What is an Herbalist?

Herbalists are people who study and work with plants to support human health and wellbeing. For thousands of years, cultures around the world have relied on plant knowledge as a foundation of community care. Today, herbalists continue this tradition by studying botany, traditional plant uses, preparation methods, and the relationship between people and the ecosystems around them.

Herbal practice can take many forms. Some herbalists focus on growing medicinal plants and teaching others how to work with them safely. Others prepare herbal products such as teas, tinctures, salves, or hydrosols. Some practitioners offer one-on-one consultations to help individuals explore plant-based approaches to wellness and lifestyle support.

Because herbalism is rooted in many cultural traditions and educational pathways, herbalists may come from a wide range of backgrounds. Training may include apprenticeships, clinical herbal programs, traditional lineage teachings, horticulture, community health work, or self-directed study combined with years of practical experience.

While herbalists support wellness and share plant knowledge, herbal practice is not the same as practicing medicine. Herbalists do not diagnose disease, prescribe pharmaceutical drugs, or replace licensed medical care. Instead, herbalists often work alongside other health professionals, offering education about plants and supporting individuals in making informed choices about their wellbeing.

Many herbalists also serve as land stewards and educators, helping communities reconnect with the plants that grow around them. This work may include plant walks, gardening, seed saving, ethical wildcrafting, and teaching about traditional plant relationships.

At its heart, herbalism is about relationship — between people, plants, land, and community.