How to Become an Herbalist

How to Become an Herbalist

A herbalist uses plants to promote health and healing. Many herbalists also practice other disciplines, such as traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture, and naturopathy. The vast majority of herbalists are self-employed and spend a significant amount of time looking for new clients. Many herbalists find it very rewarding to help other people. Read this article to learn more about how to become an herbalist.

Step 1: Get a Bachelor’s Degree

The first step to becoming a herbalist is getting a Bachelor’s degree. You should consider majoring in biology, botany, or a related science. In general, you will need to get a Bachelor’s degree before you can apply to graduate and professional schools.

Step 2: Get Trained

The second step is getting trained. Prospective herbalists can select from a number of different training programs. For example, some schools offer self-study courses, non-degree programs, and workshops in the subject of herbology. If you want to advise clients, it is essential that you are careful. Herbalists cannot prescribe treatment or diagnose conditions when acting in a role that is advisory.

Step 3: Get Licensed

You need to be licensed in a healthcare field to practice as a herbalist. State licensing requirements for practicing traditional Chinese medicine or naturopathy differ. However, in general, you need to get a passing score on a state or national exam. All osteopathic and allopathic physicians in the United States need to pass the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination or the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination. Some states do not consider Chinese herbology as a part of traditional Chinese medicine.

Step 4: Get Certified

Voluntary certification might be available for herbalists who specialize in various forms of herbal medicine. In certain cases, earning a voluntary certification can make it possible to get new job opportunities. The Oriental Medicine and the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine offer the Diplomate of Chinese Herbology and the Diplomate of Oriental Medicine. These designations are offered to candidates who manage to pass an exam and complete the education requirements.

The American Herbalists Guild provides the designation of Registered Herbalist to its members. Professional-level AHG membership is provided to herbalists who offer three case studies and fulfill the requirements, which includes four years of clinical experience and educational experience.

Herbalists who want to prescribe herbs will need to complete a graduate program in traditional Chinese medicine, allopathic, and naturopathic. They also need to meet requirements for state licensing, depending on their place of residence. Experienced herbalists generally earn about $52.50 an hour. For more information about how to become an herbalist, don’t hesitate to contact us.