Could someone clarify things about naturopathy, being an herbalist, and homeopathy please?

Question

I have recently become interested in these different areas, but have little knowledge. I may one day like to take classes and such but I do not know what each area consists of and about licensure and requirements too.

Answer 1

I'm currently enrolled @ Clayton College of Natural Health

www.ccnh.edu

I wish I would have done my school homework before choosing this college.

Go on-line, check out trade magazines.

Answer 2

What's your GPA?  If it's high enough you'll be able to get into real medical school.

Answer 3

A herbalist  is someone that works with herbs, not necessarily a health practitioner.  

A Homeopath is trained to treat like with like.  

A Naturopath looks at the whole person and will use therapies that may include herbs and homeopathic remedies.   For ex. my naturopath has treated me with herbs, vitamins, homeopathic remedies, acupunture and modified diet.

Answer 4

I am currently a 2nd year student at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Arizona.  You can find a wealth of information about the profession on this website http://www.naturopathic.org/

In the USA there is no national licensure for naturopathic physicians (ND's), instead it is per state.  Currently I believe there are 15 states that offer licensure for ND's and this number grows every year.  The schooling is a 4 year medical program at an accredited college of Naturopathic medicine.  There are 4 of these schools in the USA (SCNM, NCNM, Bastyr, Bridgeport).  This is medical school and the degree is a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine.  I hope this helps.