Not diagnosing

[AnnettStudent]

I know we’re not supposed to diagnose anyone/anything. So, is there a guideline you use when listening to a person’s situation that would help get to the bottom of things? Any tricks you can share about diagnosing (but not)?

Do you suggest a doctor for diagnosing and then someone comes back with that info and asks for further herbal help? What is the best protocol for helping another person and self to diagnose an ailment within the herbal realm?

[Dr. Patrick JonesHomestead Instructor]

Diagnosing and prescribing are against the law for an herbalist and are the quickest way (other than telling someone to stop taking their medications!) to bring the Eye of Morder on you and get yourself into a lot of hot water legally.

Besides the legal issue, there is the ethical issue. If you don’t have the knowledge and training to diagnose an ailment you could do a person a great disservice.

If a person says they have “frequent urination” what does that mean? It could be a bladder infection, kidney failure, diabetes mellitus, diabetes insipidus, Cushing’s disease, a swollen prostate….

Some conditions are obvious and easily resolved with herbs. Others are more serious and should be referred to appropriately qualified practitioners.

Start with simple things and work toward more involved issues as your knowledge and skills dictate. If you don’t know what’s going on, or if the problem isn’t responding to your efforts, call upon someone who does.

Doc

Don't use herbs or combine herbs with medications or use them during lactation or pregnancy without talking with your healthcare provider.

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