From Herbal Knowledge to Pharmacy Expertise: Bridging Natural and Conventional Medicine

*Collaborative Post

In today’s health landscape, advances in modern medicine and natural treatment can work in tandem to reshape people’s health. Someone may turn to herbal remedies to treat aches and inflammation. But in other instances, modern medical treatments may be more suitable for certain ailments.

In short, the growing focus on integrating traditional therapies with the science of pharmacy has led to more comprehensive, holistic patient care. Read on to learn more!

Why Herbalism Matters

Herbalism, which entails using components of plants to support health, can have a positive impact on one’s physical and mental health. For instance, chamomile can soothe anxiety, while ginseng can enhance energy. Other herbs can improve digestion, sleep, and mood. Herbalists look to natural solutions that treat the whole person’s health needs and not just one symptom.

At the same time, some natural medicines can trigger side effects or cause adverse reactions if mixed with other conventional drugs. Gingko biloba, for example, may reduce the effectiveness of certain drugs and cause a higher bleeding risk. Ginseng and garlic are also known to interact with other drugs. Thorough pharmacy education is a must for herbalists prescribing drugs and helping patients understand the potential for adverse reactions. Understanding ingredients can help herbalists offer more informed advice for patients taking conventional medications under the guidance of other healthcare professionals.

The Benefits of a Pharmacy Education

Pharmacy professionals are skilled in understanding how medicines interact and what correct dosages look like. They have the expertise to help patients know how to take medications safely. Consequently, an herbalist stands to gain a broader knowledge base by exploring pharmacy technician career paths.

Ultimately, pharmacy professionals with a background in herbalism can educate patients more effectively about drug interactions. They’ll understand proper dosage and know about interactions between herbal and prescription drugs. They’ll also validate pharmaceutical-grade safety standards for every prescription they supply.

Finding the Right Training Program

Getting a formal education in pharmacy practices is essential for anyone planning to work as a pharmacist in any setting. It’s best to find a hands-on program that allows students to learn through direct engagement in a hospital or community pharmacy. At the end of the program, students should have the skills needed to secure necessary certifications in the field.

Many community colleges offer pharmacy technician programs that can be completed in as little as six months. Some programs even combine herbal and conventional medication studies as part of the curriculum. Students learn about medical terms and drug interactions as part of their coursework. Individuals who complete these programs will be able to help pharmacists with inventory tracking and the communication of medication information to patients. They’ll take a Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), which is a nationally recognized exam that earns an individual the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) Certification upon successful completion. This credential is essential for individuals seeking job opportunities.

Additionally, technicians can refine their skills and stay current on the latest practices through continuing education workshops. Online certifications and coursework can boost an individual’s resume, too, making them more attractive as job applicants. Further, individuals can find herbalist-focused resources through the American Herbalists Guild (AHG).

Combining Herbal Knowledge with Pharmacy Training

Today’s herbalists benefit from pharmacy education, and today’s pharmacists benefit from understanding an herbalist’s approach to dispensing medication. Building depth of knowledge in each area can help professionals promote patient safety.

Some patients may walk into a pharmacy to pick up a prescription while they’re already taking herbs to treat other issues. A pharmacist or technician with herbal training will be able to advise the patient on adverse interactions. Having robust mastery across both conventional and herbal treatments can help bridge the gap, ensuring patients are under the care of competent professionals.

An Integrative Approach

As healthcare increasingly embraces natural and conventional approaches to treatment, professionals need to be equipped to help patients navigate a more nuanced medication landscape. That means individuals pursuing careers in a pharmacy setting can benefit from both traditional pharmacy training and knowledge of herbal medications. For herbalists, pursuing pharmacy training only enhances their efforts to help patients toward holistic wellness. Health professionals can strengthen their role as patient advocates and guides by investing in deeper pharmacy knowledge and herbal expertise.

*This is a collaborative post. For further information please refer to my disclosure page.