Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect at my first herbal appointment with Bronwyn?
Your first appointment will last up to one hour. After a thorough assessment, a realistic treatment plan will be developed. Your individually prescribed medicines will be prepared which will take about 10-15 minutes. All treatment plans are different, though you will probably leave with a bottle of herbal tincture and one or two realistic dietary or lifestyle goals. You may also require nutritional supplements or flower essences.
How long till I see improvements?
This depends on your individual health issues. With conditions such as colds, flu and infections, some improvement in symptoms may be noted within hours or it may take several days to a week. Longstanding conditions (arthritis, skin problems and hormonal imbalances) respond very well to treatment with herbal medicine, with improvements usually being noted within four to six weeks. After your first consultation, you will have a greater understanding of how your body is currently functioning, and what improvement you should expect.
Are my symptoms treatable with herbal medicine?
Most probably! All symptoms arise from some type of imbalance and my approach treats the whole person, therefore illnesses from the common cold to complex long standing conditions can benefit from herbal medicine. If you are unsure, please contact me. 02 49327533
How do I take herbal medicines?
Generally, you will have an individually prescribed 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. You may also have tablets or capsules depending on the individual herbs required and your preference.
How does Herbal Medicine differ from prescription drugs?
In general, herbs stimulate healing and balance the body while drugs often work by supressing a natural body process. Pharmaceutical companies often make drugs by isolating an active constituent from a herb, or producing a synthetic copy. The end result is a drug that is far from what nature produced, often resulting in side-effects. A herb's total effect is a result of the combination and interactions of all of the elements of the plant as it occurs in nature, which gives a medicine without harmful or distressing side effects.
How much does it cost?
Consultations (1 hour) $85
Any medicines prescribed are an additional cost and individually priced
We have EFTPOS facilities and accept Visa, MasterCard and BankCard
Does private health insurance cover the cost?
Most private ancillary 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. You will be provided with a receipt that you may take to your health insurer to claim.
Can I claim my consultations through Medicare?
Unfortunately, Medicare does not currently subsidise the cost of herbal medicine consultations.
Can I take herbal medicine with medications my doctor has prescribed?
Many herbs are perfectly safe to take with medications prescribed by your doctor. However, some herbs do not mix well with medications. I have extensive training in the interactions between herbs and drugs and stay up to date with the latest research in this area. It is imperative that you inform us of any prescribed or natural medicines you are taking. Similarly you should inform your Dr when you are taking herbal medicines and supplements - I can give you a copy of your script if required.
Can babies take herbal medicines?
Yes, babies respond well to herbal medicine.
Can pregnant women take herbal medicine?
Yes, women respond well to certain herbal treatments during pregnancy. However some herbs are contraindicated during pregnancy so be sure to let me know if you are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant.
What are Bronwyn's qualififications and professional affiliations?
Bronwyn studied Herbal medicine with Denis Stewart and graduated in 1985 (Dip HM). She is a member of the Australian Traditional-Medicine Society (ATMS 0561) and a qualified SoulCollage® Facilitator.
Bronwyn adheres to the ATMS code of practice and is committed to further learning and staying up to date with current research and regularly attends seminars, and professional development courses.