Balancing science and tradition
Professional, personalised, herbal medicine in a relaxed setting
Welcome to The Authentic Herbal
I believe in treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms. My approach to herbal medicine combines traditional wisdom with modern research to foster healing, balance and wellness.
I offer individual appointments at my garden apothecary and blend herbal medicine, tailored to your individual needs.
Whether you are new to herbal medicine or have tried it before, please get in touch to discover more about how the gentle power of herbal medicine can help you.
An example of a herbal medicine tea mix
About herbal medicine
What is herbal medicine?
Herbal medicine isn't new - it has been used safely for thousands of years.
Plants are amazing, each one contains lots of different components called phytochemicals which support the plants health. 'Phyto' means 'plant' and herbal medicine is also called phytotherapy, literally 'plant therapy'
Many of today’s drugs were originally made from plants, however, herbal medicine isn't about replacing a drug with a herb.
Herbal medicine uses the whole plant or a specific part of the plant, eg. the root, the leaf, the flower, rather than just one concentrated phytochemical.
When used as medicine, plants can combine and work together (synergistically). They work gently to restore health and balance to both body and mind, using all the additional paths of help created by the mix of phytochemicals in each plant.
Following a detailed consultation with a herbalist, a personalised selection of herbs will be carefully blended for you into different preparations. This might be one or more of a tea, tincture (containing a small amount of alcohol), a cream, capsules or a powder.
Herbal medicine can be used to help with many different conditions and can also be used alongside and to support conventional medicine.
about The Authentic Herbal
About me
Robyn Volkers
Medical Herbalist, MNIMH, MCPP, BSc, BSc (hons), RGN ,
I am a member of The National Institute of Medical Herbalists (NIMH) and The College of Practitioners of Phytotherapy (CPP).
I hold a 1st class honours BSc in Herbal Medicine from Westminster University, London which included studies in biochemistry, botany, anatomy and physiology as well as plant materia medica and over 500 hours of clinical practice.
I also have over 30 years experience as a registered nurse.
After leading a double life as a medical herbalist alongside a busy nursing career, I decided to move to working full time as a herbalist in 2024.
I now work from my garden apothecary in Ludlow, Shropshire, where I am able to offer professional, personalised herbal medicine consultations and make up herbal preparations in a relaxed setting.
I use western herbal medicine and aim to balance the wisdom of herbal tradition with the science of modern research. I use organic products wherever possible and source herbs sustainably.
If you like the sound of my approach and are interested in working together, then please get in touch to arrange a free 15 min telephone call and see if herbal medicine is suitable for you.
Is herbal medicine right for me?
Herbal medicine can help with treatment and/or prevention of a wide range of conditions and support you both physically and emotionally. There are too many conditions to list, so, if you are interested in finding out if herbal medicine might help you then please get in touch.
It is usually possible to take herbal medicine alongside other medication but some medicines and herbs can clash. I will check any herbs I prescribe do not clash and you should always let your GP or hospital team know that you are taking herbal medicine.
What you can expect at The Authentic Herbal
- Confidential, professional, considered and personalised care
- The right herbs for the right amount of time - Although you may notice an effect quickly, herbs often work slowly and, depending on your condition, you are likely to need several appointments. I don't believe in unnecessary appointments and treatments. My aim is for you to improve so you no longer need herbs!
- High quality herbal medicines prepared just for you with sustainably sourced ingredients.
- A herbal medicine consultation that looks at the whole you - body, mind, and lifestyle. I work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that meets your unique needs.
Get in touch
Ready to take the first step towards feeling more like you?
Get in touch to arrange a free 15 minute telephone call
Useful information
What does a herbal consultation involve?
Initial consultations will be a
longer appointment (90-120 mins)
This involves a confidential in-depth discussion over a cup of herbal tea.
This allows me to create an in depth picture of you and your health.
I will also check your blood pressure, pulse and, depending on what you are asking for help with (and your consent), some minor physical examinations.
At the initial consultation we will discuss the need for followup appointment(s). These are usually monthly to start with and you will also be able to contact me between appointments.
Follow up appointments are shorter usually 30-45 mins to check any changes in your condition or other medications.
After your appointment I will make up your personalised herbal medicines. I will either ask you to call back the same day to collect your herbs or will arrange collection or postage within the next couple of days .
Online appointments are possible in most circumstances please ask.
Free introductory telephone call
If you are wondering if herbal medicine could help you please get in touch to arrange a free 15 min telephone call.
This will help you to find out more about how we can work together and to see if your condition is suitable for herbal medicine.
This call is also an opportunity to discuss any accessibility issues and for you to ask any burning questions.
I find telephone the most convenient way to have this conversation but if that's difficult for you then let me know and we can sort an alternative.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Prices for consultations at The Authentic Herbal
Prices for consultations at The Authentic Herbal
- Introductory call:(15mins): Free
- Initial consultation: (90-120 min): £65
- Follow up consultation: (30-45 mins): £45
- Herbs: Average additional cost £20-30 per month*
Please note payment is due at the time of consultation Herbal products will be made individually for you after payment is made. A cancellation charge of £30 may apply for cancellation with less than 24 hours notice.
Concessional rates may apply, please ask for further details if required.
*Herbs are charged separately as the cost will vary depending on the herbs used and the type or number of products. This will be discussed with you at the appointment and the treatment plan will consider your budget.