Question 1

Do you sell herbal remedies?

Accepted Answer

No - we do not sell products directly to the general  public. This website is designed to be educational with the aim of helping you learn how to make your own personalised products so that you can take ownership and responsibility for your own health and wellbeing. Inner circle members can benefit from our bulk buying discounts of raw materials to create their own herbal preparations. Their monthly subscription also includes  access to stocks of dried herbs, many of which are harvested from our own woodland, to create the signature tea blend each month.

Question 2

How do I know which herbs to use?

Accepted Answer

Herbs are not like pills (one herb for one symptom) and rarely work in isolation. They are much more effective when mixed into poly-herbal blends therefore selecting the right herb, or combination of herbs, is crucial otherwise you are unlikely to achieve the benefits you desire. To do this, you need to focus on the way different herbs work with your body rather than simply looking at the symptoms you are experiencing and also have an understanding of how to blend, the different types of herbal applications that can be used, and any potential herb-drug interactions or contraindications. Some herbal protocols are available on this site to give an overview of the typical herbs that would be suggested for different conditions. However, it is always advisable to consult a trained practitioner before starting to use any herbs, particularly if you are already taking prescribed medications.

Question 3

Can I combine herbs?

Accepted Answer

Yes - absolutely! Herbal alchemy is where the magic really begins. Combining herbs into a ploy-herbal blend can create a much better outcome and a more potent synergistic effect than using herbs individually. Unlike many pharmaceutical products, herbs do not have single uses - they contain multiple compounds that can interact and support different elements of your body at the same time. The Ayurvedic tradition of healing is renowned for its use of complex herbal blends - such as the Kaya Kalpa foundation blend for rejuvenation and transformation - and these powerful combinations are well researched and documented.The herbal protocols on this website identify some typical herbal blends, although these should always be customised depending on individual medical history and existing medications. It is important to know which herbs are working for you, and any which do not suit you, and therefore we suggest you start simply, monitor the effect of each and then add additional herbs gradually until you create a combination that works for you.

Question 4

How do I decide the best way to take a herbal product?

Accepted Answer

Herbs can be prepared in many different ways, including tinctures, glycerites, capsules, infusions, decoctions, powdered blends, pastilles, electuaries, oxymels and topical applications. The purpose and potency of each will vary so it is important to choose the right method and dosage for your specific purpose, individual constitution  and personal preference. Here are the pros and cons of the most common applications:HERBAL PREPARATION DETAILSPROsCONsTINCTURES
Extracted using alcohol and available in different strengthsPotent - easy to blend - easy to dose - long shelf lifeUnpalatable and not suitable for some peopleGLYCERITES
Extracted using glycerineSweet - easy to take - suitable for childrenNeed to be refrigeratedCAPSULES
Powdered herbs encased in capsule shellConvenient - easy to take - easy to dose - different strengths availableCapsule needs to breakdown in stomach to release herbsINFUSIONS
Teas - herbs steeped in boiling waterEasy way to introduce herbs - can be bought as teabags - easy to blend and customise own herbal teas - can be used hot, chilled or sipped throughout the dayCommercial teabags have limited potency and choice of blend - mistake is often using single or limited mix of herbs

Question 5

What dosage do I use?

Accepted Answer

The dosage depends on a number of factors, including the strength of the herbs being used, the active compounds in the herbs and on the way the herbs are being administered. Fresh herbs are not always "stronger" than dried or powdered herbs, tinctures are available in different extraction ratios and herbal capsules can vary in strength depending on the size of the capsule itself. Some herbs have a lower toxic threshold than others and some herbs can have negative effects on the liver and kidneys, if taken in large quantities. You should therefore always consult a trained practitioner before taking medicinal strength doses.Here are some general guidelines for tincture dosages for adults over 18 years of age.  Chronic low grade symptoms1:3 strength tincture5mls twice a day with foodSuitable for long term useChronic high grade symptoms1:3 strength tincture5mls 3x daily with foodSuitable for long term useAcute issues or infections1:3 strength tincture2.5mls every 2-3 hoursMaximum 5-7 daysHerbs typically work gently but the best advice is to start slowly and monitor their effects on your body. Start with a low dose and adjust gradually until you start to feel the benefits. If using a herbal blend then the total amount should include all the herbs in the blend.If you experience any adverse effects or have any concerns then simply stop taking the herbs. However, there are some "red flags" that should always be monitored with extreme care, including sudden breathlessness, dizziness, loss of bladder or bowel control, chest pain, abdominal pain or high fever. In these instances, always seek immediate medical attention. Check the blog and the herbal protocols on this website for additional details of dosage suggestions for different herbal preparations.

Question 6

Can herbs hurt me?

Accepted Answer

Herbs contain active compounds that work with your body's systems. Taken correctly, they can have massive benefits but they can also have adverse effects, especially if taken in large quantities or alongside conventional prescribed pharmaceuticals. This is typically due to the herb stimulating one of your systems that subsequently affects the absorption or function of the medication. For example, a herb that has a diuretic effect can lead to medications being expelled from your body faster than normal, which could decrease the active dosage at times. It is therefore important to consult a medical professional if you have concerns or plan to introduce herbal products into your existing medicinal routine.Some herbs belong to botanical families that have known allergens for certain people. You should always consult a trained practitioner before introducing herbs into your routine, especially if you are already taking prescribed medications.

Question 7

Are herbs safe for children?

Accepted Answer

Many herbs are considered safe for children, while others are definitely not suitable for children under 2 years old.  Children are more sensitive than adults and can react strongly to even the mildest herbs, so herbs should always be taken under supervision and you should always consult a medical professional.  Glycerites and pastilles are  typically more palatable for children as tinctures are extracted using alcohol. However, always be careful not to use honey-based preparations for children under 12 months of age.

Frequently asked questions