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How to Become a Natural Pharmacist

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More people are starting to choose alternative medicine in order to prevent and treat disease. The main reason for this is because people have access to information and they are looking for a more natural approach to wellness. When most people think of a pharmacist they think of people who fill prescriptions for pharmaceutical companies prescribed by medical doctors. However, the field of natural medicine is continually expanding which is opening up new career opportunities for those who want to take a less invasive more natural approach to treating illness. A natural pharmacist uses herbs to treat different ailments and conditions. Herbs are medicines which should still be prescribed by a licensed herbalist or natural pharmacist. A natural pharmacist is basically another name for herbalist, naturopathic doctor or homeopathic doctor. If you want to help people overcome illness with alternative medicine there are certain steps you need to take.

Get an education. As alternative medicine becomes more popular more options are opening up in regard to schooling. Many states now offer programs to help you become a professional naturopathic pharmacist. You can also move to another state to receive an accredited degree. If you have a degree that is accredited you and your practice will be more respected. The Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine is an accredited school located in Arizona.

Sign up for your school of choice. Once you have found your school of choice whether it is in your own state or another state you will need to enroll.

Apply for financial aid. Depending on your school of choice there should be financial aid such as grants, scholarships or students loans to help you pay for your education.

Pursue a degree. Go to your college of choice and work hard in order to obtain your degree.

Apply for an internship. You will need to find a professional naturopathic doctor, herbalist, or natural pharmacist who will allow you to train under their supervision and guidance. You will need to find a professional who already owns their own practice. Most schools will also have information about internships. Some schools do require you to have a certain number of hours in the field before starting your own practice or earning your degree. In almost all cases an internship is required.

Start your own practice. Once you have an education you have the option to start your own practice. It can be very gratifying to open up your own natural clinic where you can help people achieve good health with natural medicines.

Tip

Don’t try to be your own natural pharmacist by prescribing herbal cocktails for yourself or family members. Always consult with an herbalist or trained professional because certain herbs interact with each other and pharmaceutical medicines.

Financial aid is available to help pay for your education if you choose an accredited school.

If you want to start your own practice you should also take business classes to learn how to run your own business. There are several steps you need to take in order to open up a practice. You will need a business plan, money as well as a willingness to succeed.

There are also many schools available on line such as the Global College of Natural Medicine.

Resources
Tips
  • Don’t try to be your own natural pharmacist by prescribing herbal cocktails for yourself or family members. Always consult with an herbalist or trained professional because certain herbs interact with each other and pharmaceutical medicines.
  • Financial aid is available to help pay for your education if you choose an accredited school.
  • If you want to start your own practice you should also take business classes to learn how to run your own business. There are several steps you need to take in order to open up a practice. You will need a business plan, money as well as a willingness to succeed.
  • There are also many schools available on line such as the Global College of Natural Medicine.
Photo Credits

Zolnierek/iStock/GettyImages