What is Herbal Medicine?
Herbal medicine is an alternative approach to healing that involves the use of plants to treat various ailments and promote general health and well-being. Its aim is to restore the body to a state of natural balance allowing it to heal itself and regain its strength.
For thousands of years, herbal medicine has been practiced by indigenous healers across the globe as a natural and complementary therapy, making it one of the oldest and most widely used systems of healing.
Today, three prominent herbalism practices – Chinese Herbalism, Indian Ayurveda, and modern Western Herbalism – continue to shape the landscape of herbal medicine, offering a more holistic way to healing:
- Chinese Herbalism is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and uses the concept of yin and yang and the flow of Qi energy along with herbal remedies to restore harmony within the body. It integrates various therapeutic modalities such as tai chi, qi gong and acupuncture with the healing power of plants to address diverse ailments.
- Ayurveda is based on the belief that health and wellness depend on a delicate balance between the mind, body and spirit. It takes a holistic approach to wellness, focusing on restoring balance on both physical and mental levels. Ayurvedic practitioners use herbal medicine and other naturopathic techniques not only to achieve this balance but also to cleanse the body and strengthen its natural defences against disease.
- Western Herbal Medicine blends plant-based remedies with scientific research based on their effects on individual body systems to treat or prevent disease and improve health.
Many of the medications used today draw inspiration from nature, with 80% of the world’s population still relying on herbs for their primary healthcare needs. These therapeutic plant compounds can be delivered in various formats – from liquid preparations (tinctures, aromatic waters, glycerites, syrups) and traditional teas and powders to topical applications (oils, salves, and creams). Notably, herbal medicine can be used effectively either independently or in conjunction with prescription medications. Of course, careful selection and consultation with a qualified herbalist or healthcare professional are key to ensuring safe and effective use.
Service Prices
Consultation
| Initial (1-1.5 hrs) | CHF 80 |
| Follow-up (30-40 min) | CHF 65 |
Herbal Remedies
| Tincture (min 4-week supply) |
CHF 15 / 100 mL |
| Tea (loose) | CHF 10 / 100 g |
| Powders | CHF 15 / 100 g |
| Creams | CHF 5 / 10 mL or 10 g |
| Oils | CHF 2.5 / 10 mL or 10 g |
| Aromatic water | CHF 2.5 / 10 mL |
| Suppositories | 1 piece – CHF 1 |
| 5 pieces – CHF 4 | |
| 10 pieces – CHF 8 |
Who is Herbal Medicine for?
Herbal Medicine is wonderfully inclusive, catering to everyone who wishes to embrace a natural path to wellness. Whether you’re seeking an everyday wellness boost or an alternative way to navigate more complex health concerns, herbal therapy can help you harness the power of plants to optimize your well-being, vitality, and overall zest for life.
HealGarden draws on the healing power of nature’s botanical treasures to create individualized remedies that nurture your physical and mental well-being. My practice combines the therapeutic potency of meticulously chosen herbs and science-backed practices to delve into the deep-seated issues that hold you back from optimal well-being, restoring harmony from within and guiding you on a path of lasting vitality.
What happens at a consultation?
In my practice, I approach your well-being holistically, guided by the principles of naturopathic medicine. These are:
The Healing Power of Nature
I focus on nurturing your body’s innate energy (vital force), fostering optimal conditions for restoring balance, recovery and well-being.
Identifying the Root Cause
I go beyond the symptoms to address the underlying imbalances and triggers that contribute to your health concerns.
Treat the Whole Person
My treatment considers the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of your being. These dimensions work in harmony to restore balance and vitality, and true healing can only be achieved when they’re in optimal condition.
Everyone is Unique
Each person is unique with distinct needs and responses to treatment. My approach is, therefore, tailored to your specific circumstances and preferences, ensuring a personalized journey towards optimal health.
During a consultation, I’ll ask a blend of general and targeted questions to gather important information about your well-being and understand your specific needs.
Together, we’ll explore your current health status, lifestyle habits, medications, and past medical history to be able to create a bespoke treatment for you. Depending on your health goals, the session may also include a reading of your blood pressure as well as diagnostic assessments of the tongue, pulse and iris.
In the end, this comprehensive information will help me create a holistic roadmap for your well-being, incorporating carefully selected herbal remedies and naturopathic advice, curated just for you. You can have your session administered either online or in-person; no matter which option you choose, you’ll leave feeling empowered and informed, ready to take your next steps towards a healthier, happier you.
Your Role in the Process
While I provide the structure and guidance for your healing journey, your active commitment to the process/treatment is essential. Sure, I’ll be there, walking with you, cheering you on and supporting you every step of the way, but remember this is YOUR journey, YOUR story. Therefore, YOUR full dedication to the experience is fundamental to maximizing your desired results.
Treatment Areas
My natural treatment plans have proven effective for:
Digestive Complaints
General well-being
Male and female reproductive health
Hormonal imbalances and menopause
Stress and Anxiety
Mood Swings
Sleep Disorders
Headaches and Migraines
Fatigue
Low immunity, recurring infections, and allergies
Skin Conditions
Obesity and Weight Management
Respiratory Conditions
Cardiovascular problems
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does herbal medicine work?
Herbs contain a complex blend of biologically active compounds that interact synergistically to restore balance within the body. This pool of active ingredients instinctively targets various symptoms and ailments, promoting overall equilibrium. Moreover, each herb possesses a unique energetic profile. My approach involves carefully selecting herbs with specific energetic qualities to craft individualized remedies that not only provide physical support but also energetically nourish and harmonize the body, mind and spirit.
2. What forms of herbal remedies are used?
In my practice, I primarily use herbal tinctures, fluid extracts, loose herbs, aromatic waters, infused herbal oils, creams, and ointments. These formulations are meticulously crafted to incorporate either the entire herb or specific parts of it, ensuring comprehensive extraction of all active ingredients for optimal therapeutic efficacy.
3. What is the difference between whole herb formulas and standardized extracts?
Standardized extracts contain high amounts of one or a few key active ingredients identified as the most valuable within a specific herb. Standardization is a highly processed way of producing herbal remedies, and this level of refinement disrupts the inherent synergy among the herb’s constituents that collaboratively contribute to re-establishing balance within the body. Whole herb formulas, on the other hand, undergo minimal processing, preserving all biologically active components and their holistic integrity.
4. Are herbal formulas safe?
Yes, herbal formulas are safe, as they are made from healthy plants that are ethically sourced or grown locally in carefully controlled environments.
5. Can I be allergic to herbs?
Allergic reactions to herbs are rare; however, certain species may cause sensitivities in some individuals. If you’re a first-time user, it is strongly advisable to consult with a qualified herbalist to discuss any allergies or potential concerns before incorporating herbs into your regimen.
6. What is the quality of herbs used at HealGarden?
7. Can I take herbs along with my prescription medication?
It is not recommended to take any herbs alongside your prescription medicine. Many herbs can interact with prescription medication, potentially inhibiting the efficacy of the drug or leading to unintended consequences. Please consult with your herbalist and your physician before combining plant-based remedies and pharmacological treatments to avoid compromising the intended outcomes.
8. How long do I need to take my herbal remedies and why?
In my practice, you will be provided with a 4-week supply of herbal remedies after each consultation. Herbal remedies tend to work at a slower pace compared to conventional medications, requiring an extended timeframe for their effects to unfold. A more prolonged period of use, often up to a couple of months, is recommended to sustain the positive outcomes.