Medical Herbalism

Lesley Dawson DipHM MNIMH;   BSc MSc, ProfD, DipSM, MCSP

Lesley Dawson is a Medical Herbalist and member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists. Previously she had a long and varied career working as a Chartered Physiotherapist in the NHS and within Sport Medicine. 

What is herbal medicine?

Herbal Medicine uses plants and plant parts (e.g. root, flower, leaf, tree, fungi, seaweed) to treat illness and promote health. Gentle but powerful, it works well on its own or alongside orthodox medicine, treating the whole person not just their symptoms. Herbal treatments are usually prescribed in the form of teas, tinctures, creams or capsules. 

Is it safe?

Medical Herbalists train for 3-4 years full time, undergoing a minimum of 500 hours clinical contact. They are trained to assess and manage a wide range of conditions in people of all ages, and to prescribe herbs alongside conventional medicines while taking into account any possible herb-drug interactions. Conditions commonly seen in herbal practice include:

  • Musculoskeletal pain e.g. rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, sprains and strains
  • Digestive problems e.g.  IBS, SIBO, constipation, reflux
  • Skin conditions e.g. eczema, psoriasis
  • Hormone health e.g. menopause, perimenopause, PMS, PMDD
  • Urinary problems e.g. BPH
  • Gynaecological issues
  • Emotional health: anxiety, sleep disturbance
  • Respiratory conditions: asthma, COPD
  • Allergies
  • Circulatory problems

What should I expect?

First consultations last around an hour; this allows time to explore possible root causes of your symptoms, including lifestyle, diet and emotional wellbeing.  During the consultation the Medical Herbalist builds up a picture of your health, discussing onset and progression of symptoms as well as any investigations you may have had. Your past medical history including allergies, medications and family history are also considered. They may perform a short physical examination such as taking blood pressure, listening to the chest, examining joints, skin, nails, eyes and mouth, or gently press on or around your abdomen. 

An individualised herbal treatment plan will be developed specifically for you, with follow up appointment arranged for a few weeks later.

Contact details: Hillfootsherbalist@outlook.com

Clinic days: Alternate Friday morning or Saturday afternoon.