Specialty                     Herbology

Official Resource     Herb Society of America -- www.herbsociety.org

Short Definition
Also known as herbalism, is found in practically all the ancient cultures throughout the world, and utilizes plants and trees, and their derivatives for preventative and curative medicine. It is recognized that herbs constitute the oldest form of healing therapy that we know of.

Expanded Information

Medical herbalists use plant remedies to treat disease and balance the metabolism. The remedies used may include infusions, tablets, tinctures, powders, lotions, creams and ointments.

They begin by gathering detailed information on the patient's medical history such as their lifestyle, past health problems, current illness and about their diet. They also carry out a physical examination before prescribing herbal remedies and giving them advice on diet, lifestyle and dealing with problems.

Medical herbalists might also prescribe food supplements such as vitamins, minerals or special ingredients.