A well trained herbalist is knowledgeable about the safety, efficacy and quality of herbs and herbal products.  They are familiar with potential herb/drug interactions.  As practitioners, herbalists can be a solid foundation in providing guidance to their clients as the client addresses various health concerns.  They can be an invaluable asset to assist clients in realizing the appropriate health protocol for optimum health results.  Before choosing an herbalist, a potential client may want to speak to that herbalist to gauge if they both possess a similar code of values and practitioner/client goals.  

 

What is the difference in traditional medicine and Western medicine?

 

Herbalists view the body as a whole and believe symptoms are the body's way of asking for help.  They do not "treat" dis-eases nor "cure" clients as it is done in Western medicine.  Herbalists assist in clients empowering themselves to reach their desired level of optimum health.  Depending on their comfort level and experience, an herbalist may assist clients with a myriad of health challenges or specialize in one major health challenge.  Most herbalists address spiritual, emotional, physical and environmental well-being, diet, lifestyle and protocols. 

 

Do I have to stop seeing my primary care physician? 

 

No.  The option is always available for your herbalist and your primary care physician to be in communication, especially if you have a serious health challenge.  Some clients feel most comfortable having had a traditional practitioner as their primary practitioner for years.  Others are attached to their primary care physician due to a moderate-severe health challenge or they utilize a primary care physician that embraces and understands the role traditional healing plays in the Western world.  In addition, some clients utilize their primary care physician in order to receive yearly physicals and important tests such as blood work, while still consulting an herbalist.