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Managing Asthma

A piece in the news recently suggests ‘complacency’ in the management of childhood asthma in Scotland. Herbalists use a wide variety of herbs to help manage asthma symptoms and support the health of the respiratory system. As research continues to support...

Manuka honey and antibacterial properties

Many people know about the antibacterial properties of manuka honey and its topical use in hospitals and it is again in the news with an article about how it may be useful in treating bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics. A disadvantage of antibiotic use is...

Hay fever season

It may not feel much like hayfever season at the moment, but for people who suffer, treating with herbal remedies about 6 weeks before it all starts can increase effectiveness. Hayfever involves an inappropriate (allergic) immune response to a plant protein (e.g. in...

Insomnia

A news item today reports on the widespread problem of insomnia with an estimated 30% of UK adults suffering. I often prescribe herbal mixes for uncomplicated sleep problems to encourage healthy sleep patterns, which can often be due to unhelpful habits...

Cholesterol, statins and herbal remedies

Statins are in the news today with questions about over-prescribing in healthy people. They are used to reduce blood cholesterol due to an inhibitory effect on the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase which controls the rate of production of cholesterol. Cholesterol can be...

Festive over-indulgence!

Some people’s bodies have had to deal with (delicious) dietary excesses recently and a healthy liver is fundamental to efficient processing of alcohol and rich food. Benefits of a well-functioning liver include clear skin, good digestion and general well-being and...