Pamela Spence,

Medical Herbalist MNIMH 

Herbal medicine is the oldest form of medicine known to man. The term means using whole plants - leaf, roots, berries, flowers and bark to create medicines. Countless drugs are still derived from plant sources. More than 80% of the world's population still depend on herbal medicine for survival.

Herbalists are taught to diagnose medicine in the same way as orthodox doctors but believe in treating a patient holistically to achieve the best results. This means treating the person, not the disease and getting to the root cause of the problem not just relieving symptoms. Herbalists encourage patients to play an active role in their own wellbeing.

Herbalists mix individual medicines for each patient. They have studied herb/drug interactions and know which plants can be used safely with specific pharmaceuticals. Herbalists can work in partnership with your GP or other health care provider.

As balanced, natural products, herbal medicines have few side effects and are often more gentle on the body than modern drugs. However, herbs are powerful and it is always recommended that you consult a fully qualified medical herbalist rather than self-medicating as the strength and potential interactions of some herbs may be missed.

Members of the National Institute of Herbal Medicine carry the letters MNIMH after their name. This indicates that they have completed a stringent training regime to degree or postgraduate level, alongside a minimum 500 hours of clinical practice. Members adhere to a strict code of ethics and a robust programme of Continuing Professional Development.