Clare Holohan is a qualified medical herbalist, massage therapist and clinical aromatherapist. She practices remotely or face to face in Lochaline, and at Lochaber Complementary Health Clinic in Fort William. Clare is a member of The National Institute of Medical Herbalists and is fully professionally insured. Herbal medicine is one of the oldest forms of medicine in the world and is still the most widely used form of healthcare globally. It is a natural system of medicine using plant based preparations to help in the treatment of a variety of health complaints. In the UK, Western herbalists are trained in the same diagnostic skills as GPs as well as studying traditional use of medicinal plants and diet and lifestyle management. Importantly, herbal medicine is green medicine and so is environmentally friendly and sustainable. Everyone is different, so herbal medicine takes a patient centred approach, with the treatment and advice tailored to the individual. It can work to complement orthodox medications and can be used as a supportive treatment to many conditions. In clinic, Herbalists commonly see conditions for which patients consult their GPs. This includes management of chronic conditions, pain and minor acute problems. Herbalists can treat all groups of people including children, elders and pregnant women. Some conditions herbalists see include:
Digestive disorders
Joint and muscular problems
Asthma, allergies and hayfever
heart, lung and circulatory problems
skin conditions
stress and anxiety
low energy
sleep problems
women's health
children's health
A first consultation will last around an hour with subsequent visits around half an hour. The herbalist will ask lots of questions about your general health, past health, diet and lifestyle. A short physical examination may also be necessary, with your consent. The information provided during this is confidential. Treatment can be in the form of tincture, a liquid whole plant extract in alcohol; herbal teas; capsules or powders; creams, ointments or other topical applications, depending on the condition. This is combined with appropriate diet and lifestyle advice on an individual basis. West Highland Herbal strives to use local plants and make most medicines by hand. Others are sourced from reputable UK based suppliers. Clare is available for consultations, by appointment remotely by video call or face to face in Fort William or at the Manse in Lochaline with flexible appointment times to suit the patient.
