If you are considering becoming an herbalist it is important to understand what herbalists legally can and cannot do. 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, and there is no certification for herbalists. 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.

Note that because the field of herbalism is not officially regulated by any specific set of standards or governing body in the U.S., certification is a tricky subject. 

While one can study in herbalism courses for a certificate of completion, one cannot become a “certified herbalist.” We discuss this topic a bit in this article, which you may find helpful: https://theherbalacademy.com/can-you-really-become-a-certified-herbalist/

Upon completion of any of our courses, you’ll receive a certificate of completion suitable for framing that states you’ve completed the course under the direction of the Herbal Academy. You will receive a certificate after successfully completing each individual course.

Given the current rights of herbalists and how herbal education is obtained, working with a school that provides a certificate of completion is likely to be acceptable to most folks. Also, it is good to keep in mind that many of the most regarded herbalists, such as Rosemary Gladstar are self-taught! This article might be helpful for you to read in answering some of your questions about this topic.

We do our best here at the Academy to provide a thorough and sound education. We are listed as a school on the American Herbalists Guild site which may be helpful if you are talking with someone about your education in the future. You can also share the Team Page with this person where they can see the educators who have come together to teach you.

Please note that our courses provide a thorough foundation, but 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. Our Clinical Path will give you a very solid foundation from which to specialize if you wish, pursue a hands-on mentorship opportunity and additional studies as you move forward on your path.

You can also read more here.