| Spa Wellness Articles :: Program Descriptions & Career Overviews :: Herbal Medicine Studies - Herbal Medicine Programs |
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| Herbal Medicine Studies - Herbal Medicine Programs |
| by CB Staff |
Herbal medicine is the practice of using plants and their extracts to soothe and cure human ailments. Although herbal medicine was developed by many different cultures over thousands of years, today it is most closely associated with traditional Chinese medicine. It is important to note that herbal medicine is not a government-approved or regulated medical practice, and thus should not be used as a primary form of diagnosis. What You'll Learn By exploring herbal medicine studies , you'll learn what plants and extracts can be used to treat ailments and promote general well-being. Depending on the herbal medicine course, you may also learn how to grow and pick your own herbs, and even create herbal-based products. At the culmination of an herbal medicine program, you should have acquired enough information so as to safely consul clients on the effective and correct use of herbal remedies. Degree Types At this time, there are no established herbal medicine degrees and/or certificates that can be earned in this emerging holistic field. However, many Alternative Medicine schools do offer herbal medicine courses either alone or as part of a larger Massage therapy, Acupuncture, or naturopathic healing curriculum. Career Paths Although it is possible to begin a career as an herbalist, it is more common to integrate knowledge of herbal medicine into careers in fields such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and naturopathic healing. As an herbalist you can specialize in advising clients, growing herbs, and/or manufacturing products based upon herbal medicine. Job Outlook As people increasingly turn to acupuncture, massage, and alternative forms of health care, it can be expected that career opportunities for herbalists and those trained in herbal medicine, will also grow. Licensing and Accreditation Information No licensing or accrediting bodies are currently associated with the teaching or approval of herbal medicine. There are, however, various professional groups that may grant their own level of certification to eligible applicants. Because herbs are considered dietary supplements, it is necessary to comply with government restrictions on food during both their production and distribution. It is recommended that you consult with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and American Herbal Products Association as you embark on your herbal career.
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