About the Course
This distance learning course teaches the safe and effective use of basic Western Herbs to those who are already working in healthcare. It includes information on the principles of herbal medicine, the actions of a number of medicinal and culinary herbs and possible interactions between different herbs and prescription medication commonly used by the general public. After completing this course, students should have enough information to confidently offer recommendations for herbs as an adjunct to their existing practice. It will not provide the depth of
knowledge required to achieve full practitioner status. Although IHS are happy to open this course to non practitioners, a certified knowledge of Anatomy & Physiology is required.
The course format is modular allowing you to direct the progress of your learning. Structured home study allows you to complete each module in the comfort of your own home, at your own pace. Mutually agreed goals and milestones ensure that you will remain focused while still allowing you flexibility.
As a student you will be assigned a personal tutor to guide and mentor you through the programme. Online tutorials are provided so that you receive the support that you need.
This course has been awarded continuous development points by the following professional organisations:

Nutritional Therapists of Ireland (NTOI) - 15 hours CPD
Irish Assoc. for Craniosacral Therapy (IACST) - 100 CPD Points
National Register of Reflexologists - 100 CPD Points
Overview
This course includes information on the principles of herbal medicine and teaches the actions of some herbs commonly used by the general public. It does not cover all herbs commonly used by practitioners of herbal medicine. After completing this course, students should have enough information to confidently offer recommendations for herbs as an adjunct to their existing modalities practiced. It will also provide information on the interactions between certain herbs and prescription medication. It will not provide the depth of knowledge required to achieve full practitioner status or for students to combine and prepare their own herbal formulae.
Click here to view Lecture Plan
Students who successfully complete this course will:
- Understand the philosophy of Western Herbal Medicine
Differentiate herbal philosophy from those of other herbal practices
Understand basic plant anatomy and physiology
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Be able to identify the role of various active constituents in common herbs
Demonstrate and awareness of safety issues involved with recommending herbal medicine
Contraindications, herb-drug interactions and suitability for pregnancy
Identify herbs that are safely and commonly used to treat various common health conditions
Be able to offer sound basic herbal medicine advice and recommend herbal remedies available over the counter
Entry Requirements
This is a lifelong learning course and students are accepted on to this course through a combination of academic qualifications and relevant life experience. Ideally the applicant will have a qualification in another alternative therapy.
It is also important that the applicant has a soild foundation of Anatomy and Physiology before starting this course. Each non-standard applicant will be interviewed to determine their suitability for the course.
How to Apply

Training is an investment in your future. As with any investment it is important to identify what you wish to gain and which course will be most suitable for your needs. The Institute staff will spend time speaking with you to ensure you have all the information you need to make the right decision. We recommend you attend one of our regular open evenings to find out more about the course structure, content and career opportunities.
To enrol you will need to complete the application form and return this along with a deposit to the address below.
Registrations
Institute of Health Sciences
Kilnanare
Firies
Killarney
County Kerry
Ireland.
To receive an application in the post call 090 9749929. Alternatively you can email: info@instituteofhealthsciences.com stating your name, telephone number and the course you are applying for.
If you would like IHS to contact you please fill out our online contact form and a staff member will get in touch with you within 24hours.