I provide primary and complimentary health care for acute and chronic illness within a framework of herbal medicine.
My style of practice is derived from the Eclectic Medical Movement, also known as The American School. This is a paradigm of western herbal medicine that developed in the 1800's, grew and was refined until the early part of the last century when botanicals were the pharmaceuticals of choice in mainstream practice. This school of thought was popularized again among herbalists through the teaching, writing and work of the herbalist Michael Moore beginning in the late 1960's. It is a distinctly American style of clinical thinking with a great deal in common with East and West Asian traditional medicines. The Eclectic movement focused on a patient centered style of care with an intellectual, functional framework more holistic than most medical thought of its day. A primary tenant for the Eclectics was "Treat the patient, not the disease." The Eclectic doctors felt that the patients entire condition was as important as, and sometimes more important than the name of the disease they suffered, and wrote extensively on treating the entire patient not just the text book diagnosis. As medical science was developing rapidly during the golden era of microbiology, the Eclectic doctors made the best use of both newly available scientific diagnostic sciences as well as their own observations about what sped the recovery of their patients in addition to simply attacking a given disease. They catalogued their observations extensively and left us with a vast library of clinical manuals to draw on today. This style of practice is 'Constitutional' or holistic in that I will not give you a diagnosis, but strive instead to identify underlying patterns, address weaknesses, reduce liabilities and address acute complaints by stimulating and supporting innate functions. I treat you, not just your problems. Colds and flu's, bumps, bruises, the effects of various types of accidents and acute health crises are well served by using herbal medicine. Longer term and chronic health issues such as reproductive complaints and autoimmune disorders are also well served by the use of herbal medicines. Herbal medicine works best when administered by experienced herbalists. As a holistic practitioner I look at many aspects of your health and wellness. Your overall quality of life is important to me. I may suggest strategies that include, but are not limited to taking herbal medicines. For example- for depression I might offer herbs that address some of the physical and emotional side of your struggle; but I would also be likely to inquire after other things that improve your quality of life such as community involvement, what brings you inspiration, comfort etc. The practice of herbal medicine is about more than just the herbs. I support and advocate for my clients to seek out and receive the highest quality of care available, including encouraging you to work with standard care providers and other health professionals like therapists, PT's and acupuncturists when needed. I strive to help my clients make the connections that they need for their benefit and long term care and support. Herbalists are unlicensed practitioners in the U.S.A. and we have no governing bodies. Herbalists are protected in practice in CA by State Bill 577. Michael Warner Clinical Herbalist |
Yerba Santa in flower
Eriodictyon tricocalyx |