Frequently asked questions
Why see an Herbalist?
Are herbs safe to use?
How long will treatment take?
Are you licence?
Will my insurance cover the treatments and visits?
While the reasons for using herbs are many, some start out by trying over the counter products that have been recommended to them or that they have seen advertised. Using over the counter products can be confusing and many times unproductive, unless one has knowledge about the herbs and their proper uses and contraindications. In working with an herbalist, the treatment will be targeted to the root of the problem and often several complaints can then be worked on under one formula or plan. A trained practitioner will have the compiled knowledge and recent research of individual herbs and their uses clinically and will also work with you on nutrition and other issues impacting your health. It will also insure that the treatment is adjusted as the conditions clears up and that any medication you use is taken into consideration.
Are herbs safe to use?
All chemical substances have the potential to be harmful, but herbs are still safer when properly used than drugs. Herbs contain many active constituents and anything in inappropriate doses or used inappropriately can be harmful. Certainly the idea that "if a little is good, more is better" is unsafe. This is why it is best to work with a qualified herbal practitioner. At Midnight Sun I obtain the best quality herbs and herbal patent formulas (bottled pills) available. I most use Chinese herbs. There are Consumer sources a layperson can check out, for example American Herbal Products Association - www.ahpa.org and Consumer Labs - www.consumerlab.org for information about herbs, quality, uses and safety.Length of treatment will vary depending on whether the problem is an acute or a chronic problem. Acute situations such as; cold, flu's, seasonal allergies, itching and certain pain conditions can take from a few hours to a few of days to resolve. Chronic situations (and some individuals have issues with several chronic problems simultaneously) will take longer, from a few weeks to several months. Herbs generally work more slowly that drugs, but correctly directed they are intended to resolve the underlying situation. A qualified practitioner will be up-front about how long they think it may take.
There is currently no licensing requirements for herbalists in the US. I am certified through the East West School of Herbology. I am also registered as a as Professional Herbalists through the American Herbalist Guild. Herbalists with appropriate and suficient training and clinical experience can apply for for such a registration. They can then use the title of RH(AGH). Acupuncturists who also work with herbs have their own licensing and certification process, but they too are only licensed as acupuncturists.
Will my insurance cover treatment and visits?
As far as I am aware insurance companies do not cover herbal treatments, but clients have at times submitted claims with the invoices they receive and gotten them covered. There is also available on the marked supplemental insurances as well as health savings accounts which can be used for this type treatments. Click here for more information Talk to a qualified health insurance broker for specific information about eligibility.
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To make an appointment
email: Bodil or
call 301-270-1582
