Career Overview
Herbal medicine is can be practiced by itself or as a complimentary field to many other therapies. A large group of health and wellness professionals can incorporate herbalism into their practice. Acupuncturists, chiropractors, naturopathic doctors, nutritionists, massage therapists and estheticians can all benefit from providing herbalism services and products.
Career Outlook
An increasing demand is expected for herbalists and herbal medicine practitioners. More and more people are looking for alternative therapies making herbal medicine a desirable option for many. In addition, scientific research has proven herbal medicine beneficial on many instances, for example, the heart medicine digitalis was developed from the foxglove plant. The World Health Organization, WHO, reports that herbal medicines generate billions of dollars in revenue.
Herbal medicine career options include:
- Manufacturing of herbal products
- Growing of herbs for sale to manufacturers
- Own retail stores
- Counseling others about herbal products
- Teaching herbal medicine
- Complimentary therapy provided within another wellness profession
Many herbalists are self-employed.
Herbalist Jobs
Typically only a few positions are advertized through classified ads or on the internet. An effective way to find open jobs is to network. Attend relevant conferences, join professional groups in the field and get to know herbalists in your area.
If you’re interested in holistic natural therapies and traditional remedies, then herbalist certification program may be right choice for you.