Western Medical Herbalism with Rieko Oshima-Barclay                             MNIMH, Dip Phyt/ITEC, MCPP

Herbal medicine is one of the oldest forms of medicine in the world, and is still extensively practiced today.  It is also known as "botanical medicine" or "phytotherapy".  Many herbs have powerful medicinal properties and are used to assist the healing process during illness. Herbal medicine can also help in maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

What the Herbalist does    Medical Herbalists are much like the old style GPs; we have studied and trained in the orthodox diagnostic skills.  However we take a more holistic approach i.e. we don't examine the illness or complaint in isolation but try to understand the whole person.  We will try to identify the underlying cause of an illness, thus working holistically and individually.

Prescriptions will be based on and tailor made to the patient's need.  We may also advise on diet and lifestyle if necessary, and we can treat people of all ages.

The Consultation    The initial consultation will last approximately 50 minutes.  During the consultation a full case history will be taken and any necessary physical examination will be made.

Follow-up appointments will last 30 minutes.  The follow-up appointment will usually take place 2-6 weeks after the initial consultation, depending upon the severity of the symptoms.

The Prescriptions    Your herbal remedy will be prepared after each consultation.  They will be individual and usually take the form of tinctures (alcohol based herbal extraction), herbal teas, creams or lotions.

If you are already taking medication or other treatments, we always take this into consideration.  It is important for you to take professional advice and not to stop any treatment without guidance from your specialist.

A Herbalist can offer support with the following conditions: Joint pain; breathing disorders; stress and anxiety; digestive problems; skin problems; headache & migraine; blood pressure problems; reproductive and urinary problems;  seasonal issues.

Herbs can also work to stimulate the body's own healing power and restore the balance of health.

Initial consultation: £45 + herbs

Follow-up: £35 + herbs

Rieko Oshima-Barclay is a qualified medical herbalist and a member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalism (www.nimh.org.uk).  The NIMH is the oldest body of practicing medical herbalists in the world.  She is also a member of the College of Practitioners of Phytotherapy (CPP) which is a leading professional organization for the practicing herbalist and gives the highest standards of care to the public.

Rieko studied herbal medicine at the College of Phytotherapy (Herbal Medicine) in Sussex.  She was a research student at the Medical and Aromatic plant group (Plant science department at The Scottich Agricultural College, Ayr).  Here she studied mainly essential oil and medical plant properties.

For more information or to make an appointment contact the Sunflower Centre on         020 8694 2714 or e-mail info@thesunflowercentre.co.uk