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About This Course

Study Master Herbalist Online Course; Become A Master Herbalist and Start Your Own Herbalist Business

Our Master Herbalist Online Course provides you with a framework that will shape all of your future interactions with herbs, ensuring that you can study each herb thoroughly, with a thorough understanding of its bioactive components, therapeutic actions, and possible uses, and then use it safely and effectively. You'll look into the history of herbal remedies and the origins of this wonderful therapeutic technique before moving on to plant botany and plant chemistry.

With this online course, you'll be ready to utilize herbs properly, as you'll learn about topics like contraindications and drug-herb interactions. You'll acquire experience when dealing with herbs and learn how to keep safety in mind at all times. With the foundations of your knowledge in place, you'll move on to learning about the herbs you'll be employing, as you study how to use different plants to heal illnesses of the body's six systems. There will be lots of tiny herb profiles for you to examine, and they will take you through the topics you should cover while understanding about a new plant.

Through these Master Herbalist Online Courses, you’ll explore two more herbal healing modalities – traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda.

What you will learn with our Master Herbalist Online Course

  • A History of Herbal Medicine
  • Botany –Understanding Plants
  • Plant Chemistry
  • Contraindications and Cautions
  • Materia Medica
  • Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine
  • Ayurvedic Medicine
  • Formulating Herbs
  • How to Make Herbal
  • Essential Oils
  • Bach Remedies and Flower Essences
  • Growing and Foraging Herbs
  • Setting Up in Business as a Herbalist 

Who would benefit from the Master Herbalist Online Course

Taking students from the basics onwards, this course is accessible to anyone who would like to learn more about aiding the healing process with a natural alternative to medicines and invasive sciences. Students of Naturopath, Homeopathy, and Chinese Nutritional Therapy in particular will enjoy the contents of the course, and will be able to put the knowledge learned to use in an existing business or to start a new business.

Master Herbalist Course - Requirements

The Master Herbalist Certification is delivered 100 percent online.

To successfully complete this course, a student must:

  • Have access to the internet and the necessary technical skills to navigate the online learning resources
  • Have access to any mobile device with internet connectivity (laptop, desktop, tablet)
  • Be a self-directed learner
  • Possess sound language and literacy skills

Master Herbalist Online Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction

Welcome to Master Herbalist's first module. This session will look at how herbs and medicine have intertwined throughout history and how they are utilized now.

Definition of Holistic and Alternative Medicine

Holistic medicine is a type of medicine that focuses on a person's full being, including their emotions, spirit, mind, and body, in order to promote wellbeing and optimal health. The holistic medical philosophy is based on the belief that each person can achieve an optimal degree of health in all facets of life.

What is Herbal Medicine?

Phytomedicine and herbalism are two terms used to describe herbal medicine. It is concerned with pharmacognosy. Plants and their extracts are used in herbal therapy to heal ailments.

Herbs are employed in alternative medicine production because of their therapeutic effects, flavor, or fragrance. Herbal medications are supplied as extracts, teas, capsules, dried or fresh plants, and pills and are used as dietary supplements.

Herbal Medicine in Historical Context

Herbs have long been employed in traditional medicine. The Ebers papyrus holds a collection of medical literature dating from 1550 BCE.

It includes some of the oldest examples of medical practice. This scroll contains 700 folk remedies and magical formulas for treating various ailments. Toenail pain, crocodile bites, and other diseases are among the ailments listed. It also explains how to get rid of scorpions, rodents, flies, and other pests from your home.

What is Pharmacology?

The study of living organisms' reactions to chemicals and medications, including manmade and natural compounds that affect a biological system, is known as pharmacology. Pharmacology also includes drug validation and medication handling.

It focuses on the research and design of novel pharmaceuticals that are intended to treat and cure diseases. Pharmacology is divided into numerous sections, one of which is pharmacodynamics, which investigates the physiological and chemical properties of medications. It also illustrates how molecular target interactions, such as enzyme systems or receptor proteins, affect drug behavior.

Roles of an Herbalist

Herbalists employ medical knowledge and plant understanding to cure a variety of allergies, ailments, and physical disorders by leveraging the body's self-healing power. Some herbal practitioners are referred to as medical herbalists, despite the fact that herbalists are not medical doctors.

Bath salts, oils, teas, lotions, pills, and ointments are common herbal therapeutic products. An herbalist's job description includes the following duties:

  • Making physical assessments and examinations
  • Producing and growing herbal remedies
  • Improving the body’s self-healing capacity through the use of small herbal remedies

To ensure proper client care, professional herbalists should possess a set of personal attributes. Herbalists should exemplify and cultivate the following characteristics:

  • Confidence in themselves and the efficacy of their herbs
  • Competence in choosing the right remedies
  • Willingness to listen to patients

Module 2: The Science of Herbs

We'll go through the science of herbs and what makes them unique in this section of the course. This will also include a brief anatomy and plant health overview.

Defining Herbs

Plants are a staple in our diet. They have their own distinct systems, and each component might have its own set of characteristics.

It can be difficult to put distinct plant components into context. Most fruits, for example, are the flowering sections of plants, whereas vegetables include elements like leaves and roots.

Herbs are difficult to define, and they're frequently confused with spices. Spices are usually non-leafy components of the plant, such as seeds and roots, whereas herbs are leafy sections of the plant.

Roots

Roots behave as straws, absorbing water and minerals from the earth. Small hairs on the roots promote surface exposure and aid in efficient absorption. Roots also act as a physical anchor for plants in the earth. In this fashion, they resemble feet.

Stem

Because it transmits food and water from one section of the plant to another, the stem is one of the most important parts. It also preserves food for times when food is scarce, such as in the autumn and winter when there aren't enough leaves to cook with. The stem is in charge of preparing new tissues like leaves. Unlike complicated plants and trees, herb stems are non-woody and soft. As a result, it's also known as a herbaceous stem.

Leaves

Herbs use leaves as miniature food factories. They convert water and carbon dioxide into food using light energy. Photosynthesis is the process of producing food in leaves. Herb leaves resemble grasses in appearance. Because of their narrow and long look, they are sometimes referred to as blades rather than leaves.

Flowers

Flowers are the plant's reproductive organs. They carry pollen and ovules, which fertilize to produce a seed that will grow into a new plant one day. Flowers can have a great medical value in some cases. Other flowers, such as lavender, are known for their pleasant scent.

Phytochemistry

Phytochemistry is a discipline of biology concerned with the chemicals and aromatic compounds found in plants. It also refers to the investigation of chemical interactions that occur within a plant.

Photosynthesis and respiration are the two most significant chemical reactions in plants. Plants also use a variety of compounds to fight themselves against diseases.

Photosynthesis is the conversion of water from the roots and carbon dioxide gas from the atmosphere into glucose and oxygen molecules. Life on Earth is a result of this chemical reaction.

Defense

To fight themselves against diseases, plants use chemicals and secondary metabolites. Once a pathogen has penetrated the plant's physical defenses, several poisons and enzymes make it difficult for it to thrive.

When a pathogen is recognized, antimicrobial enzymes are triggered and employed to efficiently kill the infection or stop it from growing. Salicylic acid is an essential component of plant defense. It is triggered by the pathogen attack and launches a chemical attack against it.

Module 3: Conditions Treated

Herbal therapy has shown promise in the treatment of a variety of ailments. In this lesson, we'll look at some of the ways herbal medicine can help with digestive health, heart and cardiac function, and respiratory health.

Digestive Health

Several plants are thought to help with digestion and various related health issues.

  • Ginger has a soothing and warming effect. It also has antibacterial and anti-nausea properties.
  • Turmeric may ease bloating, strengthen your liver, and function as a potent anti-inflammatory herb, in addition to assisting digestion. It can also be used as an antibacterial herb to help with digestion.
  • Fennel is a plant that can help with digestion by stimulating the liver, increasing appetite, and reducing bloating. It helps with colic and milk production.

Respiratory Health

Several herbal medicines may protect the respiratory system from bacteria, viruses, smoke, and other irritants. The following herbs may help to improve respiratory health:

  • Peppermint is well-known for having antihistamine properties. It may assist to enhance respiratory health and avoid the inflammation of the respiratory tract caused by allergies or foreign bodies.
  • Osha root is a powerful plant that has been used to treat respiratory infections for ages. The root of the plant can help with colds, coughs, and other lung illnesses. It may improve blood flow to the lungs and relieve congestion.

Heart and Cardiac Function

Herbs may also boost cardiac function and promote a healthy heart. These are some of the herbs that may help you maintain a healthy heart:

  • Cinnamon has been shown to lower cholesterol levels. It may also lower blood sugar and prevent people from diabetes, which can lead to strokes and heart attacks.
  • Cardamom is a spice that has been shown to lower blood pressure.
  • Garlic is thought to help reduce the chance of blood clots. Garlic has a number of health benefits. Apart from improving digestion, garlic has been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol levels by 10%.

Immune Function

Herbal medicines are said to boost the immune system. Herbs that can help improve your immune system include:

  • Garlic boosts white blood cell formation by having antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antibiotic effects.
  • Giloy is thought to aid in toxin elimination and blood purification. Its antioxidant capabilities also aid in immunity and bacteria combating.
  • Antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids abound in chia seeds. They're thought to help manage inflammation and promote immunity.

Emotional and Mental Health

Herbal medicines can help with more than just physical ailments. They may also aid in the improvement of emotional and mental well-being.

  • Anxiety and insomnia sufferers can find comfort with lemon balm. Combining lemon balm with other relaxing herbs has been shown to improve mental wellness in research.
  • Rosemary contains antioxidants and may have antidepressant properties, according to studies. It may help reduce agitation and improve cognitive performance in Alzheimer's patients. It is thought to improve cognitive performance, reduce stress, and improve focus.

Digestive Health

Herbs can also be used to treat a variety of problems that influence digestive health and how the body reacts to food, waste, and minerals.

  • Herbs such as ginger, senna, peppermint tea, marshmallow root, licorice root, chamomile, parsley, and others may be used to treat chronic constipation.
  • Herbs such as ginger, turmeric, blackberry leaves, red raspberry leaves, and others may be used to treat diarrhea.
  • Gastroenteritis is a digestive health issue that may be treated with herbs such as lemon balm, slippery elm, chamomile, and others.

Module 4: Modes of Administration

The various modalities of administration for herbal products will be discussed in this unit. Depending on a client's specific needs, each method has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Luk Pra Kob

Although many people in the West are unfamiliar with Thai herbal compress massage, also known as Luk Pra Kob, it is quite popular in Asia. One of Thailand's most fascinating traditional medicines is Luk Pra Kob. It has been used for healing, relaxation, and pain reduction for thousands of years.

