Salim Khan: A Herbalist's Journey from Student to Master

Introduction

M. Salim Khan stands as a beacon of knowledge and expertise in the realm of natural healing. With a reputation that extends far beyond the borders of the United Kingdom, he is a distinguished authority in the world of Tibb herbal medicine and an esteemed figure in the Complementary & Alternative Medicine (CAM) community. This article delves deep into the fascinating journey of Salim Khan, tracing the evolution of his career from the days of a curious student to the pinnacle of mastery in the field of natural healing.

Salim Khan’s odyssey in natural healing is a remarkable tapestry of passion, dedication, and relentless pursuit of wisdom. Over the course of four decades, he has not only touched the lives of thousands of patients but has also imparted his profound knowledge to hundreds of students across the globe. The following paragraphs offer a glimpse into the pivotal stages of his journey.

Early Childhood & Education

Born in 1951 in the village of Momanpur, nestled in the Chachh Valley along the banks of the mighty Indus River, Salim Khan’s early life was intricately connected to the land. Chachh, positioned on the border of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab, derives its lush fertility from the generous percolation of water from the Indus River, making it a fertile haven.

For the first twelve years of his life, Salim Khan was raised on the family farm, a sanctuary of organic cultivation. The land bore the bounties of seasonal crops, with fields adorned by maize, barley, wheat, and sugarcane.

When winter arrived, the sugarcane was transformed into Gur (jaggery), infusing the air with sweet fragrances. The orchards thrived, offering a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables.

Intriguingly, the land yielded more than sustenance. Like most families in the region, opium found its place in the fields, not for leisure but for medicinal purposes, a reflection of age-old traditions interwoven with the soil.

Salim Khan’s quest for knowledge began in the heart of the village, attending the local village school. Later, his educational journey took him to the prestigious ‘Senior Burn Hall School’ in Abbottabad, setting the stage for the path that would lead him into the world of natural healing.

Studies in the Tibb

Salim Khan was introduced to Tibb in 1970 by Moulana Nisaar Ahmed. Later he studied with Sayyed Shabeer Hussain and Hakeem Nabi Khan.

These eminent individuals were each a figure in their own right, and left an indelible mark on Salim Khan’s early life and education. These were mentors who were renowned for their profound knowledge and dedication to the art of herbalism and played a pivotal role in shaping Salim Khan’s expertise and nurturing his passion for natural healing.

Introduction to the Science of Iridology

The year 1978 marked a turning point in Salim Khan’s life as whilst completing his clinical training under David Chapman for his diploma in herbal medicine, he was introduced to iridology. His passion drove him to study iridology and herbal medicine under the mentorship of Farida Sharan in Cambridge, England. The culmination of this journey resulted in the attainment of a Diploma in Iridology and a Master Herbalist Diploma from the ‘School of Iridology and Holistic Healing‘ in Cambridge in September 1996. Salim Khan’s commitment extended even further as he later served as a clinical tutor in the same school.

Building a Legacy in Herbalism

M. Salim Khan, bearing the titles of M.D. (M.A.) M.H. D.O. F.G.N.I., is much more than just a title holder. He stands as a beacon of health and vitality, embodying the essence of natural healing. As the founding director of the ‘Mohsin Wellbeing Centre’ and the principal of the ‘College of Medicine and Healing Arts’ – both in Leicester, UK – his contributions have extended well beyond his practice, leaving an indelible mark on the world of holistic medicine and herbalism.

These establishments were a groundbreaking venture that bridged the realms of oriental traditions, Unani Tibb medicine, and iridology, presenting a holistic and energetic paradigm that continues to impact the world of natural healing profoundly.

Moreover, Salim Khan’s contributions extend to the establishment of an organisation with a profound commitment to Tibb al Nabawi, or Prophetic Medicine. This noble undertaking emphasises the critical imperative of preserving and disseminating the profound wisdom and practices that find their roots in the teachings of the esteemed Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Over more than 45 years of successful clinical practice in the United Kingdom, Salim Khan has been the guiding light for thousands of individuals suffering from a myriad of ailments. His holistic approach to healing has brought about better health and enhanced vitality in the lives of countless individuals.

