The evolution of herbal medicine as an unorthodox branch of British medicine: The role of English legislation from antiquity to 1914

The divergence of British orthodox and herbal medicine may be popularly considered a modern phenomenon brought about by the advancement of science and the rejection of an older system of medicine rooted in tradition. On closer analysis, it becomes evident that the two disciplines bifurcated many centuries ago and although science did play a role in this separation, so too did a great many other factors including the development of an educated medical elite who protected their vested interests and the emergence of English legislation regulating the practice and prescription of medicine. This paper explores the historical literature and legal instruments that shaped the present status of British herbal medicine as an ‘unorthodox’ medical practice and discusses the individuals, events and social attitudes that contributed to this position.