Becoming an Herbalist
Lesson 2: Using Savvy Language
Lesson 2 dives into something every herbalist, whether clinical, product-based, or hobbyist, really needs to understand: how to talk about herbalism without accidentally crossing legal lines.
In the U.S., herbalists aren't licensed medical professionals, which means we have to be careful not to sound like we're practicing medicine. That means steering clear of terms like “diagnose,” “treat,” “prescribe,” “cure,” or even calling someone a “patient.” These words are legally tied to licensed medical practice, and using them, even unintentionally, can lead to trouble.
Instead, herbalists are encouraged to use words like “support,” “balance,” or “nourish.” We can educate and share information, but we can’t claim to heal disease or offer medical treatment. Even product labels and website copy need to avoid making health claims that the FDA would consider “medical.”
What’s really helpful is that this lesson doesn’t just say what not to do, it also explains how herbalists can communicate effectively and legally. It encourages being clear about scope of practice, using disclaimers, and always focusing on empowering clients to take charge of their own wellness, rather than positioning the herbalist as the one “fixing” anything.
“My work as an herbalist is the work of connecting people with plants that can help them find physical, emotional, and spiritual balance. Any resemblance to work intended to diagnose or treat medical conditions is purely incidental”
In the end, it’s not just about avoiding legal trouble, it’s about practicing ethically and honestly, and letting herbalism shine for what it truly is: a holistic, collaborative, and supportive approach to health.