Medical herbalists aim to treat
disease through the of use plant remedies. They believe that certain
plants have an affinity with particular organs or systems in the
body. They look for underlying physical problems in their clients
and identify which plant can offer the most healing potential.
As a herbalist you would begin a consultation by gathering detailed
information on your patient’s medical history including their
lifestyle, past health problems, current illness and diet. You may
also carry out a physical examination, before prescribing herbal
remedies and giving advice on diet, lifestyle. A variety of treatments
can be recommended, including tinctures, fluid extracts, capsules
and creams.
Herbal medicine (known as phytotherapy) can be used to treat a wide
range of acute and chronic conditions, such as skin, digestive,
heart, circulation and gynaecological disorders.
Entry
To practice as a medical herbalist you need
to complete a degree in Herbal Medicine or Phytotherapy. Trained
medical practitioners can study for a postgraduate diploma. Courses
should be approved by the National
Institute of Medical Herbalists (NIMH), the professional
body for herbal medicine in the UK
Courses can last between three and five years
and can be studied on a full time, part time or distance learning
basis. You will need to attend a combination of lectures, workshops
and practical placements. Approved courses normally include at least
500 hours of clinical training.