The Thai herbal compress is made up of herbs that have a variety of medicinal characteristics and are used to relieve pain. The herbs employed in a blend are determined by the disease being treated. The compress is traditionally made with a base of common herbs such as plai, ginger, lemongrass, and turmeric. The Thai herbal compress stimulates blood circulation and acupressure points, which are thought to aid in the treatment of a variety of diseases. It's also utilized for skin irritation, painful muscles, and pain alleviation in general.

Hot Infusions

Many herbal practices include making hot infusions. Hot herbal infusions (also known as teas) aid in the extraction of essential vitamins, fragrant oils, and enzymes from nutrient-dense plants including sweet basil, raspberry leaves, ginger root, and others. Drinking nutritious hot infusions on a daily basis is thought to be a fantastic approach to progressively improve your general health. To produce a hot infusion, combine herbs and water and simmer for 10–20 minutes, straining away any solids before drinking.

Cold Infusions

Plant material is steeped in room-temperature water for a period of time to make a cold infusion. This approach is utilized for fragile herbs that lose their therapeutic characteristics when placed in boiling water, such as rosebuds or peppermint leaves. Making cold infusions is a more time-consuming technique, and it must be consumed straight away due to the risk of bacterial growth due to the lack of boiling. Place herbs in a container and cover with water to make a cold infusion. Allow for many hours or overnight soaking. Remove any particles with a strainer placed over a bowl.

Decoctions

Decoctions, or simmering teas, are commonly employed in herbal medicine to extract fluids from tough plant parts like roots, barks, seeds, and dried fruits. Herbs can also be infused in a decoction that has been produced later. Because of the prolonged boiling time, decoctions are more concentrated and have a stronger flavor than hot infusions. Gargle with them for sore throats, fevers, and other ailments. To produce a herbal decoction, boil chopped hard herbs in water for at least 45 minutes. After that, add the soft leafy herbs and continue to boil for another 10-15 minutes. Finally, drain it and keep it in a clean glass jar once it has cooled.

Making Herbal Syrups

Herbal syrups are a decoction-like mixture of herbs with sugar, glycerin, or honey that has been boiled together in water. It's an excellent approach to make the bitter herbs more tolerable to toddlers and those with sensitive palates. To produce a syrup to your satisfaction, you can add any number of herbs. These herbal syrups can be used to improve the flavor of other foods or beverages. They're usually made up of a variety of herbs, each with its own set of benefits. The 1:1 ratio of tea to honey keeps the syrup fresher for longer.

Making Herbal Capsules

Making herbal capsules is a convenient way to carry herbs with you. The procedure is straightforward, and it allows you to create bespoke herbal formulae that are matched to your specific needs. You can also combine various herbs in one capsule to make them more effective than bulk herbs. Herbal capsules are popular with people who want to avoid the synthetic components included in many other capsules. To create herbal capsules, you'll need a few different pieces of equipment. An electric grinder, a capsule machine, empty capsules, and a storage jar are all required.

Module 5: Client Safety

In this module, we'll talk about how to keep clients safe when utilizing herbs as a health therapy and how to make sure they're aware of any potential concerns. This will involve an examination of a potential client's medical history, optimal safety measures, and a case study of a regularly used herb that can interact with certain drugs.

Limitations of Herbs

Herbalists may recommend herbs as a natural treatment for a variety of ailments and uses, such as sleep aids, pain relief, stress management, illness prevention, and more. Herbal supplements are a popular and natural way to cure or prevent problems, but they have certain restrictions.

Herbs can interact negatively with other medications or induce allergic responses in patients. They aren't subject to the same level of FDA scrutiny as other medical therapies, putting greater burden on individuals.

Safety Best Practices

Several safety factors must be taken into account when using herbs as health remedies. To begin with, not every situation necessitates the usage of herbs. If a customer is taking prescription medication, be sure the herbs don't interact negatively with it. If your client is about to have surgery, is pregnant, or is planning to breastfeed, some herbs may need to be avoided. Herbs should also be avoided if you have a serious health problem like kidney or liver illness.

If a customer exhibits adverse symptoms, they should discontinue use and seek medical advice. Before prescribing herbs, you should have a basic awareness of the client's needs as well as the general risk level of employing alternative or holistic medicine versus traditional interventions.

Comprehensive Medical History

The more information you have about your customer, the better you'll be able to recommend herbs that are both safe and beneficial for their needs. You'll also want to know about specific aspects of their lifestyle. Some herbs, for example, can make you more sensitive to sunlight or produce weariness, which can make it difficult to maintain an active daily routine.

Case Study: St. John’s Wort

St. John's wort is a popular herb. This herb has been used for a variety of medical purposes since the time of the ancient Greeks, and it has been documented in use since then. Depression, ADHD symptoms, menopausal symptoms, and a range of skin diseases are all treated with St. John's wort. Klamath weed, goatweed, and hypericum are some of the common names for it. That does not, however, make it innocuous.

Although well-known and widely used, St. John's wort can interact negatively with a wide range of drugs. These encounters can be life-threatening at times. As a result, while the herb is beneficial in many instances, it is not necessarily safe for persons who are taking other medications or are undergoing medical treatment.

Module 6: Essential Oils

In this section, we'll look at how essential oils are used with various herbs. We'll go through the differences between herbalism and aromatherapy as well. Essential oils are related to a number of key concepts that should be grasped in respect to each field.

Herbs and Essential Oils

A plant's flavor and aroma are produced by essential oils found in its leaves, flowers, bark, roots, and seeds. Essential oils are complex mixtures of aromatic chemicals that impart flavor to each herb. They're found in the plant's trichomes, which are special cells.

Essential oils can be made from practically any herb, but the amount of oil generated by each species determines whether it is financially viable. Essential oils are commonly used in aromatherapy, perfumery, and cosmetics, but they can also be utilized medicinally and in cooking.

Therapeutic herbs are used to treat a variety of respiratory issues. Aromatherapy can be a very effective treatment because it works directly on the respiratory system. It's also worth noting that essential oils are known to have antibacterial properties.

Differences Between Herbalism and Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils to cure the body, mind, and spirit. Essential oils are bio compounds-rich natural oils collected from plants. The oil of each plant has a distinct character and medicinal effect. They're all-natural therapies that can help you unwind, feel better, and hydrate your body. Inhaling essential oils or absorbing them through the skin are the two ways essential oils enter the body.

Aromatherapy is a type of herbal medicine that operates on the same concept as herbal medicine: harnessing the energy or vital life forces found in nature. Plant-based medicines are the oldest type of medicine, having been used in nearly every culture on the globe.

In herbology, a physical part of a plant is used to treat ailments, but in aromatherapy, just the extracted oil of the plant is used. The type of substance used (herb or oil), as well as the effect of relative concentrations, distinguishes the two schools of natural therapy. Essential oils have a concentration that is 75–100 times higher than that of dried plants.

Dilution

Consider a store-bought frozen fruit juice concentrate to get an understanding of what dilution implies. This concentration is too strong to consume or drink straight from the container, but it can be made drinkable by diluting it with a specific amount of water.

Dispersion

While adding water dilutes the frozen juice concentrate, it does not spread it until the mixture is well swirled. Dispersal of essential oils is another important factor to consider when it comes to properly using essential oils.

Dose

Dose demands greater specificity than we usually see in essential oil recipes. The dose takes into account the treatment's amount and duration, as well as any contraindications. Take a look at the directions on a bottle of medicine in your medicine cabinet. It will inform you how to measure a single dose, how to follow the dosing plan, and whether or not there are any contraindications.

Diversifying

One of the simplest and safest ways to introduce essential oils into your herbal practice is to combine them with infused herbal oils. A topical pain blend made with St. John's wort, calendula, and arnica flowers, as well as essential oils like lavender, rosemary, and helichrysum, for example, would be fantastic.

Module 7: Bach Flower Remedies

The Bach flower remedies will be covered in this section of the course. Flower essences and how they can be used to treat emotional wellness are the emphasis of this unique system.

Dr. Edward Bach

Dr. Edward Bach was born in Moseley, near Birmingham, England, on September 24, 1886. For nearly 20 years, Dr. Bach worked as a Harley Street consultant and bacteriologist. After studying medicine at the University College Hospital in Cambridge and working at the National Temperance Hospital, he earned a Diploma in Public Health.

Dr. Bach entered the area of homeopathy in 1919 after performing research in immunology at the Royal London Homeopathic Hospital's laboratory. Although Bach was successful in his work utilizing mainstream medicine, he preferred to study alternative remedies.

Design of Bach Flower Remedies

Bach flower remedies are flower-based medicines prepared from wildflowers that have been preserved in a solvent. Because they seek to gently restore equilibrium in the body and mind, these therapies are considered a more natural and safe approach of healing.

Bach flower treatments help to restore the mind and body by removing negative emotions from the individual. Negative emotions like anxiety and indecision can throw the body's natural balance off. Bach flower treatments help to alleviate bad emotions and restore balance in the user's life.

Vibrational Energy

The energy in a vibrating system that is otherwise at rest is referred to as vibrational energy. Flowers have a significant relationship with vibrational energy, according to Bach's studies, because flowers vibrate at distinct frequencies that can be linked to vibrations of specific emotions.

The frequency with which the human body fluctuates in response to the emotions we are experiencing is referred to as vibrational energy. As a result, when we feel a certain emotion, our body's vibrational frequency changes.

Bioelectric fields are detectable in flowers. These fields are released in water and have a potency that can have beneficial impacts on our cells once we consume it.

Rescue Remedy

The majority of floral essences are made out of just one variety of flower. Rescue Treatment is a unique and efficient remedy that is made up of a mix of five wildflowers. Rescue Remedy is claimed to offer moderate comfort from the strains of ordinary living. Anxiety, metabolic disorders, cardiac ailments, and other health problems are all linked to stress. Rescue Remedy may aid in the reduction of anxiety, the promotion of excellent quality sleep, and the relief of pain.

Module 8: Growing and Cultivating Herbs

We'll learn about the best techniques for growing herbs in this course, as well as the advantages of cultivating rather than buying herbs. Then we'll go through some of the climate concerns that must be taken into account while working with herbs.

Best Practices in Growing Herbs

Herbs can be cultivated in pots outside, on a windowsill, or directly in the ground. The specific requirements of each plant will differ depending on its kind.

  • In a semi-sun setting, soft-leaved herbs like basil, coriander, chamomile, parsley, and fennel will thrive.
  • Lavender, rosemary, thyme, and yarrow, for example, are woody-stemmed herbs that demand more sun.
  • For fresh leaves throughout the summer, sow annual herbs like basil and coriander seeds every couple of weeks. Allow annuals to develop seed so that new plants can be grown in the spring.

Growing Herbs

Some herbalists choose to grow their own herbs rather than purchasing them from a vendor. All you need are seeds, a few pots, some dirt, and some sun or light to grow herbs. You may find all of these items at your local hardware or gardening store. When you produce your own herbs, you have more control over harvesting time and freshness, and there is no damage from transportation or storage. You can plant whatever you like and just use what you need. Use what you have, and more will grow back the next time you need it.

