FAQ & Herbal News

Questions & herbal insights

Do you know which plants are harmful and which are used to treat ailments? Here are answers to common questions — and the latest herbal research from around the world.

Frequently asked questions

Before you begin

Can herbs really heal?
There is a growing recognition that herbs can play a vital role in promoting good health. Unlike drugs, many herbs are taken as tonics — that is, like many vitamins, they can be used primarily to maintain good health. We offer advice, treatments and consultation on the correct herbs for your wellbeing.
Are herbs always safe to use?
Without specialist knowledge, herbs can harm. Many people attempt to mix herbs themselves without realising that herbs can interact with conventional medicines, causing dangerous reactions. Don't mess with your health — seek a professional. Your health is the most important thing you possess; don't lose it.
Will herbal medicine replace my current treatment?
No. Herbal care is designed to work alongside conventional medicine, not replace it. Always keep your GP informed of any new treatment, and never stop prescribed medication without medical advice.
How do consultations and treatment plans work?
Every plan begins with a comprehensive assessment to understand your health history and goals, identify underlying imbalances, and analyse physical, metabolic, lifestyle and environmental factors. From there, Dr. Aljratli constructs an individualised herbal protocol made specifically for you.
How much does treatment cost?
Costs vary by the individual procedures and herbal treatments involved. Please contact us by telephone or email and we'll be happy to talk through the costs for your particular needs.
Do you offer online and international consultations?
Yes. Consultations are available online, UK-wide, and Dr. Aljratli also supports patients in the United States and Japan. A full Japanese version of this website is available for Japanese-speaking patients.
What happens during a first consultation?
The first consultation is a comprehensive assessment of your health history, current concerns and goals. Dr. Aljratli reviews physical, metabolic, lifestyle and environmental factors to identify underlying imbalances, and from there designs an individualised herbal protocol made specifically for you.
Which health concerns do people seek herbal support for?
People commonly seek support for low energy and fatigue, skin concerns, circulation, digestive comfort, and hormonal and metabolic balance. Every case is assessed individually, and herbal care is always offered to work alongside conventional medical treatment — never to replace it.

Latest Herbal News Worldwide

From around the world of herbal research

Ashwagandha may ease stress and anxiety (2024 review)

A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis of 15 randomised controlled trials (873 participants) reported that standardised ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract significantly reduced cortisol, perceived stress and anxiety scores compared with placebo, with a favourable safety profile. As with any herb, it is best used under professional guidance and alongside — not instead of — conventional care.

Systematic review & meta-analysis, 2024

Turmeric (curcumin) and knee osteoarthritis pain (2024)

A 2024 network meta-analysis of 17 clinical trials found that turmeric/curcumin preparations significantly reduced knee osteoarthritis pain (WOMAC scores) versus placebo, attributed to curcumin's anti-inflammatory action. Mild, short-lived side effects were occasionally reported. Options like this are best combined with conventional care and professional advice.

Network meta-analysis, 2024

Peppermint oil for irritable bowel syndrome

Pooled clinical trials have found peppermint oil more effective than placebo for overall IBS symptoms and abdominal pain, though mild effects such as heartburn were more common. It remains one of the better-studied herbal options for digestive comfort — and, as always, is best taken under professional guidance.

Systematic review & meta-analysis

Indian herbal extract regulates blood sugar & cholesterol

Gymnema sylvestre, which grows in the Indian subcontinent, has been used as a natural folk medicine for maintaining optimal health since 6000 BC. Several Indian tribes have used its leaves for centuries as a folk remedy. It has been clinically studied for helping maintain blood sugar and cholesterol levels, with no side effects reported.

New Delhi (IANS)

Spearmint tea and excess-hair conditions

Drinking two cups of spearmint tea a day might help treat women with a condition that causes excess hair growth on the face, breasts and stomach, Turkish researchers report. The tea is said to work by lowering the levels of circulating male hormones in these women.

Phytotherapy Research

Rose-hips for rheumatoid arthritis

Rose-hips could offer a cheap and effective way of easing debilitating rheumatoid arthritis, research from Germany and Denmark has suggested. In a six-month trial of 74 sufferers, activity among those taking the rose-hip remedy improved by 20–25%, according to results presented at the annual EULAR meeting.

Germany & Denmark study

Herbs as everyday tonics

Studies suggest some herbs can support healthy cholesterol, improve blood circulation and enhance immune function — helping the body maintain good health. Increasingly, people prefer to take a herb that helps them stay well rather than a drug once they are already unwell.

Herbal & Natural Medicine

Still have a question?

Speak to Dr. Aljratli directly

If your question isn't answered here, get in touch — we're happy to talk through your needs and how herbal medicine may help.

Page last reviewed: July 2026 · Dr. Ali Aljratli, Herbal & Natural Medicine