On a physical level herbal medicine works through bioactive compounds found in plants that interact with the body’s cells, tissues, enzymes, and biochemical pathways. Just like pharmaceutical drugs (many of which were originally derived from plants), herbs contain chemicals that can produce physiological effects.  Phytochemicals can be absorbed through the digestive tract, metabolized in the liver, distributed through the bloodstream, and interact with receptors, enzymes, or signaling pathways.  This interaction may lead to their healing benefits (which include reducing inflammation, affecting neurotransmitters, supporting immune function, influencing hormone levels…the list goes on).  Herbs also interact on an emotional level and have always been used around the world with profound effect in ceremony and ritual.

Unlike many single-molecule pharmaceutical drugs, herbal medicine often uses whole plant extracts.  This means multiple compounds work together, acting in synergy.  The combined effect may be gentler but broader.  Our bodies are used to processing this complex mix of chemicals as this is the form our foods take.  In my own experience unexpected side effects of using herbs are often positive (e.g. gums becoming healthier while primarily treating something completely different).  Like pharmaceutical drugs herbs can have profound effects on the human body e.g. changing blood pressure, blood clotting and liver activity and proper dosing is essential.  Everyone reacts differently to herbs so we will monitor and change your herbs if required.  Some herbs are restricted and can only be prescribed by a medical herbalist.

Absolutely, but you are right to be cautious.  Herbs can interact with some medicines so we will always take a good look at the medicines you are on and check that nothing we add will interact.  I am trained to always consider the medications you are taking.  I can communicate with your GP/health provider if you wish – this will be discussed with you first.  Lots of people use herbs to cope with side effects of medicines they are taking.

If you would like to be seen face to face I see people within my home in the South-West of Edinburgh.  If you are local and feel that it would be beneficial, I can also do home visits (for example if your child would be more comfortable being seen in a familiar environment).  I can also consult online and send your herbs out to you.

Booking online via this website ensures my time is booked.  I will then send you an email and we can decide whether you wish to be seen in person or online.   Alternatively, send me an email and we can book that way.

Your medicine will be bespoke to you and we will discuss the price of the recommendations and you will be given the chance to change the method of delivery of your medicine to suit your budget.  As a rough guide, 100ml of tincture is £15 and this would last 1 week.  

I will send you a link to pay via email/text/WhatsApp following the consultation. Alternatively, you can pay cash.

I love animals but I don’t treat them with herbal medicine as they have such different physiology.  The exception would be if you are solely looking to treat them with flower essences – these are drops that you can put into their food or water.  There are many vets who are also trained in herbal medicine and I recommend an online search for them.  

NIMH is the UK’s leading and largest professional body of herbal practitioners in the United Kingdom.  Members are subject to high standards of training and professional conduct, with qualification in Herbal Medicine of BSc level or equivalent, and hold all required insurance to practice.  See their website for more information: https://nimh.org.uk/