Job Opportunities as a Master Herbalist

Alternative medicine is being used by more and more Americans. Why then when the AMA gives alternative medicine such negative reviews are patient visits to alternative medicine doctors increasing not decreasing.

The April 15, 1998 Journal of the American Medical Association reported that there are more than 2,000,000 drug "reactions" annually in the United States, and that more than 100,000 of those reactions are fatal. This makes prescription drugs the 4th leading cause of death in America. There are thousands of deaths per annum from hospital contracted staph infections, medical errors, and operation errors.

The use of herbal and alternative medicine is safer with fewer side effects. The main goal in alternative medicine is to get to the basic cause of the imbalance not just get rid of symptoms. Herbs have many beneficial effects on the body. Herbs support and strengthen the systems of the body such as the immune system. They help to restore the balance to the body and the integrity of the organs and tissues. They may help to detoxify and clean up the blood, lymphatic system, and intestines. Some herbs support heart and circulation. They must be used for the right purpose and in the right way so that is why you need education. Education is power to direct your own health and wellness.

Why become a Master Herbalist?

The first reason to become a Master Herbalist is to help yourself and your loved ones. The more you know, the more you can direct your own path to healing. In this country, the AMA and FDA restrict the information given on herbs and vitamins. When you read the label on an herbal supplement, you don't get much that helps you know what to take it for and how to take it other than a general sentence or two. It is up to you to educate yourself in herbal medicine so that you use each herb correctly. If you have this knowledge, you will be able to help yourself and loved ones to stay healthier and to live longer.

Why educate myself when I can ask a store clerk advice?

The clerk by law is not supposed to give you any advice at the store. The clerk can get fired and the store fined if caught giving medical advice. They will direct you usually to a book carried at the store to look it up yourself. The store salesman may have a background in Alternative medicine or may only be instructed on their line of supplements. The clerks job is to sell herbs and vitamins. If they have a line that is selling poorly, their role is to move that product. You cannot depend on a store salesman to give you advice or direction on herbs. Some do but they risk getting in trouble by the manager.

What career opportunities are available as a Master Herbalist?

Opportunities might include working for an herb company helping them to develop new formulations or help them to market those supplements. Some Master Herbalists work as a nutritional and herbal consultant privately or in their own herb store. There are jobs available in alternative medicine clinics as well. Perhaps you are more interested in writing articles, giving classes, or teaching in adult education or at a college.

Where are some areas that are thriving with job opportunities in holistic medicine?

Prescott Arizona , Arizona including Flagstaff, Chandler, Scottsdale, Sedona, Mesa, Phoenix, San Diego, Colorado Springs, CO,

References:

http://www.arizonalinks.net/Arizona_Alternative_Medicine.htm

http://www.life-enthusiast.com/company/medicine_record_2.htm