Herbalist : Training

Once herbalists have qualified as members of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists (NIMH) , they must take part in the NIMH Initial Professional Development Programme (IPDP). This programme is compulsory for all new members and covers:

• induction - what being a professional/member of a professional body entails;
• development - continuing professional development (CPD) and establishing a practice;
• support - mentoring and practice/practice management support.

Following completion of the IPDP, all NIMH members are required to carry out ongoing CPD. Activities include attendance at NIMH conferences and seminars to update clinical skills and therapeutic knowledge. There are also research opportunities available for members.

Alternatively, qualified herbalists might want to consider joining mixed therapy organisations such as the Institute for Complementary and Natural Medicine (ICNM) , which administers the British Register of Complementary Practitioners (BRCP), or the British Complementary Medicine Association (BCMA) . Please see their websites for conditions of membership.

Much of a herbalist's education takes place throughout clinical practice and grows with experience of both patients and plants. In addition, herbalists must develop their knowledge continuously by keeping up to date with new research, legislation and studies on plants and herbal medicines.

Training courses are also available on the various practical aspects of running a business. However, learning to manage a practice takes time and effort. Commitment to developing a role in which, for the short and medium term, salary levels and numbers of clients may be low, is essential.