Learning About the Healing Power of Western Herbal Medicine

Read Time:3 Minute, 42 Second

Traditional knowledge of Western herbal medicine (WCM) supports experiential methods of healing which have developed over the centuries. For instance, an English herbalist may recommend teas, oils, or potencies as part of a bodywork remedy. A Chinese herbalist might use acupuncture needles as part of a digestive system treatment. An Indian herbalist would not only look for a remedy that will address the individual’s symptoms, but also restore the body’s natural balance through the balancing of the various systems of the body.

An Overview

Text, letter

Traditional knowledge regarding the curative properties of herbs goes way back to the Babylonian era. From these writings we derive the medicinal herbs used in many of today’s modern medications. Some of the remedies recommended by early peoples were considered highly effective for treating even the most serious conditions. Unfortunately, our doctors still do not consider many of these herbal medicines to be of benefit in today’s scientific arena. As a result, western herbal medicine is still a viable option for healing the body’s ills.

Today, there are a number of paths available to those who are interested in learning more about western herbal medicine. The first step is to gain some basic training from a trained practitioner. This will provide the student with the knowledge necessary to begin exploring the uses of such remedies. Learning about the healing powers of such medicines as plants and herbal remedies, as well as how to utilize them for treatment is also essential.

Certified Herbalist

A vase of flowers sitting on top of a wooden table

After becoming a certified herbalist, you can then begin your education toward a phytotherapeutic program. Phytotherapy, or the use of herbal medicines, is an essential part of this course. Your education will introduce you to the uses and benefits of phytotherapy for treating any condition, including chronic illnesses. You will also learn the benefits associated with using such treatments as an alternative to traditional medicine. This training will also prepare you to teach others about the benefits of western herbal medicine.

Once you have completed your phytotherapy coursework, you will be ready to open your own practice. Your practice should incorporate elements of both traditional knowledge and modern herbal medicine. Your patients may come to you for treatments that involve the application of plant material, such as herbal remedies. At the same time, you may work with a combination of both types of treatments. In either case, your ability to combine traditional knowledge with modern technology should greatly enhance the effectiveness of your service.

Maintain Practice

In addition to maintaining your own private practice, you can also open up a medical clinic. If this seems like a task you are able to accomplish, Google Scholars will help you find support. The website helps you determine eligibility to conduct clinical studies in various medical areas. Once you have completed the required studies, you will be ready to apply for a grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). To qualify, you must demonstrate that you have experience using a specific type of western herbal medicine in treating the symptoms of a particular disease.

When applying to the funding program for the clinical study of western herbal medicine, you will need to demonstrate that you are an effective healer and that you offer the highest quality of healing. You must be willing to take on a challenge, both personally and professionally. If you exhibit these characteristics, Google Scholars will provide you with the tools you need to complete your studies. In addition to helping you obtain the funds you need to conduct your studies, the website offers advice and guidance for learning how to become an effective healer yourself.

Conclusion

In the next article, we will take a look at some of the ways in which herbs are used in modern western medicine. As you learn more about the process of healing with plant parts, you will begin to see how herbs are essential to the practice of medicine. There is a multitude of uses for natural plant parts and when properly combined, they can do amazing things. From a simple cough syrup to the most advanced cancer fighting compounds, there are many different constituents that can be found in herbs. The next time you sit down to relax and meditate, think about all of the ways you could benefit from knowing a little more about the natural healing properties of your favorite herbs. You might just find yourself incorporating these plant parts into your own practice!