Elizabeth (Betty) Patten - Medical Herbalist BSc (Hons) MNIMH MCPP

My passion for herbal medicine started while I was still in my teens. Upon discovering herbal medicine, I was immediately aware that this would be what I would dedicate my life to. I became involved in various projects and businesses centred around herbal medicine - including shops stocking medicinal herbs and helping to run a community apothecary and herb garden at a social centre in Bristol. My interest grew and has culminated in my studying for a degree from University of Westminster in Western Herbal Medicine.

I am a fully qualified medical herbalist, having achieved a first class honours in my degree at University of Westminster in Western Herbal Medicine, and was awarded the 2015 Henry Potter Student Prize by the National Institute of Medical Herbalists. This means I am trained in clinical application of herbal medicine. I am a member of two professional bodies; The National Institute of Medical Herbalists and The College of Practitioners of Phytotherapy.

My training centred around the pathophysiological processes of disease, and how to effect change with herbal medicine. We are not doctors, but herbalists study pathology, dietetics, biochemistry and phytochemical actions within the body, pharmacology, drug interaction, botany, clinical examination and diagnosis. Knowledge of medicine making and prescription creation allows me to design specifically personalised medicines and treatment plans for a targeted approach to the whole body and mind.

Aside from the study of disease and treatment, we also value the therapeutic relationship and place great worth in the trust grown between the practitioner and patient.

Personally, I am a keen gardener and forager, enjoy visiting botanical gardens, dog walking and making medicines.