This is such a great article, and I enjoyed listening to you discuss this in the recent book club. I think this is a fascinating question that I think a lot about in my work as a birth and death doula (where I use herbs for my clients, but don't feel qualified to call myself an herbalist). Like traditional midwifery which has had a long and sordid regulatory history (there are brilliant unlicensed midwifes operating at great legal jeopardy to themselves in NC where I live).
The challenge I find for doula's, herbalists, and even midwives, is that when you want to learn the traditional way through apprenticeship, it can be hard to find a willing teacher! I had an herbalist mentor who rapidly declined and died in 2024. Otherwise, I'm self taught but considering an herbalism school - are you willing to share your thoughts/recommendations on the options out there for training?
It is a challenge these days to find a traditional apprenticeship though I'd keep the possibility open in your heart and mind because you never know! Those types of situations are not something you can look up as I mentioned and as I'm sure you know. They happen through synchronicity or coincidence or divine intervention, haha.
Meanwhile my recommendations for herbal training. All have online and in-person offerings:
All of the above work from a bioregional perspective and practice similarly to the way I do. We share some of the same teachers and hold similar values.
This is such a great article, and I enjoyed listening to you discuss this in the recent book club. I think this is a fascinating question that I think a lot about in my work as a birth and death doula (where I use herbs for my clients, but don't feel qualified to call myself an herbalist). Like traditional midwifery which has had a long and sordid regulatory history (there are brilliant unlicensed midwifes operating at great legal jeopardy to themselves in NC where I live).
The challenge I find for doula's, herbalists, and even midwives, is that when you want to learn the traditional way through apprenticeship, it can be hard to find a willing teacher! I had an herbalist mentor who rapidly declined and died in 2024. Otherwise, I'm self taught but considering an herbalism school - are you willing to share your thoughts/recommendations on the options out there for training?
Thanks Lisa!
Hi Susan,
It is a challenge these days to find a traditional apprenticeship though I'd keep the possibility open in your heart and mind because you never know! Those types of situations are not something you can look up as I mentioned and as I'm sure you know. They happen through synchronicity or coincidence or divine intervention, haha.
Meanwhile my recommendations for herbal training. All have online and in-person offerings:
Jade Alicandro: https://www.milkandhoneyherbs.com
Lupo Passero and Twin Star (Lupo is in Asheville but some of her courses happen in CT): https://www.twinstartribe.com
Janet Kent and Dave Meesters (they're in NC!): https://www.terrasylvaschool.com
All of the above work from a bioregional perspective and practice similarly to the way I do. We share some of the same teachers and hold similar values.
Thank you, Lisa! Synchronicity indeed--I've been eyeing Terra Sylva for a few years now. This feels like a strong headwind in that direction!