Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine
Chinese Herbal Medicine is an ancient healing practice dating back over 2000 years. It has been and continues to be refined through centuries of clinical experience
Herbal Medicine
I hold an MSc in Chinese Herbal Medicine from the University of Westminster, London, and have many years of experience prescribing bespoke herbal formulas as part of an integrated Chinese medicine practice.
How It Works
1. Consultation and Health Assessment
Your treatment begins with a detailed consultation and health assessment based on the principles of Classical Chinese Medicine. This can take place in person or online via Zoom.
During the consultation, we will discuss:
- Your current health concerns
- Your medical history and any medication you are taking
- Your digestion, sleep and energy levels
- Your lifestyle and general constitution
This allows me to develop a clear Chinese medicine diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan.
2. Your Personal Herbal Formula
Following your consultation, I create a bespoke herbal prescription tailored specifically to you.
Each formula draws upon:
- My professional training
- More than 15 years of clinical experience
- Classical Chinese medical texts
- Contemporary research and clinical resources
Your prescription is reviewed regularly and can be adjusted as your condition and treatment needs change.
3. Taking Your Herbal Medicine
Depending on your needs and preferences, your herbal medicine may be provided as:
- A traditional herbal tea or decoction
- Convenient granules or capsules
You will receive clear instructions explaining how and when to take your formula. Your progress will be reviewed regularly to support safe and effective treatment.
4. Follow-up and Review
At follow-up, we review changes in your symptoms, how you are managing the formula and any unwanted effects. Your prescription may be adjusted, continued or stopped according to your response. The timing of reviews and expected costs can be discussed before you begin.
Herb Quality, Sourcing & Ethics
I source herbal medicines from professional suppliers including Phoenix Medical and Balance Healthcare. My prescribing focuses on appropriate ingredients, clear instructions and regular review, alongside attention to quality and traceability.
What quality means in practice
Correct identification, appropriate storage and traceable batches matter. The RCHM Approved Suppliers Scheme audits participating suppliers against standards covering these areas. Supplier quality controls do not remove the need to assess whether a particular formula is suitable for you.
All herbal formulas used in my practice are vegetarian and free from animal products. I do not prescribe ingredients derived from endangered species. Please tell me about allergies and dietary requirements so the ingredients and preparation can be checked.
Read about the RCHM’s supply standards and ethical approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring to my first consultation?
Bring a list of prescribed medicines, over-the-counter products and supplements, including doses. Relevant test results and a brief history of your symptoms can also help. Please mention allergies and any previous reactions to medicines.
Can consultations take place online?
Yes. Consultations can take place in person or by Zoom, as described above. Contact me to discuss which option is appropriate for you and how to arrange an appointment.
How will I receive and take my herbs?
Depending on your needs and preferences, a prescription may take the form of a tea or decoction, granules or capsules. Preparation and dosage instructions are provided with your formula. Ask about collection or delivery arrangements before ordering.
How long will I need treatment?
This varies with your health concerns and response. We can agree review points and discuss whether continuing is worthwhile. Improvement cannot be guaranteed, and the plan should be reconsidered if it is not helping.
Can I take herbs alongside prescribed medication?
Herbs can interact with medicines. Tell me and your doctor or pharmacist about everything you take before starting a formula. Do not stop or change prescribed medication without advice from its prescriber.
Are herbs suitable during pregnancy, breastfeeding or for children?
Do not assume that a natural product is safe in these circumstances. Tell me before booking if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, breastfeeding or seeking treatment for a child. Seek advice from your doctor, midwife or pharmacist before taking herbal medicine; treatment may not be appropriate.
Are Chinese herbs safe, and what if I have a reaction?
Herbs can cause side effects or allergic reactions, and are not suitable for everyone. Assessment and reliable sourcing help manage risk but cannot eliminate it. Stop the formula and seek advice if you develop an unexpected reaction. Call 999 for breathing difficulty or swelling of the lips, mouth or throat.
Are the formulas vegetarian, and do you use endangered species?
My formulas are vegetarian and contain no animal products. I do not prescribe endangered species. Please mention allergies or dietary restrictions so the full preparation, including capsule ingredients where relevant, can be checked.
What will treatment cost?
Please ask for the consultation fee, likely herbal prescription cost and any delivery charges before starting. Costs depend on the preparation and length of the prescription. We can discuss follow-up fees and an appropriate review schedule too.
NHS information about herbal medicines and precautions.