Transform Your Health: Become a Herbalist

Ready to transform your health with herbal medicine? Our Herbalist Certification isn't just a course—it's your gateway to transforming your health, confidently sharing natural wisdom with your family and friends, and cultivating a life deeply connected to the earth's healing power. Learn from an expert about over 48 medicinal plants and how to confidently craft herbal remedies for you and your family.

Herbal Apprentice Making Elderberry Syrup

A level 1 apprentice making elderberry syrup in class.

Herbal apprentice teaching a tincture making workshop

A level 2 apprentice teaching a herbal workshop

Why HLY is Your Herbal Path

At Herbs, Love, & Yoga (HLY), we believe true herbal mastery comes from immersive, hands-on experience and building human connection through embodied learning, not just pre-recorded lectures or reading books. Our certification delivers more than just knowledge; it provides the confidence, practical skills, and personalized guidance you need to seamlessly integrate herbal healing into your life. If you're ready for a transformative, supportive, and truly effective learning journey, HLY is your solution to becoming a highly skilled family herbalist.

About Our Program

Our Herbalist Certification offers a unique, in-depth learning experience designed to make you a confident and skilled herbalist.

Personalized In-Person Learning

Experience 14 immersive weeks of in-person training. With just 8 students per class, you get personalized interaction with your instructor and a supportive peer community.

*Hybrid Option: Up to 4 virtual students can join our fall cohort live. Email Alyssa at [email protected] if you would like to join our cohort virtually.

Comprehensive Body System Exploration

Discover the power of herbs for every major body system: nervous, digestive, respiratory, immune, and more. Learn how to support common ailments with natural solutions. Our instructor, Alyssa, draws on 15 years of science teaching to simplify complex concepts.

Intimate Herbal Knowledge & Hands-On Learning

Gain deep insights from meticulously crafted herbal monographs, learning about 48+ medicinal herbs. Each week, take home the herbs you study to make teas and build an intimate connection. We believe hands-on experience makes you a better herbalist.

Practical Medicine-Making Skills

Master the art of herbal remedies in hands-on practicums. You'll create and take home infusions, decoctions, syrups, balms, salves, vinegars, honeys and more – ready to integrate into your daily life.

Botany, Identification & Ethical Wildcrafting

Develop essential skills in plant identification and ethical wildcrafting. You'll get up close and personal in our medicinal herbal garden and learn to confidently find and responsibly harvest herbs in nature. Enjoy in-person plant walks in Newtown and surrounding areas.

Ready to Transform Your Health? Enroll Today!

Your journey into the powerful world of herbal medicine awaits. Don't miss this opportunity to gain confidence, practical skills, and a deep connection to natural wellness. Whether you choose our Early Bird savings or the flexible payment plan, the time to cultivate your future as a family herbalist is now. Secure your spot in our upcoming cohort and start your transformative education at Herbs Love + Yoga.

Apprentices putting their intentions into freshly harvested medicine from our herbal garden

Apprentices gathering during a guided plant walk

Level 1 apprentices tending to plants in our medicinal gardens

What Our Students Are Saying:

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The 200-hour Herbalist Training Certification was a mind-blowing experience that surpassed all my expectations. This course is perfect for individuals at all levels of herbal medicine expertise, Alyssa offers a well-rounded, hands-on curriculum that really made me feel empowered on my journey as an herbalist. I leave class every Monday feeling excited to take my herbs home and share everything I am learning with my family and friends. The program stands out for blending theory and science with practical application. All of the remedies we study can be reproduced in the home with simple ingredients. Alyssa is not only knowledgeable but also incredibly supportive, providing personalized attention and guidance throughout the training. The in-person nature walk, medicine making and class discussions were so inspiring. Being able to physically interact with herbs, observe their growth in nature, and learn the art of preparation firsthand added a layer of understanding that cannot be replicated by simply reading a book. I would highly recommend this certification to anyone seeking to make the jump into the deep pool of herbal medicine.

Debra R.

