The Consultation

• The first consultation will normally last about an hour and consists of questions about your present condition, past medical history, medication or supplements, family history, diet, lifestyle and other systems of your body. A physical examination may be carried out and blood pressure, pulse and urine sample may be taken. If necessary, you may also be referred to your GP for further tests.
• The second consultation usually last about 30 minutes and takes place 2 to 4 weeks later to assess progress and review the herbal prescriptions and treatment plan to determine whether any adjustments are needed.
  
• Further consultations may take place every 4 to 8 weeks and the duration of treatment will depend on the condition. Some will respond quickly whereas others, particularly chronic conditions, may require treatment over several months. Patients needing longer treatment may still experience more immediate relief of their symptoms.
• Individual herbal medicines are prepared for each patient.  
• Herbal medicines are usually taken as a tincture in which a mixture of alcohol and water is used to extract the active ingredients from the whole plant. A mixture of herbs can be combined in a single tincture and the therapeutic dose taken 2 or 3 times a day. In addition, dried herbs may be prescribed in capsules or prepared as teas.  Creams may also be prescribed for musculoskeletal or skin conditions. 
• The herbs are purchased from reputable suppliers to ensure both efficacy and safety.