How to be a Medicinal Herbalist

Many people often ask me what the "Requirements" are for being a Medicinal Herbalist. That's a really good question because there are multiple ways to become one.

• Self-Taught → Self or Family Herbalist
• Apprentice under a Certified Herbalist
• Take Classes → Clinical Herbalist Certification
• Become a Naturopathic Doctor

Self teaching is a much more common practice, especially now-a-days with the internet and a mass amount of information shared through social media. There are enough books written and enough articles published where if one were to take enough notes they may find themselves fairly knowledgeable on the subject of Medicinal Herbalism and other forms of Natural Healing. This is great for personal use, however, not so much if you ever intended to help others by opening a business or becoming a licensed herbalist.

If you are lucky enough to find a skilled and certified Medicinal Herbalist that will allow you to apprentice under them then this is the opportunity of a lifetime. The knowledge of experience is always something you should appreciate and listen to carefully. Some Certified Herbalists may even be able to certify you as well.

Taking classes is now easier than ever since online classrooms are now so prominent and many Universities and Colleges are accessing this once untapped resource, there are plenty of courses that can be taken virtually, however, you would still need clinical experience in order to be Certified to practice from such groups as the AHG (American Herbalists Guild) or the HSA (The Herb Society of America). Some schools can offer clinical studies if you ask around.

Becoming a Naturopathic Doctor or  ND means going through medical school and specializing in alternative medicine. This can be anything from nutrition, to herbs, to acupuncture. Many areas have special certifications or don't recognize NDs as real doctors. So it's important if going on this route that you look at your state's requirements and see what is required to practice.

Becoming an Herbalist can be difficult especially if you intend to practice as in many states in the U.S. either have no laws and regulations, or have too many to allow for practice of Medicinal Herbalism. It is always important that you look into your states laws and regulations. There are some classes and courses that can allow you to sell herbs however the most important thing to remember is that as a Medicinal Herbalist by law you are not a doctor (Unless you're an ND) therefore you cannot diagnose anyone, you can only give suggestions for treatments of pre-known illnesses.

~Lindsey Shemwell (The Budding Botanist)