My story
My name is Louise Courtney and I am a consulting medical herbalist having completed a four-year advanced diploma in Herbal Medicine with Heartwood College, accredited by the National Institute of Medical Herbalists.
I have long been an advocate of herbal medicine which I discovered through my own health journey. Used alongside conventional medical treatments, I have experienced significant health benefits from using herbal medicine over a number of years, and for a range of complaints. These include digestive issues, hormonal changes, anxiety and netball injuries!!! My confidence in the healing powers of plants finally led to a career change after many years working as an academic in the field of language learning and education. In 2019 I made the bold decision to explore pastures new (quite literally!) and to train as a medical herbalist. And what a great decision it was!
I have been rigorously trained in the medical sciences including diagnostic reasoning, anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology of disease, clinical examinations, pharmacognosy and drug/herb interactions. Alongside the medical training, I have studied the materia medica (the medicinal plants) their constituents, therapeutic actions and uses. A herbalist must be a good, empathic, active listener and this topic and crucial skill are included in counselling and lifestyle training and honed during our 500 clinical hours completed.
I look forward to working collaboratively with my patients to improve their health for the long term and to give them agency over their own health and well-being. Through being professional, compassionate and knowledgeable, and with the power of the herbs, I know these aims are achievable!