The Registered Herbalist (RH) credential confirms that a clinical herbalist has demonstrated the herbal knowledge, clinical skills, and professional judgment required for safe and effective clinical practice. Applicants must demonstrate competency in all areas outlined here through the application process. For complete application requirements, see Registered Herbalist Application Criteria.
- Understand the safety considerations for each herb they recommend, including actions, energetics, contraindications, herb-drug interactions, dosing, and client-specific risks.
- Develop individualized herbal formulas using appropriate preparation methods while demonstrating knowledge of pharmacology, energetics, dosage, duration of use, and cautions.
- Recognize situations that fall outside their scope of practice and make appropriate referrals based on an understanding of basic pathophysiology and an established referral network.
- Conduct thorough client intakes and develop differential assessments based on health history and clinical findings, and keep detailed records of all client interactions.
- Develop and modify individualized herbal protocols drawing on a working knowledge of a materia medica of at least 150 herbs.
- Evaluate the quality of herbs and commercial herbal products, considering sourcing, sustainability, preparation methods, and product quality.
- Critically assess scientific literature, clinical research, and other professional resources, and appropriately integrate evidence into their clinical practice.
- Develop holistic wellness plans that include appropriate lifestyle recommendations aligned with their differential assessments and recommended herbal protocols.
- Conduct timely follow-up assessments and adjust herbal protocols based on client progress.
- Educate clients about their health concerns, recommended herbal protocols, lifestyle choices, and supportive self-care practices.
- Practice in accordance with the American Herbalists Guild’s Registered Herbalist Code of Ethics.
To apply for the Registered Herbalist designation, applicants must complete and be prepared to document the following:
- A minimum of 800 hours of education in the therapeutic use of herbs that meet AHG’s Herbal Educational Guidelines.
- Clinical experience consulting with at least 80 individual clients within a five-year period.
- Working knowledge of a materia medica of at least 150 herbs and their use in clinical practice.
- Three complex case studies drawn from their practice that demonstrate clinical reasoning and the ability to provide individualized herbal protocols, each with at least two follow-up visits.
- Two letters of recommendation from qualified herbal practitioners who can attest to the applicant’s clinical knowledge and professional practice.
- A referral network that includes at least three qualified healthcare professionals for referrals to address conditions that fall outside the herbalist’s scope of practice.
Applicants are also expected to be able to:
- Critically evaluate scientific and clinical research and apply relevant findings to their clinical practice.
- Communicate effectively and professionally with clients, colleagues, and other healthcare practitioners.
- Demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning through continuing education, research, teaching, mentoring, or public education.
- For more details on the education and practice requirements needed to apply, see Registered Herbalist Applicant Criteria.