A licensed herbalist is a professional who uses herbs and plants for their healing and restorative properties. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), "Herbal medicine, also called botanical medicine or phytomedicine, refers to the use of a plant's seeds, berries, roots, leaves, bark, or flowers for medicinal purposes. Long practiced outside of conventional medicine, herbalism is becoming more mainstream." While there isn't a nationally recognized licensing program for herbalists, studying at an accredited school and gaining their certification will help you on your career path. Many herbalists practice under the supervision of a licensed physician or other health care provider.
Decide what type of herbalist you would like to be. You can specialize in a variety of areas including home remedies, herb gardening, women's health, aromatherapy or herbal nutrition and eventually seek out a career as a practitioner, educator, researcher, writer, consultant, grower or retailer.
Determine how much education you would like to pursue. Are you looking for a certificate program or a full degree? Many schools offer a variety of classes. Some schools offer classes by long distance learning, others offer on-site classes.
Learn biology. Any herbalist will benefit greatly from a basic education in this life science. If there is not a herb program near you, you could take classes first at your local college or online in biology, botany and other sciences
Study and read about herbs on your own to prepare you for your studies. The more you learn about herbs and their abilities, the more comfortable you will be talking about them and eventually using them. You might try to make up basic teas and other home remedies on your own.
Consider an apprenticeship. Apprenticing with a well-practiced herbalist will give you the experience you need and the chance to get comfortable with clients without having to hang out a shingle.
Join a trade association like the American Herbalists Guild. While there is not a federal or state government requirement for professional licensing, joining such a guild will give you the title of Registered Herbalist.