How can I become an herbalist?

Question

Basically I have no formal education.My mother was a reflexologist and I spent my whole life learning about herbs and using herbs to heal myself,family and freinds.Now I mix up my own concoctions.Im also bilingual.I would really love to become an herbalist but would like to know how to find a school that would except someone like me with basically no diploma just homeschooled.I would love to help alot more people than I can now and to learn alot more.I am also dyslexic.

Answer 1

There really is not a license for herbalism in the U.S. Certain professional practice acts, like acupuncture, allow for the practice of herbalism if you have formal training in herbs. While practicing herbalism without a medical license was getting people put in jail back in the '80's, there hasn't been much harassment lately.

Look for an herb school that is respected by other herbalists. Something like the mail order degree from Clayton School will only get laughs from health professionals. Google the 'herbalist guild', and see what they are recommending. There is herbal training and certificate course work you can do without your GED.

Answer 2

Many colleges have degree and/or diploma programs for herbalism, plus some by-mail courses also have the programs available as well. However, for any of the advanced degrees/diplomas, most legitimate colleges require that you at least have your GED, so you will likely need to get that first.

On the plus side, if you have a disability (dyslexia), you can often get help (learning to overcome it, more time on the test, or other things that may be needed). I'd check with whichever school can grant GEDs in your area and ask their counselor's office if they can help you with that. Good luck!