As of 2010, there were no standard certification or licensing requirements for herbalists. However, people interested in receiving training in herbology may take courses that, upon competition, grant certification in herbology.
Basic courses cover the history, identification, collection and preparation of herbs for medicinal use. Advanced coursework in herbology focuses on using herbs and botanicals in alternative health care. Materia medica courses focus on herbal classifications used in alternative health practices, including diuretic, astringent herbs, tonic, expectorate, antiseptic and nervine herbs.
The advantages of online herbology courses include lower educational costs, working from the convenience of your own home and working at your own pace.
Online herbology courses do not provide students with clinical opportunities and may also lack basic sciences. Online herbology courses are generally insufficient for people seeking professional membership in the American Herbalist Guild.
To become a professional member of the American Herbalist Guild, an herbalist's education must have included 400 hours in clinical training. Students receiving certification online or from schools not offering clinical training may arrange private mentorships.
American Herbalist Guild
PO Box 230741
Boston, MA 02123
857-350-3128
americanherbalistsguild.com