Modalities of Treatment

Herbal Medicine

The power of plant medicine was almost unbelievable to me when I first began using well-crafted herbal formulas at medicinal strength. Initially a skeptic, I soon discovered the profound effects these natural remedies could offer—a sentiment shared by more than half of the clients I see.

You might be surprised to learn that many pharmaceuticals are derived from compounds found in common herbs. For example, paracetamol contains salicylates, which are naturally occurring compounds in willow bark and meadowsweet. However, the true magic of plant medicine lies in the synergy provided by nature. Unlike isolated pharmaceutical compounds, whole plants contain a balance of compounds that work together, reducing side effects and providing a more holistic healing approach. These plants gently restore and strengthen the body, addressing imbalances without the aggressive effects often associated with conventional medicine.

In my practice, I prescribe herbal medicine based on a comprehensive evaluation, which includes your case history, traditional diagnostics like tongue and pulse analysis, conventional diagnostics such as blood tests and blood pressure measurement (if needed), and iridology. My goal is to identify the root causes and any traditional energetic imbalances. While I do provide some symptom relief to make you more comfortable, the primary focus is on deeper healing, rather than mere symptom suppression, with the aim of restoring balance over time.

How Long Will I Take the Prescription?

Typically, I review herbal prescriptions once a month unless there is a specific reason to see you sooner. I avoid setting rigid time frames, as ill health is influenced by many variables. My goal is to help you regain your health as quickly as possible and to be a resource for you in the future, should you need further support.

Is Herbal Medicine Safe?

Safety is a common concern, and the answer can vary depending on which medical professional you consult. It's important to consider that pharmaceuticals are responsible for thousands of deaths annually, whereas herbal medicine rarely causes side effects. When side effects do occur, it is often due to the use of isolated compounds (which is more akin to synthetic medicine than true plant medicine) or the irresponsible use of herbs in unsafe dosages. If any undesired effects arise, the prescription is stopped immediately, and the herbs are quickly metabolized and eliminated from the body, as they are natural substances.

My training allows me to carefully review any pharmaceuticals you may be taking alongside herbal prescriptions and to identify potential interactions. I do not prescribe any herbal medicine known to have adverse interactions with your current medications. Your safety and well-being are my top priorities.

Naturopathy

Naturopathy is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on natural remedies and the body's inherent ability to heal itself. It emphasizes the prevention of illness and the treatment of underlying causes of disease rather than just addressing symptoms. Naturopathy integrates various natural therapies and practices, including:

Nutrition: Emphasizing the importance of diet and nutrition in maintaining health and treating disease. This may include dietary changes, supplements, and nutritional counseling.

Herbal Medicine: Using plant-based remedies to support the body’s healing processes.

Lifestyle Advice: Offering guidance on lifestyle changes that promote health, such as improving sleep habits, increasing physical activity, and reducing stress.

I take a patient-centered approach, tailoring treatments to your individual's needs. Spending considerable time with you to understand your health, history, lifestyle, and personal circumstances, aiming to treat the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.

Naturopathy is based on several core principles:

• First, Do No Harm: Choosing treatments that minimize the risk of harmful side effects.

• The Healing Power of Nature: Trusting the body’s innate ability to heal itself when supported correctly.

• Identify and Treat the Root Cause: Focusing on addressing the underlying causes of illness rather than just alleviating symptoms.

• Doctor as Teacher: Educating patients and encouraging them to take an active role in their health.

• Treat the Whole Person: Considering all aspects of a person's health—physical, mental, emotional, and environmental.

• Prevention: Emphasizing preventive care and healthy lifestyle practices to maintain wellness.

  Naturopathy can be used alongside conventional medicine, or as an alternative, depending on the individual's health needs and preferences. It particularly resinates with those seeking a more natural, less invasive approach to health and healing.

Iridology is the study of the iris, the colored part of the eye, where unique patterns and characteristics are believed to reveal information about a person's predispositions, tendencies, and constitutional strengths and weaknesses. This clinical tool is used to help individuals understand themselves better and adjust their lifestyle accordingly to enhance both the quality and quantity of life.

In my practice, I utilize iridology in two distinct ways:

1. Iridology Consultation: This appointment focuses exclusively on iridology. It's an opportunity to delve deep into the unique patterns of your iris. I provide each client with a comprehensive Constitution Plan, which includes detailed insights into their iris patterns, identifying both strengths and potential weaknesses. The plan also offers tailored lifestyle, dietary, and herbal advice to support their individual constitution and overall well-being.

2. As Part of a Broader Consultation: During regular consultations, I use iridology as a diagnostic tool. It helps me identify predispositions and potential contributing factors to current health issues, allowing for a more personalized and effective treatment approach.

Case Report

During an Iridology Consultation, I began by analyzing the client's iris fibers, identifying them as loose and flexible, indicative of a Flexible-Adaptive Disposition. This type of fiber pattern suggests that the individual is typically an excellent listener and can adapt well to various environments. However, the open fibers also point to less robust connective tissue, making them more susceptible to weak ligaments and injuries. Frequently a sign I have observed in individuals with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a genetic connective tissue disorder characterized by hypermobile joints, stretchy skin, and a tendency to bruise easily.

When discussing these findings, the client resonated strongly with the analysis, sharing that any impact sports or vigorous physical activity often resulted in injury. This connection between their iris patterns and their physical experiences guided my treatment.

My report provided the client with detailed information on how to nourish and strengthen their connective tissue, including dietary recommendations, supplement, and specific exercises that are more appropriate for their body type.

Iridology