HERBALIST JOB

Herbalists use their knowledge of plant medicines and their therapeutic applications to relieve illness and promote health. Herbal medicine, also known as phototherapy, is a holistic health system that aims to address the needs of patients by working at a physical, physiological and emotional level. Herbalists treat a range of illnesses, allergies and chronic physical conditions by using the whole plant, part of the plant (such as the leaf), or a preparation of the plant, in order to maximize the human body's healing capacities.

Modern herbal medicine combines traditional herbal philosophy and knowledge with modern medical understanding. Typical activities include carrying out initial consultations with patients to diagnose a condition or illness (usually including a physical examination, blood pressure and pulse readings and a series of detailed questions covering all the systems of the body, and sometimes also observation and assessment of a patient's body language and other factors).using knowledge of plant remedies to prescribe appropriate medicines to treat a wide range of illnesses.

With the aim of assisting the body's own healing efforts (sometimes including growing, preparing and producing herbal medicines),referring patients to other health practitioners, where appropriate, using a holistic approach to advise patients on diet and lifestyle, undertaking follow-up appointments to assess patient progress, maintaining accurate patient records, being on call to patients, either in person or over the phone, working to high ethical and professional standards, maintaining a welcoming, professional practice area, particularly if working from home.

Teaching and supporting trainee herbalists, keeping up to date with new research and the study of herbs and plants. Most herbalists are self-employed. This brings with it all the activities involved with managing a business, which includes: marketing services to potential patients and establishing a practice, managing budgeting and tax, maintaining levels of stock. Experienced herbalists may also work on a consultancy or employed basis, undertaking research for herbal growers and product manufacturers.