Climate Considerations

The majority of herbs need 6 hours of sunshine per day to thrive. Mint, coriander, parsley, and lemon balm are some of the herbs that can thrive in gloomy areas with little sun. To thrive, all plants need enough warmth and light. Otherwise, they would become thin and spindly, produce smaller leaves, and have a weaker perfume. Herbs also require a right balance of a humid environment and sufficient air flow. Containers should be crowded together to create a humid atmosphere; however, the closer the containers are together, the less air will be able to circulate effectively through the plants.

Indoor Herb Gardens

Indoor herb garden kits are particularly useful since they include everything you need to get started growing herbs from the ground up. This is especially useful for beginner herbalists or those moving to producing their own herbs. The majority of these indoor gardens have innovative features such as automated watering and grow lights, which provide essential lighting as well as a tracking system for the next fertilizing or watering phase.

Air Drying Herbs

Air drying herbs is one of the simplest ways to dry them at home. It takes a little longer, but the flavor is purer and cleaner than with other procedures. Herbs can be air-dried in bundles, which takes longer, or stretched out on racks, which takes up more space. The risk of them decomposing or molding before they are completely dry is reduced by drying them in bundles.

Set up a clothesline that's sturdy enough to withstand the weight of the bundles and long enough to keep them apart to air dry in a safe spot away from direct sunshine.

Client Education

It's also crucial that you inform your clients about these dangers so that they can make informed decisions about herbs and herbal products. A well-intentioned person could easily purchase shady things by looking for the wrong item and blindly trusting the label.

Worse, they may not be aware of the dangers of combining herbal medications with conventional therapy. Cat's claw, for example, can be used as an anti-inflammatory herbal remedy for illnesses like arthritis. It can, however, raise the chances of transplant rejection.

Module 9: Equipment and Supplies

The equipment and supplies you'll need to run your own herbalism business are covered in this section of the course. If you're new to herbalism and are just getting started with your own herbalist business, the initial setup can be frightening.

Herbs

To start your business selling herbal products and services, you'll need herbs. However, we recognize that you may be working with a restricted budget to launch a new business. Only a few essential plants are required, which can be purchased from local herb shops or verified online sites.

Solvents

Various solvents will make herbal preparations such as syrups, infused oils, and tinctures easier to make. Carrier oils are among the most used solvents. Almond oil, coconut oil, castor oil, and olive oil are examples of natural oils. They're particularly useful for preparing salves and infusing oils into other medicines. If you want to prepare herbal tinctures professionally, using multiple alcohols with varied alcohol percentages is a good idea.

Waxes and Butters

You'll need several types of butter and waxes to make body lotions, salves, and organic body butter. Beeswax and soy wax are two popular wax options. Consider candelilla or carnauba wax as well if you're looking for vegan alternatives. Cocoa butter, shea butter, kokum butter, and avocado butter can also be used to manufacture numerous body butters and ointments.

Cheesecloth

Cheesecloth is a useful tool for herbalists as well as those working in the dairy sector. During the bargain season, most professional herbalists stock up on cheesecloth, which serves as an effective filter for their herbal preparations.

Measuring Utensils

Cooking utensils are required for your herbal recipes, just as they are for all other kitchen recipes. When preparing lotions and body butters, they will easily combine all of the basic elements. A healthy mix of wooden and stainless-steel measuring spoons is also recommended. When working with recipes that need heating and melting your herbs, stainless steel spoons will come in helpful, while wooden spoons will perform well when a delicate touch is required.

Office Supplies

As a herbalist, you'll need to write down your thoughts, lessons learned, mistakes made in prior experiments, and product formulations on a regular basis. As a result, keeping track of your records requires a notepad and some basic equipment. You could even buy a binder with page dividers and blank paper to keep all of your handouts and notes in one location. You should also get some pens, forms, and colored pencils to scribble down notes.

Packaging Materials

Jars of many shapes and sizes are not only necessary, but also attractive additions to your herbal preparations. You may store your herbs, spices, and teas in mason jars. Body butters and herbal creams look wonderful packaged in glass jars with lids. When it comes to packaging your infused oils and serums, dark-colored amber or cobalt dropper bottles will come in handy. These dropper bottles are engineered to tolerate specified levels of UV radiation and UV contamination, making them ideal for storing light-sensitive formulations.

Protective Equipment

As a herbalist, your safety should be your top consideration. As a result, investing in eye and hand protection is essential at the very least. Working with heat or sharp objects may need the use of more specific protection equipment.

Module 10: Traditional Medicine

Traditional medicine is the collection of information, skills, and practices based on personal experiences and cultural beliefs that are used to diagnose, cure, and prevent illness. The focus of this unit will be on Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine.

Defining Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a centuries-old wellness and health system that the Chinese have employed to improve their overall well-being for millennia. Unlike western medicine, which focuses on disease treatment, TCM emphasizes an individual's overall health. Let us use a machine as an example to better grasp the notion of traditional Chinese medicine: Western medicine considers the human body as a machine made up of numerous systems. To produce the intended result, any system requires the appropriate input.

Brief History

During the Shang Dynasty, or Shamanistic age, Chinese medicine was born. From 1766 until 1122 BCE, the dynasty reigned. When a person is cursed for upsetting an ancestor, Shang Di believes that they get ill. As science and philosophy supplied more explanations about life, TCM practice began to emerge. From 475 to 221 BCE, the Zoo Dynasty began in an era of intellectualism, eventually eroding the Shang Di perspective on disease.

Uses of Herbs in TCM

Chinese herbal medicine is used to bring opposing forces running through a channel in the body into equilibrium. Chinese herbs may have the same effect on the body as pharmaceuticals or modern therapy. Users should approach Chinese herbs with prudence, just as they would prescription medications. Sweet, bitter, sour, pungent, and salty are all flavors found in Chinese herbs. The five elements of nature are represented by each category: earth, fire, wood, metal, and water.

Defining Ayurvedic Medicine

Ayurvedic is a Sanskrit word derived from the Sanskrit words ayur and veda, which respectively represent life and wisdom. Wellness is emphasized in Ayurvedic treatment, which is founded on the serenity of the spirit, body, soul, heart, and mind. It also emphasizes balance rather than disease therapy to promote wellness. Ayurvedic medicine uses a variety of methods and therapeutic herbs to re-energize souls, cells, bones, and muscles.

The History of Ayurvedic Medicine

Ayurvedic medicine predates the use of Western medicine by more than 6,000 years. It started as an oral legacy of thought passed down from masters to many disciples. Although the origins of Ayurvedic medicine are uncertain, scholars assume the practice began with the Vedas. Ayurvedic is also said to have been written in Sanskrit. In ancient sources, Ayurvedic medicine was described as superhuman, eternal, without authorship, and not of man (Apaureseya).

Uses of Herbs in Ayurvedic Medicine

Massage, yoga, nutrition, meditation, aromatherapy, therapeutic spices, and oils are all utilized in conjunction with Ayurvedic botanicals. There are over 600 Ayurvedic herbal formulae and around 250 single plant medicines. The effects of Ayurvedic medicines are divided into two categories: pain relief and increased vitality. Ayurvedic medicines have been shown in several trials to provide significant health benefits. However, further research is still needed to back up these assertions. 

Module 11: Research

We will examine research and the many organizations dedicated to developing the topic of herbalism in this section of the course.

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has 27 institutes and centers, including the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) (NIH). Operating in the United States The Department of Health and Human Services is the federal government's major department for alternative intervention research and study. NCCAM conducts rigorous scientific research to determine the efficacy and safety of herbal medicine, as well as its potential role in improving health.

American Botanical Council

The American Botanical Council is a non-profit research and education organization whose aim is to encourage the responsible use of herbal medicine by providing knowledge. They assist the public in making informed decisions regarding herbal medicine through their publications and research.

American Herbalist Guild

The American Herbalist Guild (AHG) is a nonprofit educational organization whose major purpose is to promote professionalism and knowledge in medicinal herbalism. It was created in 1989. It also serves as a governing body for herbalists.

United Plant Savers

United Plant Savers is a non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring the safety of medical plants and their environments in the United States and Canada. This group works to preserve and create a sustainable supply for future generations.

Western Human Nutrition Research Center

The Western Human Nutrition Research Center (WHNRC) is located on the University of California's Davis campus. It aims to improve nutritional knowledge by examining the wide range of people's reactions to diet, nutrients, and other food components.

Agricultural Research Service

The Agricultural Research Service (ARS), the US Department of Agriculture's primary in-house research agency, is dedicated to addressing agricultural problems and contributing to the country's scientific knowledge.

American Botanical Council

The American Botanical Council (ABC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating consumers, healthcare professionals, researchers, the media, and other stakeholders on the safe and effective use of herbs and medicinal plants. It was founded in 1988. Its goal is to assist the public in making informed and responsible decisions concerning herbal medicine, which it regards as a legitimate type of treatment.

American Herbalists Guild

The American Herbalists Guild (AHG) is a professional organization that represents herbalists that specialize in the use of herbal medicine. The AHG aims to promote clinical herbalism as a viable profession by encouraging a high level of professionalism and education in therapeutic herbalism.

The Importance of Research

Recent research suggests that herbs and other plants may be useful in the treatment of major diseases including cancer and diabetes. More research into plant healing capabilities could lead to the cure of serious illnesses and the saving of lives. Herbal medicine may be a viable alternative to conventional therapy in many circumstances.

Module 12: Regulation

The regulatory framework governing herbal goods and dietary supplements in the United States will be discussed in this section of the course. As a herbalist, it's critical to be aware of the possible dangers of mass-produced supplements and substances.

Regulatory Oversight

Herbal supplements are not subject to the same level of FDA regulation as other dietary supplements. Because of their all-natural origins, herbal supplements are typically thought to be safe. Manufacturers must provide safety research for any material that was not utilized in the United States prior to 1994, according to the FDA. Before they go on sale, these supplements can be examined. Otherwise, manufacturers are not required to give information about their products to the FDA prior to selling them. In terms of their claims, however, the agency still has some responsibilities.

Risks and Labeling

Although herbal supplements are touted as natural and safe, they are frequently not what they appear to be when mass-produced without supervision. Many supplements contain synthetic substances that might be harmful to the consumer, thus herbalists should be cautious while purchasing herbal remedies. Pesticides and heavy metals have been discovered in several supplements. According to DNA barcoding research, goods sold by a dozen vendors were not what they claimed to be in a supplement study.

Consumer Groups

It's also vital to consider the target user when reviewing supplements from unknown manufacturers. Because many supplements are designed for general use, they may only be suitable for healthy individuals.

