Advanced Diploma of Western Herbal Medicine Course Details

Year 2

These modules provide a biomedical understanding of how the human body works. Students are introduced to anatomical and medical terminology, given a basic understanding of cells and tissues and are presented with an overview of the integrated organ systems that make up the human body. Each system is studied from the perspectives of structure (anatomy) and function (physiology). This foundation is essential for the study of pathology and symptomatology in later modules.

Herbal Studies 3

In Herbal Studies 3, students commence their study of the herbal therapeutic management of health conditions associated with the different body systems. Drawing on knowledge gained from Herbal Studies 1 and 2, and illustrated with case examples, students learn how to use herbal medicine to manage a range of different health conditions, using appropriate dosages and applying naturopathic and herbal medicine principles.

Herbal Studies 4

Herbal Studies 4 continues the therapeutic application of herbal medicine to various health conditions that was commenced in Herbal Studies 3. Additionally, students learn how to produce various types of herbal preparations including tinctures, extracts, creams and ointments, compresses and decoctions.

Naturopathic Analysis

This module focuses on iris analysis as the primary health assessment tool for naturopaths. Students study the history and development of iris analysis, its strengths and limitations, and its incorporation in naturopathic practice under a naturopathic philosophical framework. Various iris and eye signs are presented and discussed with reference to their indications relating to health. The module investigates different schools of thought in iridology theory and practice. Students apply iris analysis to determine potential health issues from a naturopathic perspective.

Naturopathic Clinical Studies 1 is designed to assist students in their transition from the classroom to the clinic. This is a pre-clinical studies type module which promotes the integration of essential knowledge and skills gained so far and the application of them to clinical practice. Students will also gain additional knowledge in areas of naturopathic health assessment and therapy, as well as developing their skills in the application of naturopathic principles to health assessment, therapeutic strategy development, and client management.

Starting with the fundamentals of disease processes, these modules explore the common pathologies for each organ system, emphasising clinical course and underlying causes of disease. The material is presented from a biomedical perspective to give students an understanding of “conventional” diagnosis and treatment.

This module provides students with extensive insight into disease presentations and symptoms, including practical experience with assessment and diagnosis. The module focuses on the biomedical perspective of disease.

This module covers safe workplace procedures, risk control and standard precautions for infection control and promotion of hygiene. Students will apply these in the clinical setting when they commence their Naturopathic Clinical Studies modules