Our Medical Herbalists

Jo Dunbar

Botanica Medica was founded by Jo Dunbar in 2003. Jo qualified as a Medical Herbalist from the College of Phytotherapy in 1999, and in Clinical Aromatherapy in 1998. Jo continues to study Aromatic Medicine in France, following the French tradition of using essential oils at high potencies. Immediately after her graduation Jo began practising herbal medicine whilst pursuing a post-graduate MSc degree in Complementary Therapies at Westminster University, where she focused on Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

She has written for several magazines such as Positive Health and InterAction, as well as her book 'How to cope successfully with Candida' for Wellhouse Publishing. As well as running two busy practices, Jo acts as a guest lecturer at the South Downs School of Homeopathy and as a mentor for The National Institute of Medical Herbalists.

Jo works holistically, blending an understanding of the the mind and the body with science through the use of diagnostic laboratory tests, herbal medicine and hypnotherapy. In doing so, she aims to pin-point the ultimate cause of illness and then combines herbal medicines with Bach Flower Remedies, French aromatic medicine, nutritional supplements, hypnotherapy and dietary advice to restore health. Although she treats most conditions, Jo has a special interest in ME/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Candida.

Alexandra Boyden

Alexandra Boyden qualified as a Medical Herbalist from the University of Westminster in London. Her interest in Herbal Medicine stems from a degree in Physiology from St Andrews University. This understanding of a more conventional approach to medicine and pharmacology, in addition to working on drug trials at the Royal Marsden Hospital, sparked an interest for her to undertake further study into the more traditional and holistic practice of Herbal Medicine.

Alexandra enjoys the versatility of herbs which enables one to approach each person individually and with sensitivity to their particular need. She has a special interest in treating hormonal imbalance and problems associated with the reproductive system.

Alexandra includes within her herbal treatment protocol the Body Energy Concept which uses the reflexology and acupuncture meridians to enhance energy and vitality.

Jeanne Trill

Jeanne Trill studied Medical Herbalism for five years at the University of Westminster in London, from where she obtained a BSc honours degree to enable her to practice.

Jeanne’s interest in physiology and pathology developed when she qualified as a reflexologist 10 years ago. This, combined with a love of botany and wild flowers, led her to investigate the benefits of herbal medicine. She enjoys using her knowledge of plant based medicine to help treat and support people from all walks of life, across a wide range of ailments.

As well as prescribing herbs based on traditional use, Jeanne enjoys keeping up-to-date with the latest research findings.

Janine Gerhardt

Janine Gerhardt, Medical Herbalist
BSc. (Hons) Herb Med (MNIMH)

Janine graduated from the University of Westminster in 2008 and has since been a practicing medical Herbalist.
She likes to support her interest in the traditional medicinal plant uses with recent scientific research and aims to educate people about their health and lifestyle choices enabling them to take responsibilities about their health.

Janine's approach is holistic, meaning the whole person is addressed and not just their presenting symptoms. She offers over-the-counter advice for minor ailments or thorough in-depth private consultations for more complex conditions. During a consultation a full history is taken. This includes past and present history and medications, diet and lifestyle, sleep, general well-being and other associated factors.

Through raising her children, Janine has developed a keen interest in Family Health matters with safe and gentle herbal approaches yet she insists on keeping her focus as broad as possible.

She has welcomed referrals from other health professionals and is a fully insured member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists (NIMH).

Janine offers consultations in Geman and English.
 

Corinne Montenon

Corinne completed her BSc Hons in Herbal Medicine at the University of Westminster in 2008. From growing up in rural France, she developed an interest in folk remedies that she integrates into the modern UK herbal approach she studied.

With a PhD in the history of beliefs, she combines her understanding of how belief systems can influence physical and mental well-being with Herbal Medicine and lifestyle advice.

A language trainer for more than 10 years, she is also an experienced communicator who uses a communicative approach to empower patients and support them in reclaiming their health. She can offer consultations in English, French or Spanish.

Christelle Stockdale

BSc (Hons), Dip. Herb., ND, MAMH.

Christelle Stockdale had an early interest in plants and botanical medicine, planting her first herb garden aged 12 years old.

Whilst gaining her first degree in Environmental Science, an interest in studying medicine developed and Christelle later studied for five years at the College of Naturopathic Medicine in London, qualifying as a Master Herbalist and Naturopath.

In addition to herbal medicine, Naturopathy brings to her patients the tools of detoxification, fasting, Bach Flower Remedies, Homoeopathy, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda, and alternative methods of diagnosis (tongue, nail, face and iridology). Christelle is also particularly interested in nutrition, diet and food intolerances.

Elaine Cole

I was introduced to the healing power of herbal medicine through first-hand experience and was so impressed with the results that I decided to take a BSc in Herbal Medicine, qualifying in 2009.

My main areas of interest are using herbal medicine to treat respiratory disease, gynaecological conditions and stress and anxiety related disorders. I have had many years of experience in treating respiratory and digestive disorders, as my son has Cystic Fibrosis, and have undertaken wide ranging research into antimicrobial herbs to help reduce the debilitating effect of serious chest infections. This research is particularly useful when used to treat colds and flu as many herbs are both anti-viral and antimicrobial. They can help increase the body’s resistance to common viruses, relieve uncomfortable symptoms and reduce the chances of developing more serious side effects such as chest infections.

I treat patients holistically, taking into account their general health, diet and lifestyle. During the consultation process we agree a treatment plan and I prescribe herbs that are individually tailored to meet their needs. Working together, this process helps to put the patient back in control of their health, restoring balance to the body and improving overall well-being.