How is the training of a professional herbalist similar to that of a Western physician?

Herbalism

Herbalists are specialized CAM practitioners who accumulate extensive knowledge of botanical sources and their proper applications. Professional herbalists maintain a distinct status, undergoing rigorous training as apprentices and gaining immense experience in identifying and preparing organic treatments. Herbalism, as with any healing practice, must observe the impact of treatment on specialized groups.

Based on the above statements, answer the following questions:

· How is the training of a professional herbalist similar to that of a Western physician?

· What are the differences between allopathic pharmacists and professional herbalists?

· Herbalism is sometimes cited as the precursor to modern pharmacy. Is this statement accurate? Justify.

· What is a potential danger of the lack of communication between herbalists and allopathic physicians concerning mutual patient safety?

· What caveats must exist when treating pregnant or breast-feeding women with herbal therapies?

· Parents may feel that herbal medicine is a safer remedy for their children. Is this supported by the herbalists and CAM practitioners?

· Why is herb use for the elderly a particularly important point of discussion for patients and practitioners?

· Have you ever experienced an allergy to a particular plant? How do such allergic reactions factor into herbal therapy practice?

 

Solution Preview

How is the training of a professional herbalist similar to that of a Western physician?
Professional herbalist must receive training and graduated from an accredited training school with minimum of hours training just like medical school for physician. Professional herbalists must pass an examination that assess knowledge and practice techniques. They must have knowledge of ethical and professional standards.

What are the differences between allopathic pharmacists and professional herbalists?
Allopathic pharmacist are medical people to practice Western medicine, evidence based medicine or modern medicine. They are directly involved in the management of winter, illnesses such as influenza like illness to ear, nose and throat disorders.

Professional herbalists practice traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). TCM is the oldest, professional medicine in the world. Professional herbalists used TCM to address the body, mind, and spirit. Diagnoses and treatment in TCM are focused on patient as a whole person, and less on the system. Professional herbalists use natural medicine and methods in diagnoses and treatment.

Herbalism is sometimes cited as the precursor to modern pharmacy. Is this statement accurate? Justify.
The statement is not accurate; herbalism is a “traditional medicinal or folk medicine practice based on the use of plants and plant extracts. Herbalism is known as “botanical medicine, medical herbalism, herbal medicine, herbology, and…