Expert: Education Advisor - 12/3/2007

Question
Tandi-
I am looking for an herbal program that would give me the knowledge to work in an herb shop.  Right now I'm not looking to run a place of my own, or do in-depth client consultation - I may decide that later on. So I don't feel I necessarily need an "accredited" school.  But I want a really good foundation in herbs. I've looked at Clayton, Global College, Michael Tierra's East West Professional Herbalist Course, Christopher Hobb's Foundations of Herbalism and a couple of others.  I would love to hear your opinion.  Thank you. - Diane

Answer
In my opinion the best herbalist program is The School of Natural Healing, they offer a Master Herbalist program that I believe is one of the best programs.  You can find information on the school at:  www.snh.cc

This is the program that The University of Natural Medicine uses as well because it is such a great program.  

Clayton College has a pretty good program in herbal studies as well.  You also obtain a Master Herbalist designation.

Global college would not be my first choice, but I think it is a fairly good foundational course, they do offer a master herbalist program, I believe the other programs are more indepth.

I have actually taken a live class from Michael Tierra, he is a very knowledgeable herbalist.  I would choose The School of Natural Healing, the university of natural medicine or clayton college before Michael Tierra's program.

There are some good herbal medicine courses and there are great courses.  It really depends on the quality of the program and the breadth of knowledge you gain.

You are correct, it does not need to be an accredited school.  Even though you may only want a basic foundation now, I still believe it is important to choose a high quality school that will give you quality education.  The more you know and learn the better.

Hopefully that is helpful and good luck with your herbal studies.