As an herbalist you will want to choose a term that accurately reflects your level of education and experience. If you've completed foundational courses and practice herbalism in the realm of caring for your family than that may be an appropriate term. Legally in the United States herbalists are allowed to use any terms to describe themselves as there is not a licensing board for herbalists; this may differ depending on the country. So it is incumbent on each person to take it upon ourselves to gain the education and experience that supports the way we are representing our skills as an herbalist - in short, the onus is on us to be diligent in doing so, both for our own reputations and the safety and benefit of our clients or customers, if we have them!

As you continue in your education and endeavor into practice as an herbalist it is important to understand what herbalists legally can and cannot do. In the United States, as herbalists we cannot see patients or practice as this would be construed as practicing medicine, however we can see clients. In the United States, there is no certifying body in herbalism like there is for medical doctors. Herbalists' right to practice and educate clients is protected by our right to free speech under the First Amendment. We can educate clients on how to use healthful food, lifestyle practices, and herbs to support wellness and correct imbalance so the body can heal itself, but we cannot treat, cure, prescribe as medical doctors can. We discuss this topic a bit in this article, which you may find helpful: https://theherbalacademy.com/can-you-really-become-a-certified-herbalist/

And note that our courses provide a thorough foundation, however you will need hands-on clinical training with an experienced mentor before seeing clients, and even additional training. Many practicing herbalists take multiple training programs before consulting with clients/community members.