My name is Lucy Wade (NIMH, DipHM), I’m a medical herbalist based in Bristol and the South West. I qualified with a level 6 diploma in Herbal Medicine from Heartwood Education. This course is accredited by the National Institute of Medical Herbalists, the governing body of herbalists practicing in the UK.
I am comprehensively trained in all aspects of clinical practice including herb - drug safety, physical examination, pathophysiology and plant pharmacology. This training also included 500 supervised hours in multiple herbal clinics.
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I am also fully insured through NIMH.
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Plants have a been a constant throughout my life; an early love of botany developed into working at an ecological arts residency in the Andalusian desert in my early twenties. The abandoned landscape made me acknowledge the relationship between people and plants that was missing in my botanical books. I returned to the UK to explore this relationship further and begin a foundation course in herbal medicine. Immediately, I was at home in this career and community. This feeling of curiosity as well as reassurance is something I would love to share with you.
About herbal medicine
What is herbal medicine? Simply put, medicinal plants gently encourage the body back into health. This may be in the form of internal medicine comprised of teas, tinctures (plants macerated in alcohol), capsules or externally, creams, ointments and sprays. Where possible, I prefer to use local, indigenous plants although on occasion their more exotic relatives are necessary.
People have used plants for health, warmth and nutrition since prehistory. Modern herbalists draw inspiration from old traditions as well as evidence based research to form safe and effective individualised medicines.
What example areas can herbs help in?
Chronic illness
Digestive complaints
Musculoskeletal issues and joint disorders
Skin problems
Respiratory issues
Who can benefit?
Herbal medicine is for everyone and always has been. Whether you are seeking help for a specific condition or want to improve your general health, a consultation is a great starting point. No issue is too big or small as herbs help to restore biological functions, balancing the body. They may also be an adjunct to other treatment you are receiving, whether that is another alternative therapy or orthodox medication.