Catherine Bunton

What is the difference between a naturopath and a herbalist?

A Herbalist and a Naturopath both receive similar training covering anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, iridology, philosophy of natural medicine, as well as dietary and lifestyle issues contributing to illness. A naturopath may also learn about homeopathy, flower essences and massage. Naturopaths often use a variety of healing modalities in their practice. A Herbalist is trained in all these modalities, but also undertakes advanced training in the use of herbal medicine extracts.

Catherine has chosen to specialise in the use of herbal medicines as she has seen the power of using safe, natural plant extracts to support the healing process.


What can I expect at my first appointment?

Your first appointment will usually last 60-90 minutes. Catherine will take a detailed history of your current and past health status, as well as using a variety of diagnostic techniques such as iridology, nail analysis and tongue analysis. You may also be asked to get some pathology testing done before your next appointment. If you have any results from recent tests done by your doctor you should bring these along.

After a thorough assessment, Catherine will take some time to discuss your health goals and a realistic treatment plan will be developed with you. You will probably leave with a herbal tincture and one or two realistic dietary or lifestyle goals. Some people decide to complement their treatment with nutritional supplements or Bach Flower Remedies.


How long will the treatment take?

This depends on the individual. For acute conditions, such as the flu, symptoms should start to improve within a few hours to a day and treatment may only be needed for 1-2 weeks. For longer term conditions, you may feel some improvement within a few weeks and treatment could continue for some months. On your first appointment, Catherine will discuss a treatment plan with you, including an estimate of how long you can expect the treatment to take.


How do I take herbal medicines?

Generally, Catherine will blend an individual prescription for each client, tailored to meet your unique health needs. This will be a liquid herbal extract, taken two or three times a day with water or juice. Some people find the taste a little unpleasant initially but soon get used to it. Most people love the taste of their medicine and look forward to it as a treat! Catherine may also prescribe herbal extracts in the form of tablets or tea, depending on the individual herbs required and client preference. If you have any questions about the type of herbal extract used, please ask when you call to make your appointment.

Catherine uses only the highest quality, government approved (TGA) herbal medicines.


I have private health insurance, does this cover the cost of my consultations?

Most private health insurance will cover part of the cost of a herbal medicine consultation. Check with your provider to make sure you are covered if you wish to claim the consultation.

The MAPS for Bipolar Disorder program is not covered by private health insurance.


Can I claim my consultations through Medicare?

The MAPS for Bipolar Disorder program is covered by Medicare if you have a referral from your GP or psychiatrist. You can claim $66.67 for each of the 12 consultations.

Unfortunately, Medicare does not currently subsidise the cost of herbal medicine consultations.


Is it safe to take herbal medicine with medications my doctor has prescribed?

Many herbs are perfectly safe to take with medications prescribed by your doctor, in fact some herbs can even help your medication to work more effectively. However, some herbs do not mix well with medications, even some of the herbal preparations you can buy over the counter may interfere with medication. Catherine has extensive training in the interactions between herbs and drugs and stays up to date with the latest research in this area. You will need to bring all your medications, both prescribed and over the counter to your first consultation. Catherine ensures that all herbal tinctures prescribed are safe and effective for each individual.


What is Occupational Therapy and how does it fit with herbal medicine?

An Occupational Therapist (OT) is an allied health professional who assists people to live as independently as possible. They can be found working in many diverse areas such as stroke rehabilitation, managing chronic illness (eg arthritis, heart disease, mental illness), children with learning disabilities, home modification to increase independence and work rehabilitation.

Catherine has found that her training and clinical experience as an OT gives her an excellent understanding of the medical model of illness and helps her to work effectively with doctors and other health professionals in the management of complex and long term illness. She embraces a scientific approach to healing while drawing on thousands of years of traditional practice of herbal medicine to bring her clients the best of both worlds.