The Influence of Dr. Bernard Jensen

Dr. Bernard Jensen, the illustrious author of the book ‘American Iridology and Nutrition,’ played a pivotal role in shaping Salim Khan’s approach to iridology.

In addition to the above, Salim Khan also trained in herbal medicine and osteopathy with the General Council and Register of Consultant Medical Herbalists (now IRCH). He also studied iridology and nutrition with Dr. Bernard Jensen.

It was indeed the invaluable guidance and wisdom imparted by Dr. Bernard Jensen, widely acclaimed as the father of American Iridology, which served as a pivotal cornerstone in shaping the trajectory of Salim Khan’s remarkable journey in the field of natural healing. And It was under the mentorship of Dr. Jensen that Salim Khan was bestowed with a certificate of merit in May 1982.

Dr. Jensen’s profound influence extended far beyond the confines of mere education; it was a transformative force that ignited the passion and curiosity within Salim Khan’s heart and set him on a path to becoming a master herbalist and an iridologist of wide repute.

The legacy of Dr. Bernard Jensen lives on through the work and teachings of Salim Khan (amongst other students). It is through this mentorship that Salim Khan, in his own right, has become a source of inspiration and knowledge for countless individuals, illuminating the path to natural health and well-being. Dr. Bernard Jensen’s influence continues to ripple through the world of natural healing, carrying forward a tradition of wisdom and holistic healing that transcends generations.

Salim Khan’s Transformation into a Respected Herbalist

In the realm of natural healing, Salim Khan stands as a paragon of wisdom and dedication. His journey from being a student with a curious mind to a master herbalist and iridologist with a profound impact on natural health is nothing short of inspiring. As he continues to hold the position of the President of the Guild of Naturopathic Iridologists (Int.) and serves as a trustee of the World Unani Foundation, his legacy in herbalism continues to grow and flourish, making significant contributions to the world of natural health and well-being.

Achievements of Salim Khan – A Brief Summary

M. Salim Khan is a highly qualified and experienced professional in the field of holistic and alternative medicine, with a particular focus on Unani Tibb, Herbal Medicine, Nutrition, and Iridology. What follows is a summary of his education, qualifications, work experience, publications, events, and affiliations.

Education and Qualifications

Herbalist Salim Khan has a diverse educational background, with qualifications spanning Herbal Medicine, Nutrition, Iridology, Osteopathy, and Naturopathy. His journey includes obtaining various diplomas and certificates from reputable institutions in the UK.

Founding of Institutions

Since 1978, Salim Khan has been associated with the Mohsin Health Clinic in Leicester, UK, where he serves as a Medical Herbalist, Nutritionist, and Iridologist. He has also been the founding director of College of Medicine and Healing Arts, Leicester, UK.

Publications

He is the author of several publications, including “Islamic Medicine” (1986), “Islamic Medicine: An Introduction” (2023), and “The Golden Key to Discovering Yourself” (2018), as well as many health related articles.

Events, Talks, Presentations, and Workshops

Herbalist Salim Khan has been actively engaged in conferences, seminars, workshops, and courses related to Unani Tibb, health, and natural medicine in various countries, including India, Pakistan, Turkey, Spain, Morocco, the UK, and the USA.

Media Involvement

Salim Khan has also contributed to a BBC documentary as well as being interviewed on the Türkiye channel, Diyanet TV. He has been involved in many exhibitions and publications related to traditional medicine and holistic health. He has also been featured in the UK newspapers such as the Leicester Mercury and the Daily Mail.

Professional Associations

Salim Khan is associated with various professional bodies, including The Guild of Unani Tibb, Guild of Naturopathic Iridologists International, International Register of Consultant Herbalists, and the World Unani Foundation.

In summary, M. Salim Khan stands as a prominent figure in the field of holistic and alternative medicine, with extensive educational credentials and a long history of practice, education, and active participation in the promotion of natural and alternative healing modalities.