Newport herbalists are striving to reassure the public that herbal medicine is still safe, effective and available in Pembrokeshire, despite dramatic changes in legislation.

Changes in the law surrounding herbal medicine came in to force on May 1st, and some members of the public have voiced concerns about the affects on consumers’ choice in the herbal medicine available.

More than a quarter of British people use herbal remedies and there has been some confusion and alarm over the recent alleged ‘ban on herbs’.

The new EU Directive is set to dramatically change the way herbal medicine is used, as the government has recognised a need to regulate this field.

The department of health has introduced a system to register all clinically trained herbal practitioners in line with other health professionals.

Local herbalists say they are committed to ensuring people can still access herbs.

Medical herbalist Lara Bernays said: “I see this as a positive move. Herbal medicine is complex and there is nothing more important than health.

“Regulation, I hope, will result in people seeking professional advise ensuring herbal medicine is used in a safe and effective way’.

Rhona Edmonds, medical herbalist and owner of The Natural Healthcare Centre in Newport, said: “Our dispensary will still stock a full selection of herbs.

“As a response to the new laws we are now running a free drop in clinic manned by our resident medical herbalists on a Tuesday and Thursday offing professional advice and a full range of herbal remedies.”