Special attention should be paid to the following groups:

  • Children and infants
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding

Safety Concerns

For safety reasons, dietary supplement manufacturers must report any major adverse occurrences to the FDA. This would allow the agency to investigate and perhaps take action to safeguard consumers. If there is proof that the dietary supplement is unsafe to consume, the FDA can pursue legal action against the firm that manufactures or distributes it. This could be in the form of a cautionary statement or a full-fledged recall.

Case Study: Herbal Doctor Remedies

After failing to follow proper manufacturing processes, Herbal Doctor Remedies was advised to remove their products off the market. Pesticides and other toxins aren't mixed in with supplements thanks to these manufacturing techniques.

Client Education

It's also crucial that you inform your clients about these dangers so that they can make informed decisions about herbs and herbal products. A well-intentioned person could easily purchase shady things by looking for the wrong item and blindly trusting the label.

Module 13: Business and Marketing

In Module 13, we'll look at business and marketing in the context of running a herbalist's business. This contains information on how to start a business, best practices for getting started, and partnering with the right vendors.

Finding Clients

Because the herbal products industry in the United States is flourishing, you should have no trouble finding customers for your herbal products or services. You will, however, face fierce competition due to the large number of suppliers offering herbal items for diverse uses. In the increasingly saturated herbal sector, differentiating your products or services is critical to success. Focus on what makes the thing you're offering distinctive and special in your marketing initiatives. Make an effort to develop a brand identity that people will recognize in the future.

Getting Started

In the domestic US market, selling herbal items or providing associated services can be highly profitable. To be successful, however, you must be knowledgeable of the legal, tax, and licensing regulations that apply to your firm. You should register your business whenever you have a solid business strategy and have secured finance for it. You must register with the federal and state governments if your business name is different from your own. Choose your business's location carefully, as it will have an impact on your tax and licensing obligations. Furthermore, the business structure has an impact on business registration, tax requirements, and personal liability.

Insurance and Liability

Employer's liability and worker's compensation insurance are both required if you have employees. If you manufacture herbal items, you should also consider purchasing product liability insurance, which will protect you in the event of a lawsuit alleging that your product caused injury.

Supply Chain

Because different portions of a plant must be treated to different methods, creating a high-quality and safe herbal product can be difficult. Flowers, for example, must be handled with greater care than leaves. After you've decided on your product's recipe, you'll need to acquire raw material samples from farmers or collectors. Depending on the plant you're looking for, you may opt to source locally or internationally. Regardless, you must make sure that the raw material has the chemical composition that the product requires.

Social Media Marketing

Because the herb industry is booming, you'll face a lot of competition if you're just getting started. Because it will take time for your brand to develop traction, having a solid marketing strategy is critical to generating enough revenue to keep your company afloat. Connecting with potential clients through social media marketing is a terrific approach to do so. Unlike traditional types of marketing, social media advertising is far less expensive, so you don't need to spend a lot of money to get seen. For example, Facebook ads are relatively inexpensive and will help you to reach a larger number of potential customers than traditional advertising.

Website and ECommerce Platforms

Most herbal businesses rely heavily on online sales. In order to optimize sales from your website, you must choose a platform that has the proper blend of capabilities. Compare objective statistics about their performance for existing vendors when picking a platform to host your ecommerce website. Examine the features, some of which may require an additional fee. You might, for example, discover that syncing your inventory with Amazon will cost you a lot of money.  

Recognition & Accreditation 

Upon successful completion of this course and achieving a passing score for the assessment, you will become a qualified master herbalist and get a better understanding of herbal medicine. You will also be issued with an international continuing education credit (CEU) certificate, accepted by many organizations worldwide. 

The Certificate is applicable worldwide, which demonstrates your commitment to learning new skills. You can share the certificate with your friends, relatives, co-workers, and potential employers. Also, include it in your resume/CV, professional social media profiles and job applications.

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Units of Study

Module 1: Introduction

  • Definition of Holistic and Alternative Medicine
  • What is Herbal Medicine?
  • Herbal Medicine in Historical Context
  • What is Pharmacology?
  • Roles of an Herbalist

Module 2: The Science of Herbs

  • Defining Herbs
  • Roots
  • Stem
  • Leaves
  • Flowers
  • Phytochemistry
  • Defense

Module 3: Conditions Treated

  • Digestive Health
  • Respiratory Health
  • Heart and Cardiac Function
  • Immune Function
  • Emotional and Mental Health
  • Digestive Health

Module 4: Modes of Administration

  • Luk Pra Kob
  • Hot Infusions
  • Cold Infusions
  • Decoctions
  • Making Herbal Syrups
  • Making Herbal Capsules

Module 5: Client Safety

  • Limitations of Herbs
  • Safety Best Practices
  • Comprehensive Medical History
  • Case Study: St. John’s Wort

Module 6: Essential Oils

  • Herbs and Essential Oils
  • Differences Between Herbalism and Aromatherapy
  • Dilution
  • Dispersion
  • Dose
  • Diversifying

Module 7: Bach Flower Remedies

  • Dr. Edward Bach
  • Design of Bach Flower Remedies
  • Vibrational Energy
  • Rescue Remedy

Module 8: Growing and Cultivating Herbs

  • Best Practices in Growing Herbs
  • Growing Herbs
  • Climate Considerations
  • Indoor Herb Gardens
  • Air Drying Herbs
  • Client Education

Module 9: Equipment and Supplies

  • Herbs
  • Solvents
  • Waxes and Butters
  • Cheesecloth
  • Measuring Utensils
  • Office Supplies
  • Packaging Materials
  • Protective Equipment

Module 10: Traditional Medicine

  • Defining Traditional Chinese Medicine
  • Brief History
  • Uses of Herbs in TCM
  • Defining Ayurvedic Medicine
  • The History of Ayurvedic Medicine
  • Uses of Herbs in Ayurvedic Medicine

Module 11: Research

  • The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine
  • American Botanical Council
  • American Herbalist Guild
  • United Plant Savers
  • Western Human Nutrition Research Center
  • Agricultural Research Service
  • American Botanical Council
  • American Herbalists Guild
  • The Importance of Research

Module 12: Regulation

  • Regulatory Oversight
  • Risks and Labeling
  • Consumer Groups
  • Safety Concerns
  • Case Study: Herbal Doctor Remedies
  • Client Education

Module 13: Business and Marketing

  • Finding Clients
  • Getting Started
  • Insurance and Liability
  • Supply Chain
  • Social Media Marketing
  • Website and ECommerce Platforms
Requirements

Entry requirements

Students must have basic literacy and numeracy skills.

Minimum education

Open entry. Previous schooling and academic achievements are not required for entry into this course.

Computer requirements

Students will need access to a computer and the internet.

Minimum specifications for the computer are:

Windows:

Microsoft Windows XP, or laterModern and up to date Browser (Internet Explorer 8 or later, Firefox, Chrome, Safari)

MAC/iOS

OSX/iOS 6 or laterModern and up to date Browser (Firefox, Chrome, Safari)

All systems

Internet bandwidth of 1Mb or fasterFlash player or a browser with HTML5 video capabilities(Currently Internet Explorer 9, Firefox, Chrome, Safari)

Students will also need access the following applications:

Adobe Acrobat Reader

Requirements

Entry requirements:

Students must have basic literacy and numeracy skills.


Minimum education:

Open entry. Previous schooling and academic achievements are not required for entry into this course.


Device requirements:

Students will need access to a computer/any device and the internet.

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Master Herbalist Online Certificate Course

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"The lessons were very informative and easy to understand. I look forward to continuing my education with the following courses." - Phoebe E. Verified Buyer.

The Master Herbalist Online Course offers a structured approach to understanding herbs that will greatly benefit your future engagement with them. It equips you with the necessary skills to study each herb in detail, leading to a deeper understanding of their properties and uses. This framework sets a foundation to build upon as you continue to learn and interact with the world of herbs.

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Course Summary

  • Delivery: Online
  • Access: Unlimited Lifetime
  • Time: Study at your own pace
  • Duration: 20 Hours
  • Assessments: Yes
  • Qualification: Certificate
About This Course

Study Master Herbalist Online Course; Become A Master Herbalist and Start Your Own Herbalist Business

Our Master Herbalist Online Course provides you with a framework that will shape all of your future interactions with herbs, ensuring that you can study each herb thoroughly, with a thorough understanding of its bioactive components, therapeutic actions, and possible uses, and then use it safely and effectively. You'll look into the history of herbal remedies and the origins of this wonderful therapeutic technique before moving on to plant botany and plant chemistry.

With this online course, you'll be ready to utilize herbs properly, as you'll learn about topics like contraindications and drug-herb interactions. You'll acquire experience when dealing with herbs and learn how to keep safety in mind at all times. With the foundations of your knowledge in place, you'll move on to learning about the herbs you'll be employing, as you study how to use different plants to heal illnesses of the body's six systems. There will be lots of tiny herb profiles for you to examine, and they will take you through the topics you should cover while understanding about a new plant.

Through these Master Herbalist Online Courses, you’ll explore two more herbal healing modalities – traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda.

What you will learn with our Master Herbalist Online Course

  • A History of Herbal Medicine
  • Botany –Understanding Plants
  • Plant Chemistry
  • Contraindications and Cautions
  • Materia Medica
  • Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine
  • Ayurvedic Medicine
  • Formulating Herbs
  • How to Make Herbal
  • Essential Oils
  • Bach Remedies and Flower Essences
  • Growing and Foraging Herbs
  • Setting Up in Business as a Herbalist 

Who would benefit from the Master Herbalist Online Course

Taking students from the basics onwards, this course is accessible to anyone who would like to learn more about aiding the healing process with a natural alternative to medicines and invasive sciences. Students of Naturopath, Homeopathy, and Chinese Nutritional Therapy in particular will enjoy the contents of the course, and will be able to put the knowledge learned to use in an existing business or to start a new business.

Master Herbalist Course - Requirements

The Master Herbalist Certification is delivered 100 percent online.

To successfully complete this course, a student must:

  • Have access to the internet and the necessary technical skills to navigate the online learning resources
  • Have access to any mobile device with internet connectivity (laptop, desktop, tablet)
  • Be a self-directed learner
  • Possess sound language and literacy skills

Master Herbalist Online Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction

Welcome to Master Herbalist's first module. This session will look at how herbs and medicine have intertwined throughout history and how they are utilized now.

Definition of Holistic and Alternative Medicine

Holistic medicine is a type of medicine that focuses on a person's full being, including their emotions, spirit, mind, and body, in order to promote wellbeing and optimal health. The holistic medical philosophy is based on the belief that each person can achieve an optimal degree of health in all facets of life.

What is Herbal Medicine?

Phytomedicine and herbalism are two terms used to describe herbal medicine. It is concerned with pharmacognosy. Plants and their extracts are used in herbal therapy to heal ailments.

