What is a Naturopathic Herbalist?

The Naturopathic Herbalist is not just a herbalist, but is also trained in nutrition and other therapies such as Bach Flower therapies, tissue salts, first aid homeopathy, naturopathy, detoxification, body techniques and various diagnostic tools such as iridology, face, nail and tongue diagnostics. They will always prescribe according to the individual constitution of a client and know that a symptom, such as high blood pressure, is not the disease but has an underlying cause which may developed suddenly or over many years. Migraine, for instance, can have various causes. It could be triggered by an allergy or sensitivity to foods, be related to digestive problems, emotions, hormones, kidneys, or lung functions. The Naturopathic Herbalist never prescribes herbs to ‘treat’ a symptom but looks at the underlying cause and the constitution of a client.

The earliest documented use of herbal medicine was by the Ancient Sumerians in 5000 BC. Since that time, herbal medicine has evolved to meet the health needs of each generation across all human cultures. Herbal medicine is highly recommended as a powerful treatment for many conditions when other therapies fail.

The Naturopathic Herbalist Consultation.

A Naturopathic Herbalist combines herbs to create a formula which gives the body the right impulse to heal itself. Nutrition and lifestyle will be adjusted, and additional remedies recommended depending on the case. The herbal formula may be prepared for the patient in a variety of ways including liquid form, powder, tea, infusion, or in creams and ointments for topical use. A Naturopathic Herbalist knows the phytochemical content of herbs and how to combine herbs to assist a person from ill health to good health.

Herbs are known to have antiviral, immune, antimicrobial, respiratory, digestion-enhancing, hormone balancing and nourishing effects on the body. Some herbs have specific effects on individual body organs such as the liver, the lungs or bladder.

Naturopathic Herbalists are qualified to dispense medicinal herbs. Their herbal medicines and formulas are more potent than can be purchased in shops. To get the best individual herbal formula, the Naturopathic Herbalist will always take a detailed case history and use various diagnostic tools to find the underlying cause before they recommend an individualised herbal treatment.

How long does a treatment take?

Your initial appointment with a Naturopathic Herbalist will normally last between 60 and 90 minutes. During this time, the Herbalist will take a thorough case history including family history, medical history, diet, lifestyle, and the health concerns that have brought you to seek Herbalist advice. It is common for a Herbalist to look at your tongue, nails and skin and sometimes your iris as well.

Once the consultation is done, the Naturopathic Herbalist will create a treatment plan, which will include lifestyle and dietary recommendations, and blend a herbal formula tailored to your personal health requirements.

A follow-up appointment with a Herbalist tends to be shorter than the first appointment, lasting between 30 and 45 minutes depending on the complexity of health issues.

The length of a treatment and the frequency of visits depend on the state of health and disease. Chronic conditions develop often over decades and will, therefore, require more appointments. Acute conditions may take only one consultation.

Naturopathic Herbalists are registered with the ANP. They follow a Code of Ethics which includes client confidentiality. Continuous learning and practitioner development is a must to stay on the register.

How much does a treatment cost?

The cost of a herbal treatment varies. It is recommended to get clarity right from the beginning.

The Naturopathic Herbalist qualification.

Members of the ANP have gone through 3 to 5 years of intensive training. They are required to continuously further their training to stay abreast of the latest developments in the field of natural therapies. ANP members meet regularly to exchange experiences via Zoom sessions or in-person meetings.

What can a Naturopathic Herbalist help with?

Herbalists are usually consulted for a range of common complaints including:

• Digestion.
• Weight loss / gain.
• Hormones.
• Fertility.
• Sleep.
• Skin.
• Immunity.
• Stress.

Find a Naturopathic Herbalist.

Professional, qualified Naturopathic Herbalists can be found via the  ANP Practitioner Directory.

MEMBER DIRECTORY