Herbalism

Christina Fattori BSc (Hons) Herbal Medicine MCPP
I am a western medical herbalist which means that I have been trained to help people who experience illness by using herbs that are mainly from Europe, Africa and the Americas. 
At Herbs & Erbs I intend to use the highest quality organic grown herbs harvested from sustainable sources and will try and source the herbs as close to home as possible to reduce my carbon emission.
At Herbs & Erbs I aim to:

About Herbs

Herbal medicine has supported humanity for over 2000 years! People from the ancient worlds including the Greek physician Hippocrates (460-377 B.C.E.) used herbal remedies to restore health and countless people worldwide still rely on plants for their healing properties.  In fact many orthodox drugs such as aspirin and digoxin are fabricated from the healing ingredients found in specific plants such as the the willow tree and foxglove.
As a herbalist I have a holistic view which means that I consider every part of your persona during our investigation rather than just focussing on your illness or symptoms.  We are complex organisms and so are plants.  Therefore the herbalist will use all of the ingredients found in a particular flower, leaf or root rather than isolating one ingredient for increased potency.  The herbalist believes that all of the ingredients taken together complement each other and gently nudge the body back to health.
Modern science has confirmed numerous truths about the healing effects of many different herbs through scientific analyses and randomised controlled trials.  However, many more herbs still remain unexplored by science and may therefore be discredited.  I consider both modern scientific knowledge as well as the 2000 year old proof records which herbalists keep.

What to Expect

During your first consultation we will work together for an hour or so to gather as much information about you and your complaint as possible.  This will include factors such as your lifestyle, family history and diet to give me a clearer picture about you. 
Later during the consultation I will measure your blood pressure and if appropriate and with your full consent, perform a physical examination of the affected area.
Afterwards I will determine the most suitable herbs to employ for you and we will discuss a management plan together. 
During your follow up consultation we will discuss your progress and make sure that you are heading in the right direction.  The consultation usually lasts half an hour to forty five minutes.
I usually prefer to see you two weeks after your first appointment to make sure that you agree with your herbal medicine after which a monthly or bi-monthly visit is appropriate until we are satisfied with your new state of health.
Sometimes where appropriate your GP or another therapy may play a role in your herbal treatment although this will always be with your full consent.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 
1.  What can herbal medicine treat?
Herbal medicine can help with most conditions.  My training allowes me to recognise when herbal medication can be used safely or where it may be necessary for you to consult your GP or another therapy first.  Herbs can always offer support.  Below are some commonly treated conditions.  The list is by no means conclusive.
Skin - eczema, psoriasis, fungal infections.
Nervous system - depression, anxiety, insomnia, dementia, migraines, stress.
Respiratory - asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, persistent colds or flu, hayfever.
Cardiovascular and circulatory - high blood pressure, high cholesterol, haemorrhoids, varicose veins, congestive heart failure, angina.
Digestive - IBS, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulosis, acid reflux, candidosis, constipation, diarrhoea, hepatitis, diabetes, ulcers.
Urinary - cystitis, persistent bladder infections.
Reproductive system - polycystic ovary syndrome, fibroids, endometriosis, painful menstruation, thrush, PMS, menopause, infertility, benign prostate hyperplasia and erectile dysfuntion.
Musculoskeletal system - rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout.
General wellbeing, chronic fatigue syndrome, fybromyalgia, thyroid function, allergies, detox and cancer support.
2.  Can I take my herbal medicine alongside my prescription medication?
Most herbs can be taken alongside your prescribed medication.  During your first consultation I will ask about your current medication and keep this in mind when putting together your herbal remedy.  Harmful interactions between herbal medicine and orthodox medications are rare.
3.  How do I take my herbal medicine? 
Your herbal medication may be in the form of a tincture, herbal tea, tablet, powder, cream or lotion but most importantly it will be according to your needs.  Full instructions are enclosed with your herbs.
4.  Can children take herbal medicine?
Herbal medicine is suitable for babies and children of all ages since it is a gentle treatment to which we all respond. 
5.  How long will I need to use herbal medicine?
At your first consultation I will clarify how long your treatment may need to last.  However, during the treatment you may find that your health improves quicker than expected.  Monthly visits are normal and for long term treatments a visit every three months may be adequate.
6.  How does herbal medicine work?
Herbs work to restore balance within the body by stimulating certain functions or relaxing them where necessary.  Herbs are selected to build and strengthen the body's natural responses to ailments in order to heal itself more efficiently.  Most herbs have numerous therapeutic effects within the body. 
Every herbal medicine mixture is tailored to the individual's needs.  And since we are all different most herbal medicine mixtures will be different too.  The herbalist has a selection of roots, flowers, barks, leaves and roots available to help with your healing process.
7.  What is the College of Practitioners of Phytotherapy (CPP)?
The CPP is a professional membership organisation of western medical herbalists that sets the highest standards of practice in herbal medicine.  Established in 1991, it has members in 11 countries including Australia, South Africa and the USA.
All members are required to participate in a professional training scheme updating them with the latest scientific developments in medical and herbal research.  All members are fully insured.

About Me

While living in Cape Town I developed a passion for medicinal herbs through various reading material.  I experimented by growing my own herbs and helped those in need of care.  Unknowingly I started to walk my path as a herbalist. 
I decided to expand my knowledge on the subject by studying a Bioscience degree in Herbal Medicine for 3 years at the University of Westminster in London, and graduated in 2007.  My discipline includes over 500 hours of clinical training and covered modules such as chemistry, physiology, pathology, anatomy and nutrition.  I am a member of the College of Practitioners of Phytotherapy (CPP) and regularly attend nationwide seminars to keep myself up to date in my field.
If you are serious about changing your current health upset and like a challenge then I would love to meet you.

To make an appointment please call us on 020 8545 0965 and ask for Christina Fattori.

£50 per session

Further information:

www.herbsanderbs.co.uk