Welcome to the heart of everything we do here at ASOHM. I am Hilde Hemmes, and for more than forty years I have dedicated my life to understanding, practising, and teaching the art of western herbal medicine. Long before I established this school, I grew up in Germany surrounded by the healing wisdom of plants — a tradition that stretches back thousands of years and remains just as relevant today. Herbal medicine is not a fringe idea; it is the foundation upon which much of modern pharmacology was built. My hope, through every article you find here, is to share that knowledge honestly and accessibly, so that you can make informed, confident choices about your health and wellbeing.
The articles in this collection reflect the breadth of western herbal medicine — from the chemistry of plant compounds to the practical preparation of remedies you can use at home. I have always believed that knowledge is the most powerful medicine of all, and I hope these posts help you build yours. If something you have read here has sparked a deeper curiosity, I warmly invite you to explore our full online course, where we cover herbal medicine systematically from the ground up.
Frequently Asked Questions About Herbal Medicine
What is western herbal medicine?
Western herbal medicine is a tradition of healing that uses plants native to or widely used in European cultures, drawing on centuries of documented use alongside modern phytochemical research. Unlike some other herbal traditions, it combines traditional knowledge with an understanding of human physiology and biochemistry — which is exactly what we teach at ASOHM.
Is herbal medicine scientifically supported?
Many herbal medicines have been extensively researched, and a significant number of pharmaceutical drugs are derived directly from plant compounds — aspirin from willow bark, digoxin from foxglove, and morphine from the opium poppy, to name just a few. That said, not every traditional remedy has been subjected to rigorous clinical trials, which is why learning to read evidence critically is a key part of any serious herbal education.
Can herbal medicine be used alongside conventional treatment?
In many cases, yes — but this must always be done with care. Some herbs interact with pharmaceutical drugs, and it is essential to inform your doctor of any herbal remedies you are using. Our course covers herb-drug interactions in detail, because I believe that informed, responsible use is the only kind of use worth practising.
How do I know which herbs are safe to use at home?
Safety depends on the herb, the preparation, the dose, and the individual. Some herbs are gentle enough for everyday use; others require professional guidance. A good herbal education will teach you which is which. I always recommend starting with well-documented, gentle herbs and building your knowledge progressively — exactly as our course is structured.
What is the difference between herbal medicine and naturopathy?
Herbal medicine is one discipline within the broader field of naturopathy, which also encompasses nutrition, homeopathy, and lifestyle medicine. A herbalist focuses specifically on plant-based remedies. Our course at ASOHM provides a strong foundation in western herbal medicine that complements broader studies in natural health.
How are herbal medicines prepared?
The most common preparations include infusions (herbal teas), decoctions (simmered plant material), tinctures (alcohol extracts), and topical preparations such as poultices, salves, and creams. We cover each of these methods in our course, so you can confidently prepare remedies at home.
How long does it take to learn herbal medicine?
Our 12-lesson online course is designed to be completed at your own pace — some students finish in three months, others take considerably longer. What matters is that you absorb the knowledge deeply rather than rushing. You have up to four years to complete the course at no extra charge.
Can anyone study herbal medicine, or is it only for healthcare professionals?
Our course was specifically designed for everyone — curious individuals, health enthusiasts, carers, and those who simply want to make better decisions about their own wellbeing. No prior medical knowledge is required. I wrote the curriculum to be accessible to all ages and backgrounds.
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Study Western Herbal Medicine with ASOHM
If reading these articles has left you wanting to go further, I would love to have you as a student. Our online course covers twelve comprehensive lessons — from the fundamentals of plant medicine through to the treatment of specific body systems and chronic conditions. You can study from anywhere in the world, at your own pace, and begin with as little as one lesson. View our lesson packages and enrol today.
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