If you have a health concern, The Whistler invites you to ask our local Consultant Medical Herbalist, Deborah Grant, for advice. Email your questions to: whwhistler@aol.com

Q. I have been suffering with rheumatoid arthritis for the past 10 years but am reluctant to take the anti-inflammatory drugs suggested by my doctor. Can herbal medicine help?

A. Rheumatoid arthritis can be treated effectively by Herbal Medicine and diet. Patients are usually delighted at the reduction in pain and stiffness in their joints. Mobility is also improved. Appointments are monthly for 3 months and then every 3 months. Herbal medication costs approx £10 per week.
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Q: I haven’t slept properly for months now and it’s getting me down. I feel so tired all the time. I have a very full-on job and lots of pressure so must get some sleep. Can you help?

A: You have been running on adrenaline for too long. I suggest you are treated for stress and given a tonic to restore your adrenal function. The medication costs £10 per week.
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Q: Every month I get really bad PMT for a week. On a short fuse and very tearful. Hard to keep it together in the office and have over-reacted to several situations recently.

A: The biochemical changes that occur premenstrually can impact the emotions. Herbal medicine can be very effective in rebalancing the hormones and in getting you back on an even keel.
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Q: After being prescribed three antibiotics for cystitis, it didn’t clear up. My doctor said it’s interstitial cystitis and there’s no cure. Can you help?

A: Yes. Herbal treatment rebalances the body and calms the inflammation thus allowing healing to take place.
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Q: I suffer from migraine. Sometimes I’m laid up for 3 days. Can herbal medicine do anything for this?

A: Yes. After looking at the patient’s diet and lifestyle, I prescribe medicine to help prevent migraine. This approach works well.
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Q: My skin is ruining my social life. I have acne on my face and back. Cream from the doctor made my skin red and dry. As soon as I stop using the cream, the spots come back again.

A: Acne can be caused by hormonal imbalance or a problem with the elimination of toxins by your liver. Herbal Medicine can get rid of acne. Diet also needs to be looked at.
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Q: My sister is often tearful and doesn’t want to go out anymore. She broke up with her fiancé recently but never talks about it. I read that herbs put people in a better mood.

A: It seems as if your sister is suffering from depression. Herbal Medicine can help. She would notice a difference within 7-10 days.
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Q: Every month I get really bad PMT for a week. On a short fuse and very tearful. Hard to keep it together in the office and have over-reacted to several situations recently.

A: The biochemical changes that occur premenstrually can impact the emotions. Herbal medicine can be very effective in rebalancing the hormones and in getting you back on an even keel.

www.herbalist-medicine.com Dyke Road Natural Health Clinic Tel: 01273 561 845