Question:
I read this long informative message, and realized that *this* is what I (also) expect .... unfortunately, a lot of drs, allopathic and otherwise, are in it onlyfor the $$$$$$$$$$$$$$. I also have been self-treating, regardless of what kind of dr I saw. Unfortunately, these are just bandaids, which I can at least live with. I'd sure as heckwould like to know what I did or what I came in contact with to deserve this!!!!! (let's hearthe applause from the surrounding crowd HERE). I live in the Denver area; do you know anyone who HONEST LY practices alternative here?? I have visited a few and am *not* impressed...would reallyappreciate your input, seeing as how, if I did not misunderstand you, you're 'in the practice.'

Answer: I understand your frustration, and empathize. I am an herbalist, andthroughout the past six years of my schooling & practice, I haveencountered people supposedly "in the practice" whom I have consideredboth unscrupulous & dangerous. Finding a qualified, good alternativepractitioner, unfortunately, can be as frustrating as finding aqualified, good allopathic doctor.

I do not put people down for 'self-treating', however, I do encourage,very strongly, that if this is the route you choose to take for now,educate yourself as much as possible. There are many herbs with a lowtherapeutic margin, meaning that they have a high level of toxicity, andcan be easily misused, and easily cause bodily damage. If you ever havequestions about these matters, please post or e-mail me privately, and Iwill do all I can to help.

I do not live or practice in Denver, so I cannot make a personalrecommendation. I have many listings for practitioners in denver, byway of my holistic directory, but anyone can list in this directory.You can try the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, who hasa membership of naturopathic physicians who are licensed &license-eligible, and provide referrals to NDs nationwide. Theiraddress is AANP, 2366 Eastlake ave., E., #322, Seattle, WA, 98102

The Rocky Mountain Center for Botanical Studies may be able to help youwith referrals. Their phone # is (303) 442-6861; Address: PO Box 19254,Boulder, CO, 80308-2254.

I do apologize for not being able to help you more. I'll do a littleresearch, and see if I can come up with anything for you,and please, feel free to e-mail me privately anytime,