When choosing courses in herbalism, you should first have a clear understanding of why you want to learn about herbs as well as which branch of herbalism interests you. With this information, you will be better prepared to select a good source of herbalism training. Other things to think about are whether you prefer to enroll in a traditional school, a school that offers short residential courses in herbalism, or a distance education program. Ask professional herbalists as well as other alternative health care practitioners for course and school recommendations. Once you’ve narrowed down a list of programs, be sure to compare the course offerings, financial requirements, and reputation of each school before submitting your application.
Many herbalism schools offer different types of courses in herbalism in response to the different reasons why a person might want to study herbs and their uses. Some people are simply interested in a basic introduction to herbs: how to grow them and use them in cooking and the basic medicinal properties of common plants. Others have a deeper interest in herbalism and either want to train as professional herbalists or are interested in combining an understanding of herbal medicine with their training in another area of health care. If you fall into the second category, look for courses in herbalism that are designed for health care professionals or for those who eventually want to practice herbalism as a career. If you simply have a passing interest in herbs or aren’t sure whether a career in herbalism is for you, look for an introductory course.
Another consideration is the type of herbalism that you want to learn about or practice. For example, you may want to take courses in herbalism taught from a traditional Chinese medicine perspective or an ayurvedic medicine perspective. If you are unfamiliar with different schools of herbal studies, do some research online or in the library to learn about your options or find a school that offers courses in several different traditions.
Selecting a course delivery method that is compatible with your learning style can really make a difference in your ability to successfully complete and get the most out of your coursework. In some cases, you may be restricted to learning about herbalism online or through another form of distance learning because there are no in-person courses in herbalism taught in your area. In many large cities, however, there are opportunities to receive classroom-based training through alternative medicine centers, naturopathy colleges, and dedicated herbalism schools. Some master herbalists also offer apprenticeships, which can be a good way to get some hands-on experience in professional herbalism while you learn. For more information about schools, contact professional associations for herbalists in your area and ask if the association can recommend herbalism training courses or schools to you.