Become a Herbalist
To become a Member of the Institute you will need to study on a course that meets our standards, resulting in an honours degree level course in Herbal Medicine from an accredited institution, covering the following areas:
- Knowledge Sound knowledge of anatomy, physiology, pathology, botany, diagnostic procedures, physical examination, materia medica, posology, nutrition, diet, orthodox medicines and procedures, practice management, health and safety, medical legislation.
- Skills for communicating with patients and other professionals, history taking, health assessment, maintaining a clean and secure dispensary, herbal pharmacy, liaison with other practitioners.
- Understanding An understanding of the ethics of professional practice, issues of confidentiality, botanical therapeutics, the responsibility to maintain fitness to practice and the need for continuing professional and personal development. In addition to theoretical education, students undertake a minimum of 500 hours supervised clinical training.
Choosing to study herbal medicine can be the start of a life-changing journey.
People come to study herbal medicine from all walks of life. Some have experienced the benefits of herbal medicine for themselves and choose herbal medicine as a second career. You do not need any previous experience in healthcare.