FAQs

Herbal Medicine

What health problems can be treated with herbal medicine?

Almost all illnesses and conditions can be treated with herbal medicine. Long standing, chronic problems respond particularly well, even when they have not responded to other forms of treatment. If you are unsure whether herbalism is a suitable form of treatment for your particular problem, then please contact us - we will even advise you if we think you would be better to see another type of practitioner e.g. a Chiropractor or Osteopath.

What if I am already taking medication prescribed by my GP – can I still take herbal medicine?

Yes you can. A qualified medical herbalist knows which herbs can be safely combined with your current medication and also which should be avoided.

Can’t I treat myself with herbs – why should I pay to see a herbalist?

Although a range of herbal preparations can be bought over the counter, they should only be used for very simple problems. A qualified medical herbalist will use a combination of herbs specially formulated for you – this will be far more effective than anything you can buy off the shelf. Likewise, herbs from your garden or the wild should only ever be used if you can be 100% sure of their identity and know their properties – it is safer to consult a qualified herbalist. 

So is herbal medicine safe?

Herbal medicine is both safe and effective - when prescribed by a professional herbalist. However, herbs are potent and need to be used with respect and knowledge. Medical herbalists are trained to get the maximum therapeutic effect from the herbs they use and to do so safely.

Can herbal medicine be used to treat everyone?

Yes - even babies and pregnant women can be treated. However there are many herbs that should be avoided especially in pregnancy – again, that is why we recommend seeing a qualified herbalist. Children often respond very well to herbal medicine, getting results more quickly than adults do. 

Massage

I don’t have any particular health issues, can I still come for a massage?

Yes of course. In today’s busy world most of us need to take time to relax and de-stress – massage is great for this. Managing stress is an important part of keeping well.

Do you offer Aromatherapy massage?

I normally use a plain almond oil for massage. But I can incorporate essential oils specific to your treatment or just to help you relax. We would discuss this in the consultation session before the massage.

Will I have to take my clothes off to receive massage?

Yes – for the massage therapist to be able to properly work on the skin, muscle, tendons, joints etc. it is necessary to have direct contact with the body. However, every effort is taken to preserve your modesty and only the area of the body being worked on is uncovered at any time. Naturally, the sexual areas of the body (breasts and genitals) are NEVER touched during treatment, and pants/briefs are kept on.

I’m not entirely comfortable about being alone and undressed with someone I haven’t met before – can I bring a friend?

Every effort is taken to ensure you feel safe, comfortable and relaxed. If bringing a friend helps, then of course you are welcome to do so. Why not both book in for a massage and receive a substantial discount. 

Reiki

I have strong religious beliefs and I’m not sure whether Reiki is compatible with my faith. I’ve been told that it Reiki is a religion in its own right – is that true?

Reiki is not connected to any particular faith or religious doctrine; in fact people of many different religions or none practise Reiki. If you are a Christian, you may like to look at the ‘Reiki for Christians’ website.

Will I have to take my clothes off to receive Reiki?

No. The Reiki energy can pass through clothing – even plaster casts. You will be asked to take off your shoes and loosen any belts or restrictive clothing but this is only so you can relax and be comfortable, so as to get the maximum benefit from your treatment.