There are just 4 places left on Bel’s day workshop next Tuesday 27th Sept. £40/£45. To book call the RHS on 0845 6121253 booking ref 8565. RHS Harlow Carr Course Information

See our events diary for details of tea tastings, herb walks and make your own herbal remedies workshops…

The National Institute of Medical Herbalists (NIMH) today warmly welcomed the Government’s announcement of the statutory regulation of herbal and traditional medicine practitioners under the Health Professions Council (HPC). Statutory regulation will ensure the continued supply of herbal medicines to practitioners in compliance with new EU regulations.

Bel Charlesworth MNIMH who runs herbal clinics in Otley and Bedale said “This is great news. When EU laws take affect this April there was a real worry that the public would lose access to some traditional herbs such as hawthorn and eyebright that will no longer be available through health stores. Now they will at least remain available through qualified herbalists who can assure their safety and quality. Without regulation there was also a real fear that qualified practitioners would no longer have access to the herbal medicines we prescribe for our patients so massive thanks are due to all those who supported our campaign. Regulation will also hopefully give more people confidence to consult qualified herbalists for a natural, safe, professional and effective approach to all manner of health conditions.”

Statutory regulation of this sector will enable regulated herbal practitioners to deliver high quality herbal treatment in conjunction with other health care professionals. The legislation will support safe and professional practice so that the thousands of patients who consult herbalists every year can be assured about the standards of training and practice of the practitioners they see.

Desiree Shelley, President of NIMH said “The Government is to be congratulated on making the right decision to bring in statutory regulation for all those prescribing herbal medicines. Ministers have clearly recognised that this legislation is for patients’ benefit. The National Institute of Medical Herbalists looks forward to working with the Department of Health and Health Professions Council to implement this as soon as possible.”

Herbalist Bel Charlesworth is now offering a 2 hour initial consultation at her Otley and Bedale practices for those of you wanting a full diet review at your first visit. Cost £65. This may be particularly helpful for those who feel their diet is a key point of concern and are coming from quite a way or will not be able to make a follow-up appointment for a few weeks. In addition to a ‘New patient questionnaire’ you will asked to do a food diary for seven days prior to your appointment. After discussing the reasons for your visit, any issues from the questionnaire and any examinations required as in a standard consultation, she will then use the diary to identify possible problems and to draw up a workable diet for you to follow. For a successful outcome, the diet review process takes the best part of an hour and is offered to all patients at the end of a standard initial consultation for their next visit.

Along with manual lymphatic drainage and her organic facials, this rejuvenating scented warm oil experience has become one of Massage therapist Sylvia Walters most popular treatments with clients across the Leeds, Bradford,Ilkley and Harrogate areas. Aromatherapy and sports/swedish massage also available. For full list of treatments and prices see www.senseitherapy.co.uk

Enjoy a free box of Pukka’s delicious Love tea with purchases of £25 or more thorughout February.

Acupuncturist Jack Hunt is now taking bookings starting on Monday 28th Feb. www.jacupuncture.co.ukJack is a member of the British Acupuncture Council and in addition to treating a wide range of injuries and health problems also specialises in cosmetic acupunture. This offers a natural alternative to Botox and other invasive anti-ageing procedures.

Colin has launched his new website so please take a look at www.eyeswideopentraining.com

Kathy Wood is starting at the Otley Apothecary in 2011.

Please contact us for information on her FREE 20 minute taster sessions in January & February.