About David

My name is David Yates and I have been a practicing pharmacist since 1987 and a lover of plants and herbs my whole life.

While medications can help reduce the symptoms of many modern day diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular conditions, they often can cause unpleasant and worrisome side effects and can have serious drug interactions.  

Over the years I have been asked many questions about the safe and effective use of medications to which I have always enjoyed being a resource. Many of the same patients I have helped have also shown an interest in using herbs for nutritional support but were afraid of compatibility issues with medications.

David in his garden surrounded by green plants.
David in his herb garden standing next to a cannabis plant that accidently sprung up this spring from last year's planting
Cardinal Flower plant in David's garden
A native Virginia plant from David's garden, the Cardinal Flower, which attracts the Ruby-throated hummingbird

I can offer guidance here to help people avoid any serious drug-herb interactions. I am fascinated how herbs can help bring balance back to one's life as I have used them for high blood pressure and varicose veins. Along with eating wholesome foods, and getting the right amount of sleep and exercise, taking  herbs have made a positive difference in my life and in those around me such as my wife and pharmacy patients.

If you have questions about the use of your medications (adverse effects and drug interactions, for example), whether it is safe to use herbs with medicines, or would like a herbal recommendation to help support chronic medical conditions I am available to help.

David's Background

Registered Pharmacist in the State of Virginia since 1987
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Masters Degree in Molecular Biology and Genetics from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia 2002
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Whole Living Class: A comprehensive course on herbalism and gardening at Forest Green Farm, Louisa, Virginia 2022
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Board Certified Ambulatory Care Pharmacist* from 2015 to 2022.
*(An ambulatory pharmacist has special knowledge and clinical training to help patients manage their medications)
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Certificates in pain management and the use of cannabis through American Society of Health System Pharmacists, and Therapeutic Research Council, respectively
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Consultant for women using Bioidentical Hormonal Replacement Therapy (BHRT)* and providing their physicians with personalized BHRT compound recommendations.  
* (BHRT consists of using progesterone, estradiol, and testosterone in compounded creams and troches to alleviate hormonal related symptoms such as night sweats, hot flashes and insomnia)

Passion Flower plant in David's garden
Another medicinal plant from David's garden, the Passionflower, which can be used to improve people's sleep
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