RBGE roots were embedded in the ancient practices of herbal medicine when it was founded as a Physic Garden in the late 17th Century. Now, over three hundred years later, our first Diploma in Herbology rekindles that holistic tradition ...
Herbology is an innovative programme of study that draws together several connected branches of botanical science to clearly demonstrate the remarkable therapeutic potential of plants ... and the practical applications of this knowledge.
As a student of Herbology you will be directly involved in the redevelopment of our organic Physic Garden, and the preparation of some remarkable home herbal remedies, while at the same time being immersed in the Garden's own uniquely magical and curative spirit.
The course aims to:
- Explore and explain the world of herbs
- Encourage the study of medicinal plants
- Share understanding of the earth's herbal lore
- Enrich awareness of the natural world
- Nurture the creative use of healing botanicals.
Course content
The course is divided into 5 subject areas. Each includes practical and theoretical topics, with sessions delivered by lecturers from RBGE as well as visiting Herbalists, Holistic and Organic Practitioners, Botanists and Ethnobotanists from around the world.
- Phytology ... (the study of plants) - includes introductory Botany, Classification & Identification, RBGE Materia Medica.
- Pharmacology & Green Pharmacy ... here the theory of how herbs work (pharmacology) is combined with the practical preparation of herbal remedies (Green Pharmacy).
- Physic Garden Horticulture ... teaches not only how to grow medicinal herbs, but how to design and sustain your own organic physic garden ... the very heart of our Herbology programme!
- Ethnomedica ... ‘remembered remedies' - explores the botanical healing traditions of the world, from the Himalaya to our very own Herbs of the Highlands & Islands.
- Herbal Ecology ... wild harvest expeditions will explore some of our most remarkable botanicals in their natural habitats ... with practical insights into the sustainability and conservation of rare and endangered herbs.
Course structure
The course begins in September and is taught at RBGE on Tuesdays over 30 weeks. Each day will usually include a theory session in the morning followed by an afternoon practical. Students will be expected to do around 15 hours a week home study.
Assessment
Students will be assessed through written or practical work for each module, as well as a Herbal Journal, Herbarium, and their final Thesis.
Entry requirements
No formal qualifications or prior experience are needed to enrol on this course, just a keen interest and enthusiasm for the growing and use of plants for medicinal purposes, as well as a willingness to dedicate time and effort. *Please note that this course does not qualify you to practice as a medical herbalist.
Course fees and how to apply
The course costs £3,800.
The Applicant's Handbook, which contains further information and an application form, is available to download via the 'Downloads' box at the top right of this page. If you have any further questions after reading the Handbook please contact the Education office via our enquiry form (select 'Education') or directly at:
Education Department
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
20A Inverleith Row, Edinburgh EH3 5LR
Tel: 0131 248 2937
Email: education@rbge.org.uk
