of medicine still used today. In recent years the popularity of herbal medicine has increased due to it being more affordable and easier to obtain compared to conventional medicine. In many cases, herbal medicine may have fewer and milder side effects. Some of the most common beneficial herbs can be purchased at your local supermarket such as chamomile, turmeric, peppermint, lavender and ginseng. Though we highly recommend you have a conversation with a professional Herbalist before attempting to treat your symptoms on your own.
Why Consult an Herbalist?
In today’s age of computers and smartphones it’s easy to have the misconception that you have all the answers at the palm of your hand. Although this can be true in some cases, we believe you shouldn’t take that risk when it comes to your health. An Herbalist specializes in treating patients with natural herbs. They understand how herbs help with your condition. And more importantly they can tell you what herbs not to use.
Like all medicines, herbal medicine may have some side effects. It’s an Herbalist’s job to talk with you and understand what medicine you may already be taking. Whether it is other herbal medicine or pharmaceuticals prescribed from your doctor. An herbalist can help you understand that some herbs can have heightened side effects when combined with a prescription treatment from your doctor.
Some examples include; if you are on some contraceptives you should avoid supplements that contain St. John’s wort. St. John’s wort is commonly used as a mild antidepressant, but when used with contraceptives can cause irregular bleeding or an unplanned pregnancy. Ginkgo biloba is a natural anti-inflammatory commonly used to treat arthritis and migraines. Using it with other blood-thinners like warfarin or aspirin can lead to an increased risk of bleeding.
Laxed Regulation on Herbal Medicine
Unlike pharmaceuticals, herbal medicine does not have strict inspections for safety or efficacy. The herbal supplements we carry at SOHMA are hand-picked and held to the highest standards of quality and reliability. With the increased use of herbal medicine and supplements, it’s unfortunate that there is a lack of regulation for herbal medicine. Many companies out there are just in it to make a quick buck and aim to take advantage of less fortunate people. Lack of dosage instructions for claimed effects may not be property stated and unknown growing and processing conditions can result in contaminated or diluted products. This makes it difficult for consumers to reliably purchase high quality products. Herbalists can help filter out much of the unwanted herbal medicine on the market.
Although herbal remedies are natural, you should also talk to your primary care provider to let them know you’re looking to treat your conditions with herbal medicine. Understand that herbal medicine is used to attempt to treat the root cause of your condition and typically will work slower compared to conventional pharmaceuticals.
Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine
Our goal is to help you improve your health. You can reach out to us and ask us about the Myers Cocktail, IV Therapy, Chiropractic care, or how our other health service lines can help you with your journey to improved health.
Located in Long Beach, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.
We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.
