Introduction to Herbal Medicine

The fundamentals of Western Herbalism

This course introduces some of the fundamentals of Western Herbalism. We will review the origins of western herbal medicine and its diverse influences, ranging from North American Indigenous healing modalities to the cuneiform tablets of Mesopotamia. We explore a variety of cultures that have contributed to the canon of western herbalism and then explore a framework for beginning the practice of herbalism for self care.

Examples of herbs to use for the health of the nervous system and gastrointestinal system are provided. Finally, we will touch upon the role of plant medicine in the global community and what to expect from the industry in the future.

You will be able to:
  • Define 3 examples of the history of western herbal medicine
  • Name 4 different ways to apply herbalism in your life
  • Identify 3 examples of indigenous healing modalities
  • Explain 2 differences between herbal medicine and conventional medicine
  • Specify the difference between broad and specific actions in herbal medicine
  • Define 3 herbs used for gastro-intestinal and nervous system health
  • Explain 2 global initiatives in herbal medicine


Your Instructor


Naneh Israelyan
Naneh Israelyan

Naneh is an artist, herbalist and researcher living in New York City. She received a BA in Sculpture from Bennington College and her postgrad education from the New York Botanical Gardens and Brooklyn Botanic Gardens with a focus on dendrology and herbal medicine. With a work background in ethnobotanical research and horticulture, she grows a personal medicinal urban garden and harvests her plants to be turned into various medicinal products. Her passion in herbal medicine lies in empowering herself and others to regain autonomy over their own health and well-being and decolonize information and education from the reigns of the western healthcare system. Her written work consists of dismantling the social and ethical implications of practicing and distributing plant medicines to the public.

Born in Armenia, Naneh is currently involved in a research project that involves collecting and documenting the use of plant medicines from her native country. This research will lay the foundation for bringing Armenian plant medicine to the global community. Naneh runs a herbal medicine research blog on her brand website pioneerflora.com.



Course Curriculum


  Introduction to Herbalism
Available in days
days after you enroll

Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
The course starts now and never ends! It is a completely self-paced online course - you decide when you start and when you finish.
How long do I have access to the course?
How does lifetime access sound? After enrolling, you have unlimited access to this course for as long as you like - across any and all devices you own.
What if I am unhappy with the course?
We would never want you to be unhappy! If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, contact us in the first 30 days and we will give you a full refund.

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