How to Learn About Herbal Medicine

Herbal medicine is the practice of incorporating and utilizing natural ingredients such as herbs, minerals, plants and roots for their inherent healing and medicinal properties. Understanding the nuances and specific use for each of the common and unusual herbs that are available takes time and an attention to detail. Learning about herbal medicine is a process that takes many years to master. Because herbs have the ability to have adverse effects on certain people and pre-existing medical conditions, learning about herbals treatments is necessary.

Things You'll Need

• Reference book on herbal medicines

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Instructions

• 1

  Research herbal medicine. There is a vast number of books about herbal medicine and treating conditions and ailments. Make notes regarding information that you want to highlight and keep a notebook. Read medical journal reports and papers regarding herbs and their medicinal uses.

• 2

  Attend a class on herbal medicine. Check local community colleges, community recreation centers, health and fitness clubs, nutritionists and wellness centers. Sign up and attend all classes. Collect handouts provided at all classes and store with your books and notes on the subject. Ask those teaching the class for guidance on additional books, materials or classes to continue your education.

• 3

  Talk to an herbalist. Ask to speak to them in person to inquire about their profession and how they trained to understand the subject of herbal medicine. Ask the herbalist for book, class, course and reference material suggestions to further your education. See Resources section for contact information for the American Herbalists Guild, which maintains an active member listing on their website.

• 4

  Join a sanctioned chapter of the American Herbalist Guild or inquire about associate membership options for those new to studying herbal medicine. Attend classes, workshops and other events hosted by the chapter to further your education.