Medical herbalism has been practised in variety of ways, and as a part of conventional medical practice, for centuries, in many different countries.

Many of current therapeutic drugs have their origins in plant products and drug companies continue to search the plant kingdom in search on new, naturally occurring therapeutic agents.

Whereas pharmaceutical agents are prescribed in a purified form and are often chemically synthesised, traditional herbal medicines tend to contain whole plant extracts.

They contain many constituents and are often used in combination with other ingredients to create complex and individual formulae specific to individuals and their complaints.

In this way treatment is often considered holistic, intending to address imbalances and is in most cases free of potentially troublesome side-effects. Thus whilst some products may available ‘over the counter’ for self-prescribing, it is generally preferable to seek a professional opinion.

There are a number of varieties of herbal medical practice: Western Herbal Medicine: In the UK this has been based on the principle that herbs are medicines under UK law and since the Medicines Act of 1968, legislation applicable to herbal medicines has increased considerably.

During the 1980’s, all UK manufacturers have been required to perform a full technical appraisal of their products and to provide evidence to the Medicines Control Agency and as a result of this, 600 products have received a full product license as Medicinal products.

Chinese herbal Medicine Chinese herbal medicine is part of an ancient system of Health care which has developed over the centuries in China and follow the traditional notions of balance and harmony, Yin and Yang, and the vitality and life Energy or Qi.

It is often used in combination with other treatment modalities such as acupuncture and meditation.

Chinese herbs are available in both traditional and modern forms. Traditional medicines are often administered as herbal infusions and modern methods include tinctures and tablets.

Medicines vary widely in their composition and price and regulatory organisations such as the RCHM have become concerned about the ecological threat, particularly to endangered plants and animals caused by uncontrolled harvesting of raw materials.

For more information about herbal medicines and details of local private therapists in your area visit the web site via the link on the right.