Herbs are employed in alternative medicine production because of their therapeutic effects, flavor, or fragrance. Herbal medications are supplied as extracts, teas, capsules, dried or fresh plants, and pills and are used as dietary supplements.

Herbal Medicine in Historical Context

Herbs have long been employed in traditional medicine. The Ebers papyrus holds a collection of medical literature dating from 1550 BCE.

It includes some of the oldest examples of medical practice. This scroll contains 700 folk remedies and magical formulas for treating various ailments. Toenail pain, crocodile bites, and other diseases are among the ailments listed. It also explains how to get rid of scorpions, rodents, flies, and other pests from your home.

What is Pharmacology?

The study of living organisms' reactions to chemicals and medications, including manmade and natural compounds that affect a biological system, is known as pharmacology. Pharmacology also includes drug validation and medication handling.

It focuses on the research and design of novel pharmaceuticals that are intended to treat and cure diseases. Pharmacology is divided into numerous sections, one of which is pharmacodynamics, which investigates the physiological and chemical properties of medications. It also illustrates how molecular target interactions, such as enzyme systems or receptor proteins, affect drug behavior.

Roles of an Herbalist

Herbalists employ medical knowledge and plant understanding to cure a variety of allergies, ailments, and physical disorders by leveraging the body's self-healing power. Some herbal practitioners are referred to as medical herbalists, despite the fact that herbalists are not medical doctors.

Bath salts, oils, teas, lotions, pills, and ointments are common herbal therapeutic products. An herbalist's job description includes the following duties:

  • Making physical assessments and examinations
  • Producing and growing herbal remedies
  • Improving the body’s self-healing capacity through the use of small herbal remedies

To ensure proper client care, professional herbalists should possess a set of personal attributes. Herbalists should exemplify and cultivate the following characteristics:

  • Confidence in themselves and the efficacy of their herbs
  • Competence in choosing the right remedies
  • Willingness to listen to patients

Module 2: The Science of Herbs

We'll go through the science of herbs and what makes them unique in this section of the course. This will also include a brief anatomy and plant health overview.

Defining Herbs

Plants are a staple in our diet. They have their own distinct systems, and each component might have its own set of characteristics.

It can be difficult to put distinct plant components into context. Most fruits, for example, are the flowering sections of plants, whereas vegetables include elements like leaves and roots.

Herbs are difficult to define, and they're frequently confused with spices. Spices are usually non-leafy components of the plant, such as seeds and roots, whereas herbs are leafy sections of the plant.

Roots

Roots behave as straws, absorbing water and minerals from the earth. Small hairs on the roots promote surface exposure and aid in efficient absorption. Roots also act as a physical anchor for plants in the earth. In this fashion, they resemble feet.

Stem

Because it transmits food and water from one section of the plant to another, the stem is one of the most important parts. It also preserves food for times when food is scarce, such as in the autumn and winter when there aren't enough leaves to cook with. The stem is in charge of preparing new tissues like leaves. Unlike complicated plants and trees, herb stems are non-woody and soft. As a result, it's also known as a herbaceous stem.

Leaves

Herbs use leaves as miniature food factories. They convert water and carbon dioxide into food using light energy. Photosynthesis is the process of producing food in leaves. Herb leaves resemble grasses in appearance. Because of their narrow and long look, they are sometimes referred to as blades rather than leaves.

Flowers

Flowers are the plant's reproductive organs. They carry pollen and ovules, which fertilize to produce a seed that will grow into a new plant one day. Flowers can have a great medical value in some cases. Other flowers, such as lavender, are known for their pleasant scent.

Phytochemistry

Phytochemistry is a discipline of biology concerned with the chemicals and aromatic compounds found in plants. It also refers to the investigation of chemical interactions that occur within a plant.

Photosynthesis and respiration are the two most significant chemical reactions in plants. Plants also use a variety of compounds to fight themselves against diseases.

Photosynthesis is the conversion of water from the roots and carbon dioxide gas from the atmosphere into glucose and oxygen molecules. Life on Earth is a result of this chemical reaction.

Defense

To fight themselves against diseases, plants use chemicals and secondary metabolites. Once a pathogen has penetrated the plant's physical defenses, several poisons and enzymes make it difficult for it to thrive.

When a pathogen is recognized, antimicrobial enzymes are triggered and employed to efficiently kill the infection or stop it from growing. Salicylic acid is an essential component of plant defense. It is triggered by the pathogen attack and launches a chemical attack against it.

Module 3: Conditions Treated

Herbal therapy has shown promise in the treatment of a variety of ailments. In this lesson, we'll look at some of the ways herbal medicine can help with digestive health, heart and cardiac function, and respiratory health.

Digestive Health

Several plants are thought to help with digestion and various related health issues.

  • Ginger has a soothing and warming effect. It also has antibacterial and anti-nausea properties.
  • Turmeric may ease bloating, strengthen your liver, and function as a potent anti-inflammatory herb, in addition to assisting digestion. It can also be used as an antibacterial herb to help with digestion.
  • Fennel is a plant that can help with digestion by stimulating the liver, increasing appetite, and reducing bloating. It helps with colic and milk production.

Respiratory Health

Several herbal medicines may protect the respiratory system from bacteria, viruses, smoke, and other irritants. The following herbs may help to improve respiratory health:

  • Peppermint is well-known for having antihistamine properties. It may assist to enhance respiratory health and avoid the inflammation of the respiratory tract caused by allergies or foreign bodies.
  • Osha root is a powerful plant that has been used to treat respiratory infections for ages. The root of the plant can help with colds, coughs, and other lung illnesses. It may improve blood flow to the lungs and relieve congestion.

Heart and Cardiac Function

Herbs may also boost cardiac function and promote a healthy heart. These are some of the herbs that may help you maintain a healthy heart:

  • Cinnamon has been shown to lower cholesterol levels. It may also lower blood sugar and prevent people from diabetes, which can lead to strokes and heart attacks.
  • Cardamom is a spice that has been shown to lower blood pressure.
  • Garlic is thought to help reduce the chance of blood clots. Garlic has a number of health benefits. Apart from improving digestion, garlic has been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol levels by 10%.

Immune Function

Herbal medicines are said to boost the immune system. Herbs that can help improve your immune system include:

  • Garlic boosts white blood cell formation by having antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antibiotic effects.
  • Giloy is thought to aid in toxin elimination and blood purification. Its antioxidant capabilities also aid in immunity and bacteria combating.
  • Antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids abound in chia seeds. They're thought to help manage inflammation and promote immunity.

Emotional and Mental Health

Herbal medicines can help with more than just physical ailments. They may also aid in the improvement of emotional and mental well-being.

  • Anxiety and insomnia sufferers can find comfort with lemon balm. Combining lemon balm with other relaxing herbs has been shown to improve mental wellness in research.
  • Rosemary contains antioxidants and may have antidepressant properties, according to studies. It may help reduce agitation and improve cognitive performance in Alzheimer's patients. It is thought to improve cognitive performance, reduce stress, and improve focus.

Digestive Health

Herbs can also be used to treat a variety of problems that influence digestive health and how the body reacts to food, waste, and minerals.

  • Herbs such as ginger, senna, peppermint tea, marshmallow root, licorice root, chamomile, parsley, and others may be used to treat chronic constipation.
  • Herbs such as ginger, turmeric, blackberry leaves, red raspberry leaves, and others may be used to treat diarrhea.
  • Gastroenteritis is a digestive health issue that may be treated with herbs such as lemon balm, slippery elm, chamomile, and others.

Module 4: Modes of Administration

The various modalities of administration for herbal products will be discussed in this unit. Depending on a client's specific needs, each method has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Luk Pra Kob

Although many people in the West are unfamiliar with Thai herbal compress massage, also known as Luk Pra Kob, it is quite popular in Asia. One of Thailand's most fascinating traditional medicines is Luk Pra Kob. It has been used for healing, relaxation, and pain reduction for thousands of years.

The Thai herbal compress is made up of herbs that have a variety of medicinal characteristics and are used to relieve pain. The herbs employed in a blend are determined by the disease being treated. The compress is traditionally made with a base of common herbs such as plai, ginger, lemongrass, and turmeric. The Thai herbal compress stimulates blood circulation and acupressure points, which are thought to aid in the treatment of a variety of diseases. It's also utilized for skin irritation, painful muscles, and pain alleviation in general.

Hot Infusions

Many herbal practices include making hot infusions. Hot herbal infusions (also known as teas) aid in the extraction of essential vitamins, fragrant oils, and enzymes from nutrient-dense plants including sweet basil, raspberry leaves, ginger root, and others. Drinking nutritious hot infusions on a daily basis is thought to be a fantastic approach to progressively improve your general health. To produce a hot infusion, combine herbs and water and simmer for 10–20 minutes, straining away any solids before drinking.

Cold Infusions

Plant material is steeped in room-temperature water for a period of time to make a cold infusion. This approach is utilized for fragile herbs that lose their therapeutic characteristics when placed in boiling water, such as rosebuds or peppermint leaves. Making cold infusions is a more time-consuming technique, and it must be consumed straight away due to the risk of bacterial growth due to the lack of boiling. Place herbs in a container and cover with water to make a cold infusion. Allow for many hours or overnight soaking. Remove any particles with a strainer placed over a bowl.

Decoctions

Decoctions, or simmering teas, are commonly employed in herbal medicine to extract fluids from tough plant parts like roots, barks, seeds, and dried fruits. Herbs can also be infused in a decoction that has been produced later. Because of the prolonged boiling time, decoctions are more concentrated and have a stronger flavor than hot infusions. Gargle with them for sore throats, fevers, and other ailments. To produce a herbal decoction, boil chopped hard herbs in water for at least 45 minutes. After that, add the soft leafy herbs and continue to boil for another 10-15 minutes. Finally, drain it and keep it in a clean glass jar once it has cooled.

Making Herbal Syrups

Herbal syrups are a decoction-like mixture of herbs with sugar, glycerin, or honey that has been boiled together in water. It's an excellent approach to make the bitter herbs more tolerable to toddlers and those with sensitive palates. To produce a syrup to your satisfaction, you can add any number of herbs. These herbal syrups can be used to improve the flavor of other foods or beverages. They're usually made up of a variety of herbs, each with its own set of benefits. The 1:1 ratio of tea to honey keeps the syrup fresher for longer.

Making Herbal Capsules

Making herbal capsules is a convenient way to carry herbs with you. The procedure is straightforward, and it allows you to create bespoke herbal formulae that are matched to your specific needs. You can also combine various herbs in one capsule to make them more effective than bulk herbs. Herbal capsules are popular with people who want to avoid the synthetic components included in many other capsules. To create herbal capsules, you'll need a few different pieces of equipment. An electric grinder, a capsule machine, empty capsules, and a storage jar are all required.

