Is herbal medicine safe?

Yes. Herbal medicine is generally very safe. Herbalists use constituents from the entire plant, rather than isolated extracts, which helps bring about gentle, yet effective support. The synergy of the constituents in the plant often work together to bring balance without any harsh effects.

Herbalists are also trained to understand any drug-herb interactions and contraindications for each plant along with any pharmaceutical medications you may be taking. It is important to follow dosage instructions on your medications as well as any herbal recommendations you might receive.

If I’m taking medication prescribed by my doctor, can I take herbs as well?

Yes. Herbs can often be very supportive taken alongside other medications. That said, I will never suggest or encourage you to stop taking any medication prescribed, without you speaking with your doctor and primary healthcare provider. Simply stopping medications could prove detrimental to your health condition and it is best addressed with your doctor as you move forward.

Some herbs can interact with medication, and that is why herbalists are trained on these contraindications and potential interactions.

How long should I expect to work with you?

Because herbal medicine aims to address the root causes of imbalance and not just suppress symptoms, it can often take longer to resolve any long-standing concerns. Everybody responds differently to herbal medicine due to their unique make up, and while not everyone will see immediate results, many people will see results within the first four weeks. Generally the rule is for every year of chronic illness, expect at least a month of support.

Success is also dependant on the client’s commitment to making diet and lifestyle changes, which can have profound effects on overall health.

Are you insured?

Yes.

Do you belong to a professional association?

Yes. I am a student member of the AHA (Alberta Herbalist Association) as well as the Christian Herbalist Guild. I am currently working towards my Registered Herbalist designation with the AHA and will apply once I have accumulated the required clinical hours.

I also work directly with my mentor who is a professionally registered herbalist with both the AHG (American Herbalist Guild) and the Christian Herbalist Guild.

Some conditions that can be supported:

Mental Health:

• Stress management

• Anxiety and depression

• Insomnia and sleep disturbances

• Headaches and migraines

Skin Health:

• Eczema

• Psoriasis

• Acne

Digestive Health:

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

• Inflammatory bowel disease

• Peptic ulcers

• Indigestion and acid reflux

• Constipation

Cardiovascular Health:

• High blood pressure

• Cardiovascular disease

• Varicose veins

Respiratory Health:

• Chronic coughs and asthma

• Hay fever and allergies

• Chronic sinusitis

Musculoskeletal Health:

• Osteoarthritis

• Rheumatism

Urinary Health:

• Cystitis (bladder infections)

Gynecological Health:

• PMS

• Heavy or absent periods

• Painful periods and mood changes

• Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

• Endometriosis and fibroids

• Menopausal symptoms

• Infertility

General Wellness:

• Common colds and flu

• Chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia

• Lyme disease

• Autoimmune diseases

• Cancer support (not treatment)