Phytotherapy, or medical herbalism, is a complementary health system that combines traditional European medicine with the latest scientific research. Phytotherapy is an individualized, patient-centred, holistic, science-based approach that empowers the patient and the herbalist to work together to address the underlying causes of diseases and promotes optimal wellness. It is commonly practiced in advanced countries such as Germany, France, Australia, and the US.
The modern herbalist is a multidisciplinary practitioner with training in medical sciences and holistic skills taught in traditional Western herbal medicine.
The World Health Organisation encourages the rational application of traditional and complementary medicine, especially in the prevention and management of chronic diseases and in meeting the health needs of aging populations. (World Health Organisation Global Report on traditional and complementary medicine 2019)
Herbal medicine, has been utilized by humans for many millennia and worldwide.
Phytotherapy is distinct from traditional herbalism or medicine. It is a profoundly scientific discipline rooted in robust traditional knowledge and wisdom.
While many herbs have a long history of traditional use, ongoing research is crucial to explore new applications and ensure safety, particularly in relation to potential interactions with conventional drugs.
Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine were my first training in herbal medicine.
My decision to train in American naturopathy and Western herbal medicine (WM) was deeply personal, driven by my interests and reasons. This journey has given me a unique perspective on herbal medicine.
So, I am glad I have an overall view of traditional medicine from East to West, which allows me to appreciate each tradition’s unique approaches and philosophies.
Because of my foundation, I learned the formulation techniques used in Eastern and Western herbal medicine, which involve different principles and methods and could integrate herbs from both sides in my formulation.
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Depending on the company’s values and ethics, WM pays attention to the quality of its herbal extracts. In our case, we source as much organic material as possible or from biodynamic farming. We ensure that ours is an eco-conscious healthcare system.
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A truly experienced WM practitioner often customises herbal formulas for the patient, taking a holistic approach. Following a consultation, we carefully consider the client’s overall health and formulate a herbal formula to match their tissue state.
This personalised approach distinguishes us from many traditional medicines, where standard formulations are often prescribed. Traditional WM, such as the American or European tradition, mainly uses low-dose herbs to treat mental and emotional issues. The quality of the herbs is of paramount importance.
The focus on mental and spiritual aspects of WM is likely due to cultural and religious backgrounds. Most pioneers of WM are devout Christians, Muslims, or members of indigenous cultures, such as American Indians. This rich cultural influence adds depth and diversity to herbal medicine.
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In WM, we have two schools. One is phytotherapy, the scientific use of herbs by European herbalists and physicians. The other draws from traditional wisdom, such as German St Hildegard medicine, which I offer as a dedicated course, and Native American herbal medicine. I was trained in both schools. This is phytotherapy. It is based on science and pharmacological and clinical doses. You don’t get this in regular supplements. Our centre is authorised by our local health authority to use ingredients permitted by the TGA (Australia) in our products and remedies.
Phytotherapy is for everyone (children, adults, elderly).
Phytotherapy is a safe and potentially useful complementary medicine that supports healing and coping with chronic health conditions within a holistic context, addressing imbalances in the body, mind, and spirit.
The objective is to stimulate or strengthen the body’s normal functions, thereby assisting it in healing itself, with the help of medicinal plants. Therefore, phytotherapy does not diagnose diseases, prescribe pharmaceutical drugs, or perform surgery.
Based on 20 years of clinical experience and numerous feedback, phytotherapy is a useful adjunct therapy to help in chronic health conditions such as:
We are a team of naturopaths or medical herbalists, not licensed medical professionals. Phytotherapy or naturopathy is intended to support healthy functions of your body, your overall health and wellness and is not intended to replace medical advice or treatment.
The foundation of modern medications, chemistry, perfumes, and botany lies in plant medicine. Many synthetic drugs are also derived from plants.
Also, a report based on extensive research (funded by Victoria’s Department of Human Services) and reviews by La Trobe University in Australia.
Naturopathic and Herbal medicine practitioners are at the forefront of preventive health, helping to manage chronic conditions, reduce the burden on the healthcare system, and empower patients to take charge of their wellbeing.
Evidence shows that naturopathic care, when delivered by qualified practitioners, can improve outcomes for people living with complex and chronic diseases, and often reduces the need for GP and hospital visits.
– Australian Natural Therapies Association
• Is highly trained in the philosophies, principles, and practice of Western herbal medicine and medical science.
• Has a specialist university education from an accredited institution and association.
• combines conventional medical knowledge with a scientific and traditional understanding of plant medicine.
In phytotherapy, plant medicines are selected based on a professional consultation with the patient. Functional tests, medical tests, and differential diagnosis will be used if further assessment is necessary. They are selected to stimulate or strengthen the body’s normal functions, and thereby assist the body to heal itself.
The medical herbalist approaches each client as a unique individual when making a holistic diagnosis. Any herbal medicine prescribed may be a combination of plants chosen for the specific needs of the patient. Herbs that are prescribed may be in the form of tea, tinctures, capsules, tablet, and a lotion/cream for topical use.
A full and comprehensive consultation includes:
Phytotherapy is very safe and effective when prescribed by a fully qualified medical herbalist. Self-care with herbs, due to their complexity, should be complemented with professional consultations.
Medical herbalists are trained to work with physicians’ prescriptions, so your herbal protocol will be selected in consideration of any current medications. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled at regular intervals to monitor your progress and adjust the protocol as needed. Please always let your primary healthcare provider or doctor know about any health supplements or complementary medicines you are taking.
Phytotherapy is found to be very suitable, safe, and useful for babies and children’s ailments and general health. Herbs can alleviate symptoms and facilitate developmental changes such as the maturation of the immune system. Thus, they can benefit the long-term health of the child. It is also a gentle form of medicine that supports their developing body systems.
Phytotherapy, or medical herbalism, is a science-based system that integrates traditional European herbal knowledge with modern clinical research. Unlike traditional herbal medicine, which often relies on standardized remedies, phytotherapy is individualized, holistic, and supported by pharmacological studies. It is commonly practiced in countries like Germany, France, and Australia.
Yes, phytotherapy may help manage chronic health conditions by supporting the body’s natural healing processes. Based on 20 years of clinical experience and consistent client feedback, phytotherapy has shown benefits for almost every body system. A review of 77 systematic reviews concluded that naturopathy and Western herbal medicine tools can be effective for many major illnesses. It is particularly useful in supporting wellness alongside conventional treatments.
Western herbal medicine (WM) customizes treatment through phytotherapy by tailoring herbal formulations to each patient’s tissue state and overall condition. After a detailed consultation, practitioners combine herbs based on both modern research and traditional principles. This differs from typical traditional practices where standardized formulas are used. WM also emphasizes ethically sourced herbs—often organic or biodynamically farmed—and considers emotional and spiritual wellness.
We are a team of naturopaths or medical herbalists, not licensed medical professionals. Phytotherapy or naturopathy is intended to support healthy functions of your body, your overall health and wellness and is not intended to replace medical advice or treatment.
Sebastian Liew Centre Pte Ltd (Registered R200408889Z)
320, Serangoon Road, Centrium Square
#11-10, Singapore 218108
Tel: +65-65389978 or WhatsApp message to +65-88207661
Email: customerservice@leaftolife.com.sg
Learn more – www.leaftolife.com.sg
Note: Please inform us if you are pregnant or having the flu, cold or, fever.
Consultation fees do not include herbal remedies and supplements.