Module 5: Client Safety

In this module, we'll talk about how to keep clients safe when utilizing herbs as a health therapy and how to make sure they're aware of any potential concerns. This will involve an examination of a potential client's medical history, optimal safety measures, and a case study of a regularly used herb that can interact with certain drugs.

Limitations of Herbs

Herbalists may recommend herbs as a natural treatment for a variety of ailments and uses, such as sleep aids, pain relief, stress management, illness prevention, and more. Herbal supplements are a popular and natural way to cure or prevent problems, but they have certain restrictions.

Herbs can interact negatively with other medications or induce allergic responses in patients. They aren't subject to the same level of FDA scrutiny as other medical therapies, putting greater burden on individuals.

Safety Best Practices

Several safety factors must be taken into account when using herbs as health remedies. To begin with, not every situation necessitates the usage of herbs. If a customer is taking prescription medication, be sure the herbs don't interact negatively with it. If your client is about to have surgery, is pregnant, or is planning to breastfeed, some herbs may need to be avoided. Herbs should also be avoided if you have a serious health problem like kidney or liver illness.

If a customer exhibits adverse symptoms, they should discontinue use and seek medical advice. Before prescribing herbs, you should have a basic awareness of the client's needs as well as the general risk level of employing alternative or holistic medicine versus traditional interventions.

Comprehensive Medical History

The more information you have about your customer, the better you'll be able to recommend herbs that are both safe and beneficial for their needs. You'll also want to know about specific aspects of their lifestyle. Some herbs, for example, can make you more sensitive to sunlight or produce weariness, which can make it difficult to maintain an active daily routine.

Case Study: St. John’s Wort

St. John's wort is a popular herb. This herb has been used for a variety of medical purposes since the time of the ancient Greeks, and it has been documented in use since then. Depression, ADHD symptoms, menopausal symptoms, and a range of skin diseases are all treated with St. John's wort. Klamath weed, goatweed, and hypericum are some of the common names for it. That does not, however, make it innocuous.

Although well-known and widely used, St. John's wort can interact negatively with a wide range of drugs. These encounters can be life-threatening at times. As a result, while the herb is beneficial in many instances, it is not necessarily safe for persons who are taking other medications or are undergoing medical treatment.

Module 6: Essential Oils

In this section, we'll look at how essential oils are used with various herbs. We'll go through the differences between herbalism and aromatherapy as well. Essential oils are related to a number of key concepts that should be grasped in respect to each field.

Herbs and Essential Oils

A plant's flavor and aroma are produced by essential oils found in its leaves, flowers, bark, roots, and seeds. Essential oils are complex mixtures of aromatic chemicals that impart flavor to each herb. They're found in the plant's trichomes, which are special cells.

Essential oils can be made from practically any herb, but the amount of oil generated by each species determines whether it is financially viable. Essential oils are commonly used in aromatherapy, perfumery, and cosmetics, but they can also be utilized medicinally and in cooking.

Therapeutic herbs are used to treat a variety of respiratory issues. Aromatherapy can be a very effective treatment because it works directly on the respiratory system. It's also worth noting that essential oils are known to have antibacterial properties.

Differences Between Herbalism and Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils to cure the body, mind, and spirit. Essential oils are bio compounds-rich natural oils collected from plants. The oil of each plant has a distinct character and medicinal effect. They're all-natural therapies that can help you unwind, feel better, and hydrate your body. Inhaling essential oils or absorbing them through the skin are the two ways essential oils enter the body.

Aromatherapy is a type of herbal medicine that operates on the same concept as herbal medicine: harnessing the energy or vital life forces found in nature. Plant-based medicines are the oldest type of medicine, having been used in nearly every culture on the globe.

In herbology, a physical part of a plant is used to treat ailments, but in aromatherapy, just the extracted oil of the plant is used. The type of substance used (herb or oil), as well as the effect of relative concentrations, distinguishes the two schools of natural therapy. Essential oils have a concentration that is 75–100 times higher than that of dried plants.

Dilution

Consider a store-bought frozen fruit juice concentrate to get an understanding of what dilution implies. This concentration is too strong to consume or drink straight from the container, but it can be made drinkable by diluting it with a specific amount of water.

Dispersion

While adding water dilutes the frozen juice concentrate, it does not spread it until the mixture is well swirled. Dispersal of essential oils is another important factor to consider when it comes to properly using essential oils.

Dose

Dose demands greater specificity than we usually see in essential oil recipes. The dose takes into account the treatment's amount and duration, as well as any contraindications. Take a look at the directions on a bottle of medicine in your medicine cabinet. It will inform you how to measure a single dose, how to follow the dosing plan, and whether or not there are any contraindications.

Diversifying

One of the simplest and safest ways to introduce essential oils into your herbal practice is to combine them with infused herbal oils. A topical pain blend made with St. John's wort, calendula, and arnica flowers, as well as essential oils like lavender, rosemary, and helichrysum, for example, would be fantastic.

Module 7: Bach Flower Remedies

The Bach flower remedies will be covered in this section of the course. Flower essences and how they can be used to treat emotional wellness are the emphasis of this unique system.

Dr. Edward Bach

Dr. Edward Bach was born in Moseley, near Birmingham, England, on September 24, 1886. For nearly 20 years, Dr. Bach worked as a Harley Street consultant and bacteriologist. After studying medicine at the University College Hospital in Cambridge and working at the National Temperance Hospital, he earned a Diploma in Public Health.

Dr. Bach entered the area of homeopathy in 1919 after performing research in immunology at the Royal London Homeopathic Hospital's laboratory. Although Bach was successful in his work utilizing mainstream medicine, he preferred to study alternative remedies.

Design of Bach Flower Remedies

Bach flower remedies are flower-based medicines prepared from wildflowers that have been preserved in a solvent. Because they seek to gently restore equilibrium in the body and mind, these therapies are considered a more natural and safe approach of healing.

Bach flower treatments help to restore the mind and body by removing negative emotions from the individual. Negative emotions like anxiety and indecision can throw the body's natural balance off. Bach flower treatments help to alleviate bad emotions and restore balance in the user's life.

Vibrational Energy

The energy in a vibrating system that is otherwise at rest is referred to as vibrational energy. Flowers have a significant relationship with vibrational energy, according to Bach's studies, because flowers vibrate at distinct frequencies that can be linked to vibrations of specific emotions.

The frequency with which the human body fluctuates in response to the emotions we are experiencing is referred to as vibrational energy. As a result, when we feel a certain emotion, our body's vibrational frequency changes.

Bioelectric fields are detectable in flowers. These fields are released in water and have a potency that can have beneficial impacts on our cells once we consume it.

Rescue Remedy

The majority of floral essences are made out of just one variety of flower. Rescue Treatment is a unique and efficient remedy that is made up of a mix of five wildflowers. Rescue Remedy is claimed to offer moderate comfort from the strains of ordinary living. Anxiety, metabolic disorders, cardiac ailments, and other health problems are all linked to stress. Rescue Remedy may aid in the reduction of anxiety, the promotion of excellent quality sleep, and the relief of pain.

Module 8: Growing and Cultivating Herbs

We'll learn about the best techniques for growing herbs in this course, as well as the advantages of cultivating rather than buying herbs. Then we'll go through some of the climate concerns that must be taken into account while working with herbs.

Best Practices in Growing Herbs

Herbs can be cultivated in pots outside, on a windowsill, or directly in the ground. The specific requirements of each plant will differ depending on its kind.

  • In a semi-sun setting, soft-leaved herbs like basil, coriander, chamomile, parsley, and fennel will thrive.
  • Lavender, rosemary, thyme, and yarrow, for example, are woody-stemmed herbs that demand more sun.
  • For fresh leaves throughout the summer, sow annual herbs like basil and coriander seeds every couple of weeks. Allow annuals to develop seed so that new plants can be grown in the spring.

Growing Herbs

Some herbalists choose to grow their own herbs rather than purchasing them from a vendor. All you need are seeds, a few pots, some dirt, and some sun or light to grow herbs. You may find all of these items at your local hardware or gardening store. When you produce your own herbs, you have more control over harvesting time and freshness, and there is no damage from transportation or storage. You can plant whatever you like and just use what you need. Use what you have, and more will grow back the next time you need it.

Climate Considerations

The majority of herbs need 6 hours of sunshine per day to thrive. Mint, coriander, parsley, and lemon balm are some of the herbs that can thrive in gloomy areas with little sun. To thrive, all plants need enough warmth and light. Otherwise, they would become thin and spindly, produce smaller leaves, and have a weaker perfume. Herbs also require a right balance of a humid environment and sufficient air flow. Containers should be crowded together to create a humid atmosphere; however, the closer the containers are together, the less air will be able to circulate effectively through the plants.

Indoor Herb Gardens

Indoor herb garden kits are particularly useful since they include everything you need to get started growing herbs from the ground up. This is especially useful for beginner herbalists or those moving to producing their own herbs. The majority of these indoor gardens have innovative features such as automated watering and grow lights, which provide essential lighting as well as a tracking system for the next fertilizing or watering phase.

Air Drying Herbs

Air drying herbs is one of the simplest ways to dry them at home. It takes a little longer, but the flavor is purer and cleaner than with other procedures. Herbs can be air-dried in bundles, which takes longer, or stretched out on racks, which takes up more space. The risk of them decomposing or molding before they are completely dry is reduced by drying them in bundles.

Set up a clothesline that's sturdy enough to withstand the weight of the bundles and long enough to keep them apart to air dry in a safe spot away from direct sunshine.

Client Education

It's also crucial that you inform your clients about these dangers so that they can make informed decisions about herbs and herbal products. A well-intentioned person could easily purchase shady things by looking for the wrong item and blindly trusting the label.

Worse, they may not be aware of the dangers of combining herbal medications with conventional therapy. Cat's claw, for example, can be used as an anti-inflammatory herbal remedy for illnesses like arthritis. It can, however, raise the chances of transplant rejection.

Module 9: Equipment and Supplies

The equipment and supplies you'll need to run your own herbalism business are covered in this section of the course. If you're new to herbalism and are just getting started with your own herbalist business, the initial setup can be frightening.

Herbs

To start your business selling herbal products and services, you'll need herbs. However, we recognize that you may be working with a restricted budget to launch a new business. Only a few essential plants are required, which can be purchased from local herb shops or verified online sites.

Solvents

Various solvents will make herbal preparations such as syrups, infused oils, and tinctures easier to make. Carrier oils are among the most used solvents. Almond oil, coconut oil, castor oil, and olive oil are examples of natural oils. They're particularly useful for preparing salves and infusing oils into other medicines. If you want to prepare herbal tinctures professionally, using multiple alcohols with varied alcohol percentages is a good idea.

Waxes and Butters

You'll need several types of butter and waxes to make body lotions, salves, and organic body butter. Beeswax and soy wax are two popular wax options. Consider candelilla or carnauba wax as well if you're looking for vegan alternatives. Cocoa butter, shea butter, kokum butter, and avocado butter can also be used to manufacture numerous body butters and ointments.

