What is Herbal Medicine?

Herbal medicine is an ancient form of healing in which medicinal plants, or parts of plants, are used for the treatment, prevention or management of a wide range of health issues. Herbs have been used since time immemorial in various systems of medicine, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, naturopathy, homoeopathy, as well as the basis for pharmaceutical drugs.

Herbal medicine in Melbourne

What are the Benefits of Herbal Medicine?

Herbal medicine is a holistic approach to health as herbs contain organic compounds that activate the body's natural healing mechanisms and bring it back into balance and harmony, otherwise known as homeostasis. The biological activity of each herb is specific to a particular organ, gland or tissue in the body.

By taking into account the patient's diet, lifestyle, physical activity, mental state and emotions, a certified herbalist can address the underlying causes of disease. In this way, they are able to create a customised herbal remedy tailored to each individual's specific needs. The following are some conditions that herbal medicine can help with:

  • Psoriasis, eczema and other skin conditions
  • Asthma
  • Cancer
  • Stress
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive problems
  • High blood pressure
  • Menstrual pain or irregularities
  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Respiratory tract infections
  • Thyroid problems
  • Arthritis
  • Diabetes
  • Multiple sclerosis

How Much is Herbal Medicine in Melbourne?

The cost of an initial consultation with a herbalist in Melbourne ranges from $130 to $180, depending on its duration. In most cases, the price of the herbal medicine is separate from the practitioner's professional fee, and it typically ranges from $25 to $50, depending on what kind of herbs are used. Some herbalists also offer online consultations.

How Many Herbal Medicine Practitioners are There in Melbourne?

There are Western and Oriental herbalists in Australia. The former are relatively few, with only 7% located in Melbourne and other areas of Victoria. Those who practice Chinese herbal medicine in the region make up more than 35% of the country's total registered practitioners of Chinese herbal medicine, which was estimated at 4,000 in 2017.

How Many People in Melbourne Use Herbal Medicine?

The use of herbal medicine is high in Melbourne and other cities and suburbs of Victoria, especially among pregnant women and middle-aged women. In previous surveys, the region had a high rate of herbal users in 2007, with over 17% of 200 respondents reporting using Western herbal medicine, and about 9% reporting using Chinese herbal medicine.