Scotland's first paediatrician-led herbal medicine clinic has opened its doors in Fife

The new children's service is up and running at Health Food and More in Kirkcaldy and is being delivered by Scotland's first paediatric herbalist, NHS paediatrician Dr Beth Moorhouse.

It's open to families across Scotland by private appointment to help parents manage their children's health concerns and existing conditions and navigate the NHS.

Working in partnership with existing medical teams, Dr Moorhouse will prescribe herbal medicines and develop bespoke nutritional plans for her junior clients – providing an integrated service to support conventional medical care, as well as standalone treatments.

Having studied for three years with Heartwood Education to get her Herbal Medicine diploma, Dr Moorhouse said: "I know only too well how frustrating and frightening it can be when your child is unwell, and how reassuring it is to have someone offer a working diagnosis and treatment plan."

Dr Moorhouse graduated with distinction and has since become a Member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists alongside her professional registration with the General Medical Council.

She said: "Drawing on my 14 years as a paediatric doctor, I have plenty of experience in managing acute and chronic health problems in children.

"Herbal medicines can be effective in managing many of the problems we see in childhood, such as digestive issues, lowered immunity and even stress and anxiety.

"I will continue to work within an NHS hospital setting, as well as providing my herbal clinic. I see a vital role for both services going forward in paediatric medicine."

Health Food and More owner Keren Brynes Maclean, who is a senior practising herbalist, has played an active role in training student herbalists.

She said: "I'm very pleased to have Dr Moorhouse join the practice here at Health Food and More.

"As one of Scotland's oldest practices, we have a reputation for delivering excellent clinical care and we look forward to further bridging the divide between mainstream and herbal medicine."

To book an appointment, phone 01592 566446 or find out more here.