Cheesecloth

Cheesecloth is a useful tool for herbalists as well as those working in the dairy sector. During the bargain season, most professional herbalists stock up on cheesecloth, which serves as an effective filter for their herbal preparations.

Measuring Utensils

Cooking utensils are required for your herbal recipes, just as they are for all other kitchen recipes. When preparing lotions and body butters, they will easily combine all of the basic elements. A healthy mix of wooden and stainless-steel measuring spoons is also recommended. When working with recipes that need heating and melting your herbs, stainless steel spoons will come in helpful, while wooden spoons will perform well when a delicate touch is required.

Office Supplies

As a herbalist, you'll need to write down your thoughts, lessons learned, mistakes made in prior experiments, and product formulations on a regular basis. As a result, keeping track of your records requires a notepad and some basic equipment. You could even buy a binder with page dividers and blank paper to keep all of your handouts and notes in one location. You should also get some pens, forms, and colored pencils to scribble down notes.

Packaging Materials

Jars of many shapes and sizes are not only necessary, but also attractive additions to your herbal preparations. You may store your herbs, spices, and teas in mason jars. Body butters and herbal creams look wonderful packaged in glass jars with lids. When it comes to packaging your infused oils and serums, dark-colored amber or cobalt dropper bottles will come in handy. These dropper bottles are engineered to tolerate specified levels of UV radiation and UV contamination, making them ideal for storing light-sensitive formulations.

Protective Equipment

As a herbalist, your safety should be your top consideration. As a result, investing in eye and hand protection is essential at the very least. Working with heat or sharp objects may need the use of more specific protection equipment.

Module 10: Traditional Medicine

Traditional medicine is the collection of information, skills, and practices based on personal experiences and cultural beliefs that are used to diagnose, cure, and prevent illness. The focus of this unit will be on Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine.

Defining Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a centuries-old wellness and health system that the Chinese have employed to improve their overall well-being for millennia. Unlike western medicine, which focuses on disease treatment, TCM emphasizes an individual's overall health. Let us use a machine as an example to better grasp the notion of traditional Chinese medicine: Western medicine considers the human body as a machine made up of numerous systems. To produce the intended result, any system requires the appropriate input.

Brief History

During the Shang Dynasty, or Shamanistic age, Chinese medicine was born. From 1766 until 1122 BCE, the dynasty reigned. When a person is cursed for upsetting an ancestor, Shang Di believes that they get ill. As science and philosophy supplied more explanations about life, TCM practice began to emerge. From 475 to 221 BCE, the Zoo Dynasty began in an era of intellectualism, eventually eroding the Shang Di perspective on disease.

Uses of Herbs in TCM

Chinese herbal medicine is used to bring opposing forces running through a channel in the body into equilibrium. Chinese herbs may have the same effect on the body as pharmaceuticals or modern therapy. Users should approach Chinese herbs with prudence, just as they would prescription medications. Sweet, bitter, sour, pungent, and salty are all flavors found in Chinese herbs. The five elements of nature are represented by each category: earth, fire, wood, metal, and water.

Defining Ayurvedic Medicine

Ayurvedic is a Sanskrit word derived from the Sanskrit words ayur and veda, which respectively represent life and wisdom. Wellness is emphasized in Ayurvedic treatment, which is founded on the serenity of the spirit, body, soul, heart, and mind. It also emphasizes balance rather than disease therapy to promote wellness. Ayurvedic medicine uses a variety of methods and therapeutic herbs to re-energize souls, cells, bones, and muscles.

The History of Ayurvedic Medicine

Ayurvedic medicine predates the use of Western medicine by more than 6,000 years. It started as an oral legacy of thought passed down from masters to many disciples. Although the origins of Ayurvedic medicine are uncertain, scholars assume the practice began with the Vedas. Ayurvedic is also said to have been written in Sanskrit. In ancient sources, Ayurvedic medicine was described as superhuman, eternal, without authorship, and not of man (Apaureseya).

Uses of Herbs in Ayurvedic Medicine

Massage, yoga, nutrition, meditation, aromatherapy, therapeutic spices, and oils are all utilized in conjunction with Ayurvedic botanicals. There are over 600 Ayurvedic herbal formulae and around 250 single plant medicines. The effects of Ayurvedic medicines are divided into two categories: pain relief and increased vitality. Ayurvedic medicines have been shown in several trials to provide significant health benefits. However, further research is still needed to back up these assertions. 

Module 11: Research

We will examine research and the many organizations dedicated to developing the topic of herbalism in this section of the course.

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has 27 institutes and centers, including the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) (NIH). Operating in the United States The Department of Health and Human Services is the federal government's major department for alternative intervention research and study. NCCAM conducts rigorous scientific research to determine the efficacy and safety of herbal medicine, as well as its potential role in improving health.

American Botanical Council

The American Botanical Council is a non-profit research and education organization whose aim is to encourage the responsible use of herbal medicine by providing knowledge. They assist the public in making informed decisions regarding herbal medicine through their publications and research.

American Herbalist Guild

The American Herbalist Guild (AHG) is a nonprofit educational organization whose major purpose is to promote professionalism and knowledge in medicinal herbalism. It was created in 1989. It also serves as a governing body for herbalists.

United Plant Savers

United Plant Savers is a non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring the safety of medical plants and their environments in the United States and Canada. This group works to preserve and create a sustainable supply for future generations.

Western Human Nutrition Research Center

The Western Human Nutrition Research Center (WHNRC) is located on the University of California's Davis campus. It aims to improve nutritional knowledge by examining the wide range of people's reactions to diet, nutrients, and other food components.

Agricultural Research Service

The Agricultural Research Service (ARS), the US Department of Agriculture's primary in-house research agency, is dedicated to addressing agricultural problems and contributing to the country's scientific knowledge.

American Botanical Council

The American Botanical Council (ABC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating consumers, healthcare professionals, researchers, the media, and other stakeholders on the safe and effective use of herbs and medicinal plants. It was founded in 1988. Its goal is to assist the public in making informed and responsible decisions concerning herbal medicine, which it regards as a legitimate type of treatment.

American Herbalists Guild

The American Herbalists Guild (AHG) is a professional organization that represents herbalists that specialize in the use of herbal medicine. The AHG aims to promote clinical herbalism as a viable profession by encouraging a high level of professionalism and education in therapeutic herbalism.

The Importance of Research

Recent research suggests that herbs and other plants may be useful in the treatment of major diseases including cancer and diabetes. More research into plant healing capabilities could lead to the cure of serious illnesses and the saving of lives. Herbal medicine may be a viable alternative to conventional therapy in many circumstances.

Module 12: Regulation

The regulatory framework governing herbal goods and dietary supplements in the United States will be discussed in this section of the course. As a herbalist, it's critical to be aware of the possible dangers of mass-produced supplements and substances.

Regulatory Oversight

Herbal supplements are not subject to the same level of FDA regulation as other dietary supplements. Because of their all-natural origins, herbal supplements are typically thought to be safe. Manufacturers must provide safety research for any material that was not utilized in the United States prior to 1994, according to the FDA. Before they go on sale, these supplements can be examined. Otherwise, manufacturers are not required to give information about their products to the FDA prior to selling them. In terms of their claims, however, the agency still has some responsibilities.

Risks and Labeling

Although herbal supplements are touted as natural and safe, they are frequently not what they appear to be when mass-produced without supervision. Many supplements contain synthetic substances that might be harmful to the consumer, thus herbalists should be cautious while purchasing herbal remedies. Pesticides and heavy metals have been discovered in several supplements. According to DNA barcoding research, goods sold by a dozen vendors were not what they claimed to be in a supplement study.

Consumer Groups

It's also vital to consider the target user when reviewing supplements from unknown manufacturers. Because many supplements are designed for general use, they may only be suitable for healthy individuals.

Special attention should be paid to the following groups:

  • Children and infants
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding

Safety Concerns

For safety reasons, dietary supplement manufacturers must report any major adverse occurrences to the FDA. This would allow the agency to investigate and perhaps take action to safeguard consumers. If there is proof that the dietary supplement is unsafe to consume, the FDA can pursue legal action against the firm that manufactures or distributes it. This could be in the form of a cautionary statement or a full-fledged recall.

Case Study: Herbal Doctor Remedies

After failing to follow proper manufacturing processes, Herbal Doctor Remedies was advised to remove their products off the market. Pesticides and other toxins aren't mixed in with supplements thanks to these manufacturing techniques.

Client Education

It's also crucial that you inform your clients about these dangers so that they can make informed decisions about herbs and herbal products. A well-intentioned person could easily purchase shady things by looking for the wrong item and blindly trusting the label.

Module 13: Business and Marketing

In Module 13, we'll look at business and marketing in the context of running a herbalist's business. This contains information on how to start a business, best practices for getting started, and partnering with the right vendors.

Finding Clients

Because the herbal products industry in the United States is flourishing, you should have no trouble finding customers for your herbal products or services. You will, however, face fierce competition due to the large number of suppliers offering herbal items for diverse uses. In the increasingly saturated herbal sector, differentiating your products or services is critical to success. Focus on what makes the thing you're offering distinctive and special in your marketing initiatives. Make an effort to develop a brand identity that people will recognize in the future.

Getting Started

In the domestic US market, selling herbal items or providing associated services can be highly profitable. To be successful, however, you must be knowledgeable of the legal, tax, and licensing regulations that apply to your firm. You should register your business whenever you have a solid business strategy and have secured finance for it. You must register with the federal and state governments if your business name is different from your own. Choose your business's location carefully, as it will have an impact on your tax and licensing obligations. Furthermore, the business structure has an impact on business registration, tax requirements, and personal liability.

Insurance and Liability

Employer's liability and worker's compensation insurance are both required if you have employees. If you manufacture herbal items, you should also consider purchasing product liability insurance, which will protect you in the event of a lawsuit alleging that your product caused injury.

Supply Chain

Because different portions of a plant must be treated to different methods, creating a high-quality and safe herbal product can be difficult. Flowers, for example, must be handled with greater care than leaves. After you've decided on your product's recipe, you'll need to acquire raw material samples from farmers or collectors. Depending on the plant you're looking for, you may opt to source locally or internationally. Regardless, you must make sure that the raw material has the chemical composition that the product requires.

Social Media Marketing

Because the herb industry is booming, you'll face a lot of competition if you're just getting started. Because it will take time for your brand to develop traction, having a solid marketing strategy is critical to generating enough revenue to keep your company afloat. Connecting with potential clients through social media marketing is a terrific approach to do so. Unlike traditional types of marketing, social media advertising is far less expensive, so you don't need to spend a lot of money to get seen. For example, Facebook ads are relatively inexpensive and will help you to reach a larger number of potential customers than traditional advertising.

