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Ruth Theobold Medical Herbalist BSc hons, SROT, Dip HM, NIMH Our hedgerows have burst into life with clouds of pinky-white blossoms, the hawthorn flowers known as May blossoms. Beyond their beauty lies a rich history of medicinal use which continues to this day. Hawthorn (Crataegus species) has been a foundation of traditional herbal medicine for centuries, particularly in Europe. Its blossoms, leaves, and berries are all valued, but the flowers and leaf are gathered in May a

Ruth Theobold Medical Herbalist BSc (Hons), dip HM, MIMH Hay fever, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, affects many people each year as pollen levels rise during spring. Common symptoms include sneezing, watery, itchy red eyes, sinus congestion, excessive mucous, and headaches. These symptoms can affect sleep quality and can prevent sufferers from enjoying outdoor activities such as picnics, and walks in the country side. Common hay fever triggers are tree pollen (ea

Christmas brings an abundance of rich food, roasts, sweets, and more than a little festive cheer! While it’s fun to indulge, heavy meals can aggravate existing digestive issues and lead to discomfort such as bloating or indigestion. Herbs can be valuable allies to soothe symptoms of excess and support healthy digestion. Digestive health is vital for overall wellbeing. The gut absorbs nutrients that build our body and eliminates harmful toxins. Here are key ways to maintain gu

Are you one of those people that dreads winter? Catch every bug going round? Do you come down with a stinking cold when the seasons change or when you stop for Christmas? If you are under stress or have a respiratory or auto-immune condition; then you are more susceptible to ill health. The good news is you can boost your immune system naturally to fight off winter nasties! Herbal remedies taken daily for a month or more before and throughout winter can enhance the immune sys

With shorter darker days winter’s reduced daylight can disrupt the body’s internal clock, our circadian rhythm. This can lower levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter closely linked to feelings of wellbeing. The result for many is a familiar dip in mood, often called the “winter blues.” Common symptoms include fatigue, negative thinking, appetite changes, reduced enjoyment from usual pleasures and sleep disturbances. Many herbs can be helpful in maintaining mental wellbeing

We feel the seasons shift in nature and ourselves, new shoots, the winter chill eases, and longer daylight brings a sense of renewal. Spring has long been associated with cleansing; brushing away cobwebs, and letting go of clutter. Many of us feel the urge to cleanse our bodies after comfort foods and festive excess. The concept of a spring cleanse is rooted in ancient traditions. In Christianity, Lent represents a time of restraint and reflection. In Traditional Chinese Medi

Five minutes on social media, and you will encounter a wellness guru earnestly explaining that your exhaustion, anxiety and sense of malaise can all be traced to one missing ingredient. Fortunately, they have found it! It is protein, collagen or a secret herb that has been used for thousands of years. The modern wellness industry thrives on confidence rather than competence. Complex problems including chronic pain, fatigue, poor sleep, anxiety, metabolic disease, and chronic

As the sun shines brighter, we all spend more time outdoors, which is fun, but it also brings challenges like hay fever, sunburn, bites and stings. Luckily, nature has its own remedies: herbs. These gentle yet powerful plants have been used for centuries to soothe and support the body with ailments. Aloe vera gives instant relief from sunburn with its cooling sap. Rub the inner leaf juice directly onto burnt skin to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Add a few drops of