Herbalism

Herbalism uses remedies made from plants: a herbalist asks about your health and lifestyle, then suggests personal remedies such as teas, tinctures or capsules. Plants have been used this way for thousands of years, and traditions include Western, Chinese and Ayurvedic herbalism. Herbal remedies can interact with medicines, so tell your doctor and your herbalist about everything you take, and ask your doctor first if you are expecting a baby. There is some evidence that chilli (cayenne) cream may ease some pain and limited evidence for herbs such as St John’s wort for mild low mood, but many uses rest on tradition: see “Herbal medicine: what the research says”.