Herbal medicine has played a central role in health and wellbeing across cultures for centuries. As the demand for natural and holistic approaches to healthcare continues to grow, the need for qualified professionals in herbalism becomes increasingly important. The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Herbalism offers a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of herbal medicine, equipping participants with the foundational knowledge required to pursue further study or apply herbal techniques in complementary healthcare settings.
This professionally structured diploma explores the therapeutic uses of herbs and their role in supporting the body’s natural healing processes. Designed with UK standards in mind, the course balances traditional knowledge with modern scientific research to provide a well-rounded perspective on herbal health practices.
Delivered through a flexible learning format, the diploma is ideal for those seeking to expand their professional skillset or incorporate herbalism into existing wellness practices. Whether working in holistic health, nutrition, or simply exploring a passion for plant-based remedies, participants will benefit from practical insights and real-world applications.
Upon completion, participants will be able to identify key medicinal herbs and understand their traditional and clinical uses. They will also have the ability to prepare herbal infusions, tinctures, and topical remedies, while adhering to health and safety standards. The course serves as an excellent foundation for those considering further education in natural therapies or wishing to introduce herbal principles into personal or professional settings.
OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Herbalism
Study Units
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Herbalism and Traditional Medicine Systems (3 hours)
- Understand the historical roots and cultural significance of herbal medicine
- Recognise major traditional systems including Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Western herbalism
- Identify the key principles that guide herbal practice across different traditions
- Appreciate the role of herbalism in modern complementary and alternative medicine
Plant Biology and Identification of Medicinal Herbs (4 hours)
- Gain basic knowledge of plant anatomy and botanical terminology
- Learn techniques for identifying and classifying medicinal plants
- Understand the environmental factors that affect herb potency and quality
- Develop awareness of ethical and sustainable plant harvesting practices
Therapeutic Properties and Actions of Herbs (4 hours)
- Understand the pharmacological actions of common medicinal herbs
- Identify the therapeutic categories of herbs such as adaptogens, nervines, and carminatives
- Learn how specific herbs influence different body systems
- Explore the holistic principles behind herb selection for treatment
Herbal Preparation Methods: Teas, Tinctures, and Topicals (6 hours)
- Develop practical skills in preparing herbal teas, infusions, decoctions, tinctures, and salves
- Understand the proper ratios, techniques, and tools for herbal preparations
- Evaluate the effectiveness of different preparation methods based on the intended use
- Apply safety and hygiene standards in herbal remedy preparation
Common Herbs for Everyday Ailments (3 hours)
- Identify commonly used herbs for minor health issues such as colds, digestive upset, and stress
- Understand the safe application of herbs for self-care and home use
- Explore basic herbal protocols for common conditions
- Build confidence in choosing and combining herbs for simple remedies
Safety, Dosage, and Contraindications in Herbal Practice (3 hours)
- Understand how to determine appropriate dosages based on preparation and individual needs
- Recognise potential herb-drug interactions and contraindications
- Learn the importance of professional responsibility and informed use of herbal products
- Apply risk assessment principles in recommending or preparing herbal remedies
Integrating Herbalism into Holistic Health Approaches (3 hours)
- Explore how herbalism complements other wellness practices such as nutrition and aromatherapy
- Understand the importance of treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit
- Learn strategies for incorporating herbal support into personal or professional health routines
- Develop an awareness of the limits and scope of herbal practice
Herbal Remedies for the Immune, Digestive, and Nervous Systems (4 hours)
- Identify key herbs that support immune resilience, gut health, and nervous system balance
- Understand how herbal actions affect specific physiological processes
- Create basic herbal formulations to support immunity, digestion, and emotional wellbeing
- Apply knowledge of body systems to targeted herbal interventions
Course Benefits – OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Herbalism
- Gain a comprehensive foundation in the principles and practice of herbal medicine
- Develop the ability to identify, prepare, and use medicinal herbs safely and effectively
- Enhance your understanding of plant-based therapies within traditional and modern health contexts
- Learn practical skills in creating herbal teas, tinctures, and topical applications
- Strengthen your knowledge of herbal actions, dosages, and contraindications for safe use
- Integrate herbalism into personal wellness routines or complementary health practices
- Improve your ability to support immune, digestive, and nervous system health through natural remedies
- Understand ethical and sustainable approaches to sourcing and using medicinal plants
- Build confidence in applying herbal knowledge in holistic, preventative health care
- Earn a recognised professional qualification to support further training or career development in natural health fields
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Herbalism is designed for individuals interested in natural health, traditional medicine, and plant-based healing practices. It is particularly suited for:
- Health and wellness professionals seeking to expand their knowledge of herbal remedies
- Nutritionists, therapists, and holistic practitioners looking to integrate herbalism into their services
- Caregivers and support workers interested in natural approaches to wellbeing
- Individuals exploring complementary and alternative medicine as part of their personal or professional development
- Those aiming to pursue further study in herbal medicine or related natural health fields
- Anyone passionate about sustainable, plant-based solutions for everyday health
This course is ideal for participants who wish to gain practical and responsible knowledge of herbalism, with a view to using it in personal care or within a broader health and wellbeing context.
