Let nature show us the way.
Western Herbal Medicine supports the healthy structure and function of the body. Herbs are taken to promote vitality, balance, and longevity. The strength of botanicals lies in their capacity to support and nurture the body's innate healing capacity. Simply defined, herbalism is the art and science of skillfully collecting, preparing, and utilizing herbs to nudge the body towards wellness. Herbs and plants can be prepared and used in many ways. They can be taken internally as tinctures, teas, powders, syrups, or capsules. Externally, they can be applied as lotions, oils, salves, and in baths.
Frequently Asked Questions
The current practice of herbalism in the United States focuses on supporting wellness as opposed to fighting disease. Many herbalists believe the strength of botanicals lies in their capacity to support the body as it finds a healing path. In other words, the focus is not placed on herbs “fixing” you but on nurturing the intrinsic wisdom of your body.
The self-care nature of herbalism empowers you to care for yourself and better understand and care for your body. Once your herbal formula and self care is established, the number of office visits will become less frequent.
Possibly the greatest benefit from an herbal consultation is that you will receive a blend of herbs specifically formulated for you. Your constitution, your life history, and your personal goals as well as type of product (i.e., tinctures, powders, teas, or capsules) are considered when creating a formula.
Why would I see an herbalist?
While there has been an increase in the distribution of off-the-shelf herbal products, the assistance of a professional can help guide you to make wise choices and better understand herbal use. An experienced herbalist can help make sure the herbs used are appropriate for you, of consistent quality, and proportioned appropriately for your needs. Concerns you may have regarding possible interactions with pharmaceutical medications can also be addressed by consulting an educated and experienced practitioner. All of the herbal consultants at the Natural Care Center are Registered Herbalists through the American Herbal Guild.
What happens during the consultation?
Your first visit with an herbalist will take approximately 90 minutes. During this time the practitioner will gather information about your past health history, review lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise, discuss your health concerns, and have an opportunity to discuss goals for your future health. The herbalist will conduct a review of organ systems, not to diagnose disease but to explore areas to support health. At the end of the visit, the herbalist will make some herbal recommendations for short- and long-term goals and schedule a follow-up visit.
Where can I go to purchase herbal products that are recommended to me?
Product recommendations made by your herbalist can be purchased at Tai Sophia Institute’s Herb Dispensary, where herbs will be formulated according to the practitioner’s specifications. You are also free to purchase herbs wherever you choose, and your practitioner can supply you with a list of local resources.
How do I make an appointment?
For more information or to schedule an appointment, or call the Natural Care Center at 410-888-9048 ext. 6614.
About the Natural Care Center
At Tai Sophia Institute’s Natural Care Center our practitioners partner with you to bring forth the extraordinary wisdom and vitality of the human body to help you heal and be well, live fully, grow stronger, and be all that you can be. We've been bringing out the best in our clients for over 35 years.