Herbal Medicine

Herbal Medicine involves using the healing properties of plants to support wellness is a practice as ancient as humans themselves. We find evidence of herbs being used centuries ago and this time-honored discipline continues today with the added impact of scientific research and advancement.

At Richmond Natural Medicine, our naturopathic doctors bring years of study and experience to the care of our patients. Their comprehensive knowledge includes undergraduate pre-med study as well as doctorate degrees in naturopathic medicine. This means that their training includes pathology (the process of disease in various organ systems) alongside how to use natural remedies, like herbal medicine, to help heal the cause of disease. They’re well equipped to provide safe and effective wellness options for our patients.

Herbal Medicine Today

Today, we are fortunate to have access to countless areas of research and medical breakthroughs relating to herbal medicine. This includes a better understanding and appreciation for the medicines that have existed and been used effectively for hundreds of years.

Clinical trials have helped us further our understanding of herbal medicines in scientific ways. Additionally, there is a tremendous amount of traditional use and expertise of the therapeutic potential of herbal medicine. Countless case studies and anecdotal evidence illustrate the positive influence of plant medicine on a variety of health issues. We are now able to utilize both of these areas- centuries-old tradition and scientific research – when it comes to using western herbs. Taken together, this makes for a well-informed understanding of the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants.

How Can Herbal Medicine Support My Health?

Herbal medicine has a unique offering in today’s demand for individualized treatments and personalized medicine. Naturopathic doctors look at the whole person when offering support for ailments. Where much of modern medicine isolates health concerns, naturopathic doctors take a wider look at the body. They use herbal medicine as one of there tools to support a person’s overall health. For example, on further investigation of a headache, they may find that one patient’s digestive system needs help, while another patient’s hormones need to be balanced.

By choosing to see a naturopathic practitioner, you will benefit from specialized knowledge and a tailored and holistic approach to your health needs. You will be in the care of someone who understands appropriate dosing of herbs, interactions with pharmaceuticals and energetic qualities of matching herbs and foods with people. You will be provided with a custom-compounded herbal formula, often a tincture or tea, or possibly capsules for your unique body. There are children-friendly doses and options, too. Some herbal medicine is also safe and effective during pregnancy and lactation – this is something a naturopathic doctor would discuss further.

The practitioners at Richmond Natural Medicine identify areas – perhaps more than one – that may benefit from support and then use herbal medicine as one of their tools to help restore health.

Occasionally herbal medicine will also be encouraged for use topically – perhaps as poultices to apply to weakened areas of the body to promote healing. Adding herbs to baths, skin sprays or salves, steam inhalations and meals are other unique ways that a naturopathic doctor may use herbal medicine with you.

What can herbal medicine be used for? Quite nearly everything! Most common health benefits include:

• Digestion enhancement
• Weight loss
• Circadian rhythm and sleep balance
• Women’s health and wellness/hormone balance
• Central nervous system stress and anxiety (this is a really common one)
• Seasonal immunity and allergies
• Energy and stamina/ adrenal support
• Pain management and mobility support
• Skin issues including acne, eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis
• Easing the side effects of conventional pharmaceutical medications and interventions (including cancer care)

At Richmond Natural Medicine, Our Naturopathic Doctors may use herbal medicine with a combination of other support methods to help provide support to some of the conditions listed above.

Looking for more information? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions on Herbal Medicine