Herbal Medicine

“Herbal medicine is the most natural, accessible, safest and most easily assimilated form of medicine available, with substantial illness preventative potential.”

- Phytomed, NZ

The history of herbal medicine predates records and was traditionally used by all societies and cultures. Herbal medicine or ‘phytotherapy’ is not only the oldest form of medicinal therapy, but it is still the most widely used system of medicine in the world today.

The therapeutic activity of a plant is due to the many complex chemical components contained within the flowers, leaves, berries, stems, bark and roots of the plant. Modern science is increasingly validating the therapeutic actions and efficacy of herbal medicine with clinical trials.

A registered Medical Herbalist is a qualified professional who is trained to formulate herbs safely for your particular health condition and will check for interactions with any medication you may be taking before prescribing.

A Medical Herbalist may recommend a tailor-made liquid herbal tincture, personalised for you. Or they may prescribe a herbal supplement, herbal tea or a decoction.

Herbal medicine is safe and effective for most acute and chronic conditions. Treatment time and symptom improvement is as individual as the patient. Acute conditions like a cold or the flu may see improvement within several hours, while improvement in chronic conditions may take longer as the herbs gently nurture and rebalance the systems of the body.

New Zealand is home to an incredibly unique and diverse range of flora consisting of over 2200 different species of native plants & ferns, seaweeds, lichens and fungi. Found nowhere else in the world these unique medicinal plants (rongoā) form a part of the traditional Māori healing system.

As a kiwi herbalist I have an affinity for these wonderful native plants and the powerful phytochemicals stored within them. I have witnessed first hand the healing powers of our native plants and feel drawn to including them into herbal formulas for my clients. They are indeed a tohunga (treasure) to be shared and enjoyed for the health and wellbeing of all New Zealanders.