SERVICES / / Naturopathic Consultation

What is Naturopathy?

Naturopathic medicine blends a modern evidence-based, scientific knowledge with traditional wisdom and natural forms of medicine. The primary focus is the ‘healing power of nature’ which simply means that we provide the body with interventions that support and stimulate our body’s natural ability to heal itself. These interventions may be through diet and/or lifestyle changes., as well as herbal or nutritional supplementation.

What is Involved in a Naturopathic Consultation?

As a naturopath, with post-graduate qualifications, I will use both herbal medicine and my post-graduate nutritional training to listen to and support you to be a better, healthier version of yourself.

In a consultation I will gather detailed information about why you have come in, details regarding your different body systems, e.g. immunity, digestive and nervous systems, as well as details about your diet and lifestyle and personal and family history. Along with any pathology results you may have. We will then discuss and decide on a plan that is best suited to support you on your health journey.

As part of your treatment plan, I can use herbal medicine and nutraceuticals (nutritional supplements) if they are indicated, as well as an extensive plan for your dietary needs and any lifestyle support.

Tell Me About Herbs?

Herbal Medicine has been around for Centuries. It is still the oldest and still most widely used system of medicine. Most cultures have a history of using plants medicinally, and this continues today. It provides a safe and effective way of treating not only the symptoms but the underlying cause of disease.

How Do Herbs Work?

Herbs contain a large number of naturally occurring chemicals. These natural chemicals have biological activity and can produce a profound transformation in health with few if any side effects, which may be common in drug-based medicine. Examples of some of the medicinal actions of herbs –

Goldenseal – has been used for centuries as a ‘cure-all’, used for sinus infections, liver conditions and indigestion as well as any inflammation of the gut or respiratory tract.

Licorice – this is the actual licorice, not something you would find in a lolly shop. Its sweet taste comes from glycyrrhizin which is 50 x sweeter than sugar. This herb is used to support adrenal fatigue, any upper respiratory problems, and constipation.

Motherwort – the leaves of this herb help support cardiovascular health. It is also a superb tonic for post-menopausal women with any anxiety or palpitations.

Dandelion Root – this herb can be taken as tea – there are many brands in the health food stores and supermarkets. It is terrific for fluid excess, skin conditions, fat metabolism and liver support.

What Conditions Can Herbs Support?

• Skin conditions
• Digestive disturbances
• Adrenal fatigue/insomnia
• Nervous system imbalances/migraine
• Mood imbalances – depression/anxiety
• Women’s health issues – menopause/fertility/PMT
• Hormonal imbalances – thyroid issues/blood sugar disturbance
• Immunity issues – hay fever/sinusitis/recurrent colds & flu/auto – immunity

How Do I Take the Herbs?

Each person is unique, so each bottle of Herbal Medicine is made specifically for each person within the Naturopathic consultation. While the herbs may not always taste great, they strive to calm what is overactive and nourish what is depleted, therefore providing balance to the body. Herbs can be taken as a liquid, specially formulated for each person as mentioned but they can also come in tablet form for convenience, as well as in the gentle form of herbal teas.

What About Herbal Teas?

Herbal teas are a wonderful way to get the benefits of herbs and they taste great! Most herbs can be taken as a tea (some herbs may not taste too good but there are plenty that do).

There are 2 ways to prepare herbs. Firstly, we can make tea from the leaves of dried herbs, we can just add hot water and sip. Sometimes the part of the herb we use is the root of the plant, so a different preparation is needed. Roots require a decoction, which simply means that we have to boil the herb in water on the stove for a few minutes before we drink it. We all need to drink enough fluid daily to stay hydrated so, make a pot of herbal tea every day and drink to your good health!

Can I Take Herbs with Medication?

Sometimes. Herbal Medicine has the potential to interact with medications, which can lead to very serious health conditions. It is very important to consult your healthcare practitioner to make sure these interactions do not occur. Each consultation with Sue will take herb-drug interactions into account so that any of these potential interactions do not occur. Herbal medicine can be a powerful and safe way to achieve and maintain health and well-being.

Make a Move Today

If you would like to try using a herbal formula in your journey to health and well-being and you think an appointment could be right for you right now, please book in with Sue for a Naturopathic Consultation in Neutral Bay or via Telehealth soon. Booking is available online through the website.