What is herbal medicine?
Herbal medicine is the use of plant-based remedies in order to treat patients and ensure the optimal functions of the different organ systems in their bodies. Other types of Herbal medicine include Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Indian Ayurvedic Medicine.
Herbalists take a holistic approach to mental and physical wellbeing by prescribing plant-based medicines that improve the overall state of the body instead of only treating the symptom. The treatments used by herbalists will depend on the patient's lifestyle, medical history and nutrition levels. Herbal medicine is an effective treatment to help people dealing with:
- Allergies
- Arthritis
- Chronic fatigue
- Colds and flu
- Digestive issues
- Eczema and skin problems
- Hay fever and asthma
- Headaches and migraines
- Insomnia and other sleep problems
- Mood disorders
- Menopausal symptoms
- Stress
After completing your studies in herbal medicine will be eligible to apply for membership with these professional associations:
- National Herbalists Association of Australia (NHAA)
- Western Herbal Medicine accreditation
- Australian Natural Therapists Association (ANTA)
- Australian Register of Naturopaths and Herbalists (ARONAH)
Should you complete a herbal medicine course?
A career in herbal medicine is perfect for anyone passionate about health and wellness and a willingness to help others feel better so that they can succeed in all areas of their lives. To be successful in your studies and career, you must possess these skills:
- A passion for natural therapies and willingness to learn about biology, anatomy, medicinal plants and herbal treatments.
- An attentive listener when interviewing and assessing client history and needs so that you can adjust treatments accordingly.
- High attention to detail when preparing and administering tailored herbal remedies.
- Analytical and observant when determining the best treatment for patients.
- High levels of integrity of clients' privacy by keeping any personal and medical information private.
If this sounds like you, read on to learn more about your course options in herbal medicine.
What are the course and study options for herbalists in Melbourne?
If you want to gain some insight into herbal medicine and career opportunities many herbal medicine schools offer weekend workshops or seminars. This is a great chance for you to determine if herbal medicine is the right course for you before you commit to a long-term qualification.
To become an accredited herbalist, you need an advanced diploma or bachelor’s degree in Health Science with a major in Western herbal medicine from an accredited school in Melbourne. These are formally recognised qualifications by Australia's peak bodies for herbalists. Most accredited herbal medicine schools in Melbourne offer flexible options to accommodate your commitments. They can be completed on-campus, online or through a blended learning system.
In these courses, you will be introduced to a range of topics such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, botany, herbal medicine, herbal therapeutics and pharmacy. Teachers will also go over practical skills such as clinical practices and communicating with clients in health settings.
If you're all set out to chase your dream job, the Natural Therapy Pages is more than ready to ease the process for you by providing you with a comprehensive list of herbal medicine courses in Melbourne. You can enquire with them to find out more information about their course duration, curriculum and payment plans.
What happens after you complete your herbal medicine course in Melbourne?
By completing a course in herbal medicine, you'll be able to become a certified herbalist with the Australian Register of Naturopaths and Herbalists (ARONAH) which allows you to kickstart your career in herbal medicine.
Most herbalists begin their careers working with a team of herbal medicine practitioners in a specialist health clinic or herbal dispensary. After gaining some experience, you can become self-employed by starting your own private practice where you can set your own hours and manage your business and even have the opportunity to list your services on Natural Therapy Pages.
Finally, the process of learning and expanding your knowledge within the herbal medicine field does not stop after you get your first qualification. By pursuing further education it will allow you to specialise in a specific area of herbal medicine.
