Emma Fordham
An exploratory study: The range of conditions, treatments and referrals seen within a travelling acute herbal medicine clinic
Abstract
The aim of this study was to identify the range of conditions that are treated by a travelling acute herbal medicine clinic; the conditions such a clinic is most likely to be presented with; the types of treatment required; and the limitations to this form of herbal medicine in terms of how often referral is necessary.
Data was gathered through a review of the records kept by “The Medical Herbalists” travelling clinic - which provides first aid and acute herbal medicine at festivals and camping events - and by participant observation within the clinic during the 2001 summer season.
Conditions were grouped according to type (e.g. cuts and wounds; digestive disturbance); according to the treatment given (e.g. first aid; topical application of herbs; internal prescription); and according to whether referral was necessary (e.g. to hospital; to a dentist).
“The Medical Herbalists” travelling clinic is considered in the context of other medical provision at festivals and outdoor events, and in the context of herbal medicine in general.
Included in the Appendices are a breakdown of the conditions treated at three festivals, examples of the herbs prescribed for a few of the most common conditions treated, a list of herbs and medical supplies used by “The Medical Herbalists” travelling clinic, a sample case history form, and photographs of the clinic.