Website and ECommerce Platforms

Most herbal businesses rely heavily on online sales. In order to optimize sales from your website, you must choose a platform that has the proper blend of capabilities. Compare objective statistics about their performance for existing vendors when picking a platform to host your ecommerce website. Examine the features, some of which may require an additional fee. You might, for example, discover that syncing your inventory with Amazon will cost you a lot of money.  

Recognition & Accreditation 

Upon successful completion of this course and achieving a passing score for the assessment, you will become a qualified master herbalist and get a better understanding of herbal medicine. You will also be issued with an international continuing education credit (CEU) certificate, accepted by many organizations worldwide. 

The Certificate is applicable worldwide, which demonstrates your commitment to learning new skills. You can share the certificate with your friends, relatives, co-workers, and potential employers. Also, include it in your resume/CV, professional social media profiles and job applications.

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Units of Study

Module 1: Introduction

  • Definition of Holistic and Alternative Medicine
  • What is Herbal Medicine?
  • Herbal Medicine in Historical Context
  • What is Pharmacology?
  • Roles of an Herbalist

Module 2: The Science of Herbs

  • Defining Herbs
  • Roots
  • Stem
  • Leaves
  • Flowers
  • Phytochemistry
  • Defense

Module 3: Conditions Treated

  • Digestive Health
  • Respiratory Health
  • Heart and Cardiac Function
  • Immune Function
  • Emotional and Mental Health
  • Digestive Health

Module 4: Modes of Administration

  • Luk Pra Kob
  • Hot Infusions
  • Cold Infusions
  • Decoctions
  • Making Herbal Syrups
  • Making Herbal Capsules

Module 5: Client Safety

  • Limitations of Herbs
  • Safety Best Practices
  • Comprehensive Medical History
  • Case Study: St. John’s Wort

Module 6: Essential Oils

  • Herbs and Essential Oils
  • Differences Between Herbalism and Aromatherapy
  • Dilution
  • Dispersion
  • Dose
  • Diversifying

Module 7: Bach Flower Remedies

  • Dr. Edward Bach
  • Design of Bach Flower Remedies
  • Vibrational Energy
  • Rescue Remedy

Module 8: Growing and Cultivating Herbs

  • Best Practices in Growing Herbs
  • Growing Herbs
  • Climate Considerations
  • Indoor Herb Gardens
  • Air Drying Herbs
  • Client Education

Module 9: Equipment and Supplies

  • Herbs
  • Solvents
  • Waxes and Butters
  • Cheesecloth
  • Measuring Utensils
  • Office Supplies
  • Packaging Materials
  • Protective Equipment

Module 10: Traditional Medicine

  • Defining Traditional Chinese Medicine
  • Brief History
  • Uses of Herbs in TCM
  • Defining Ayurvedic Medicine
  • The History of Ayurvedic Medicine
  • Uses of Herbs in Ayurvedic Medicine

Module 11: Research

  • The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine
  • American Botanical Council
  • American Herbalist Guild
  • United Plant Savers
  • Western Human Nutrition Research Center
  • Agricultural Research Service
  • American Botanical Council
  • American Herbalists Guild
  • The Importance of Research

Module 12: Regulation

  • Regulatory Oversight
  • Risks and Labeling
  • Consumer Groups
  • Safety Concerns
  • Case Study: Herbal Doctor Remedies
  • Client Education

Module 13: Business and Marketing

  • Finding Clients
  • Getting Started
  • Insurance and Liability
  • Supply Chain
  • Social Media Marketing
  • Website and ECommerce Platforms
Requirements

Entry requirements

Students must have basic literacy and numeracy skills.

Minimum education

Open entry. Previous schooling and academic achievements are not required for entry into this course.

Computer requirements

Students will need access to a computer and the internet.

Minimum specifications for the computer are:

Windows:

Microsoft Windows XP, or laterModern and up to date Browser (Internet Explorer 8 or later, Firefox, Chrome, Safari)

MAC/iOS

OSX/iOS 6 or laterModern and up to date Browser (Firefox, Chrome, Safari)

All systems

Internet bandwidth of 1Mb or fasterFlash player or a browser with HTML5 video capabilities(Currently Internet Explorer 9, Firefox, Chrome, Safari)

Students will also need access the following applications:

Adobe Acrobat Reader

Requirements

Entry requirements:

Students must have basic literacy and numeracy skills.


Minimum education:

Open entry. Previous schooling and academic achievements are not required for entry into this course.


Device requirements:

Students will need access to a computer/any device and the internet.

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3.  What is the FREE Personal Success Training Program?

The Personal Success Training Program
was developed by Courses For Success to help our customers achieve
success. Currently, we are offering this program for FREE with every
course or bundle purchase this month. This is a limited time offer!

4.  Are there any requirements to study this course?

No,
anyone who has an interest in learning more about this subject matter
is encouraged to take our course. There are no entry requirements to
take this course.

5.  Do I require to have finished high school to complete this course?

No,
you do not require a High School Diploma or to have finished school to
study this course, this course is open to anyone who would like to take
this course.

6.  What if English is not my first language?

This
course is provided in English, however, due to the digital nature of
our training, you can take your time studying the material and make use
of tools such as google translate and Grammarly.

7.  Is this course online or conducted in person?

All our courses are accessible online on any device. You may complete them at your own pace and at your own time.

8.  How do I receive my course?

After
you have completed the payment, you will receive a confirmation email
and tax receipt. You will also receive an email containing your course
login details (username and password), as well as instructions on how to
access and log in to your course via the internet with any device,
please check your junk/spam folder in the event that you do not receive
the email.

9.  When does this course start?

Providing
you have internet access you can start this course whenever you like,
just go to the login page and insert your username and password and you
can access the online material.

10.  What is online learning like?

Online learning is easy, if not easier than a traditional academic situation.
By studying an online course, the usual boundaries caused by location and time constraints are eliminated, meaning you are free to study where and when you want at your own pace.

Of course, you will need to be able to self-manage your time and be organized, but with our help, you’ll soon find yourself settling into a comfortable rhythm of study.

11.  What computer skills do I need for my course?

You
don't need to be a computer expert to succeed with our online training,
but you should be comfortable typing, using the internet and be capable
of using common software (such as Microsoft word).

12.  How long will you have access to the online course?

The majority of our courses have unlimited lifetime access, meaning you can access this course whenever you want.

Please also check the course summary, as a small selection of courses have limited access.

13.  How long will my course take?

Course duration, is listed under Course Summary

14.  Do I need to buy textbooks?

All the required material for your course is included in the online system, you do not need to buy anything else.

15.  Is the course interactive?

Yes, all our courses are interactive.

16.  Is there an assessment or exam?

Yes,
you will be required to complete a multiple-choice test online at the
end of your course, you can do this test as many times as you require.

17.  What type of certificate will I receive?

You
will receive a Certificate of Completion that is applicable worldwide,
which demonstrates your commitment to learning new skills. You can share
the certificate with your friends, relatives, co-workers and employers.
Also, include it in your resume/CV, professional social media profiles
and job applications.

Wendy Sue Hunt - 5 STAR REVIEW
"If you are considering taking any “Courses for Success”, I would highly recommend it. I have always been a firm believer it’s important to always sharpen your skills. You are never too old to learn more. I found the courses very helpful, interesting and easy to understand.
The term “Courses for Success” helped me in my current position to succeed. After completing the courses, I gave my manager the completion certificates. Recently I received a promotion too."

Valencia Marie Aviles - 5 STAR REVIEW
"I
had a very good experience with my course. It has helped me to get
multiple jobs and prepared me for almost everything I would need to
know. The course was very informative and easy to understand and broken
up perfectly to be done in a short amount of time while still learning a
good amount! I would recommend Courses for Success to anyone trying to
get abs certifications for job advancements, it is well worth it!"

ELENA GRIFFIN - 5 STAR REVIEW
"I have absolutely enjoyed the materials from Courses for Success. The materials are easy to understand which makes learning enjoyable. Courses for Success have great topics of interest which make you come back for
more.
Thank you Courses for Success for being part of my learning journey and making education affordable!"

Our
completion certificates are very valuable and will help you progress in
your work environment and show employers how committed you are to learn
new skills, you might even get a promotion.

18.  Will this course be credited by universities?

No, it is not equivalent to a college or university credit.

19.  Am I guaranteed to get a job with this certificate?

This course will give you the skills you need to help you obtain employment, but it’s up to you if you get the job or not.

20.  How will this course assist me with my career?

Studying
and completing this course will show employers that you have the
knowledge in this field, additionally you will gain more confidence in
this area of expertise.

21.  How long is the certificate valid for?

The Certificates are valid for life and do not need renewing. 

22.  Can I take more than one course at a time?

Courses
are studied online at your own pace and you are free to study as many
or as few courses as you wish, we also offer online course bundles that
allow you to save on additional courses so that you may get all the
topics related to your training goals in one go.

23.  What are the Payment Methods available? Is there a payment plan?

We accept payments via PayPal, Credit Card and Bank Transfer.

Payment Plans: We have partnered with Partial.ly, to offer our own in house payment plan. Everyone is Pre-Approved, providing the initial deposit is paid in full.

To pay via bank transfer contact us info@coursesforsuccess.com

24.  Can I purchase for multiple people?

Yes, you can do this by purchasing individually via website or send us a request via email at info@coursesforsuccess.com

25.  Can I request for an invoice before purchase?

Yes, you can request for an invoice via email at info@coursesforsuccess.com

26.  Purchase for a gift?

Yes, you can purchase this course as a gift, simply send an email to info@coursesforsuccess.com, with the course details and we can accommodate this.

27.  Can I create my own course bundle?

Yes,
you can customize your own bundle. Please send us the complete list
with the exact course link of the courses you'd like to bundle up via
email info@coursesforsuccess.com and we will create them for you. *Each course access, time of completion and certification varies depending on the course type.

28.  How will I contact Courses For Success if I have any questions?

You can contact our support team, at any time through live chat on our website, or email at info@coursesforsuccess.com, or by calling one of our phone numbers depending on which country you are in.  

Free Personal Success Training Course

The Personal Success Training Program Helps You Stay Focused To Achieve Your Goals!

This month, we are providing it for Free with all Course Purchases, as a special offer!

Benefits:

• How to layout a Success Plan.

• Get where you want to be in life.

• How to unclutter your mind to succeed.

• Achieve your dreams using your imagination.

• How to have faith in yourself.

Features:

• Life time access

• Complement your individual course purchase.

• Click here Personal Success Training Program to see thousands of positive reviews,

Hurry - offer - ends this month!

Course Bundles

Looking for specific training for yourself or employees. Choose from our Course Bundles below or build you own Bundle, by adding more courses to your cart. Choose different courses or the same course for multiple staff members and receive volume discounts at checkout.

Course Bundles