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Herbal Apprentice

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This class is absolutely amazing. Finding an in-person herbalism class is not easy. Finding one that incorporates the spiritual aspect as part of the curriculum is something you will be hard pressed to come upon, even if you were searching for it. This class grants you the opportunity to grow personally and gives you so much more than plant medicine. Alyssa makes everyone feel like an important part of every class and she is a thorough and caring teacher. Her knowledge in both the medicinal and spirituality of herbalism are invaluable. The fact that this course is teaching you so much more than plant medicine,and gives you a sense of community, is something you will take with you always.

Elizabeth K.

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The Foundations of Plant Medicine Level 1 is a solid introduction to medicinal herbs on both a practical level to a deeper spiritual level. Alyssa discusses medical systems in an easy-to-understand visual manner. I only wish that I knew all the benefits, both physically and spiritually earlier in my life. Alyssa makes the class fun too - we plant seeds, make syrups, make teas at home and write about our experiences. This is a live class in every sense and the interactions between Alyssa and the students are instrumental in understanding the herbal plants in a meaningful way. Highly recommend this class to everyone who is called for the journey!

Mary M.

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I took the Foundations of Herbalism Level 1 + 2 certification courses at HLY and thoroughly enjoyed it. This course provides a great balance between science and spirit. I was drawn to this class in particular because of Alyssa’s background as a science teacher and a spiritual herbalist, and I have not been disappointed. We have had detailed lessons and readings on herbal actions, body systems, and current research. We have also learned different ways to connect with the spiritual energy of our plants, including journeying, meditation, and “walking” with a plant. Through all of this, it’s clear that Alyssa has walked the path herself, and she really makes the class come alive with her own stories, perspectives, and wisdom when it comes to working with plant allies. The practical components, including medicine making and tending a garden, are a wonderful and rich addition to the in-person experience. I feel like this class has opened up a whole new world for me, and I feel empowered not only in working with the plants, but in having greater agency in my own health and healing.

Kristin R.

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I took the Foundations of Plant Medicine Herbalist Training Certification Courses, Level 1-3, and it has been such a fun experience. I have learned so much from this course that I would not have learned online by myself. I love the community that comes with being in person and the hands-on approach. I'm happy with the structure and layout of the lessons as they are easy to understand. Alyssa is a great teacher and breaks everything down into easy-to-digest information.

Kearstyn F.

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Foundations of Plant Medicine Level 1 is where I began my plant journey by weaving together plant wisdom with holistic healing and a touch of magic. I have gained confidence and competence through Alyssa's teachings by learning about plant medicine in the wise woman traditions and continued on to Level 2. Alyssa offers a solid knowledge base and gives you tools that you will use for years to come on your path as an herbalist. Whether helping friends and family or going the route of community or clinical herbalist, this program will give you the skills and strategies to help the people you care about with the power of plant medicine.

Sherye J.

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I have thoroughly enjoyed taking Foundations of Plant Medicine Level 1 and 2. It has been a gateway for me into herbalism. In the short time I have known Alyssa and been a part of her class, I have found myself dancing with the plants and getting to know the herbs on not only a traditional medicinal level but also through spiritual connection. She emphasizes wild crafting and a local approach as much as possible. I appreciate her practicality and step-by-step approach to gathering the essential knowledge and skills to help greater serve family, community or even a clinic as an effective holistic herbal practitioner.

Kait T.

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Meet Alyssa, Your Trusted Guide to Herbal Medicine + Holistic Wellness

know how frustrating it feels to face health challenges without true support. Diagnosed with PCOS years ago, I found conventional medicine only managed symptoms. Through a focused herbal protocol, my hormones balanced, and my symptoms vanished within three months.

If you're tired of feeling dismissed or unsupported, you're not alone. I'm here to hold space, guide you with compassion, and offer grounded, evidence-informed support.

With over 15 years of experience teaching biology and chemistry, nine years as a clinical herbalist, and a decade as a yoga teacher and Reiki master, I offer a full-spectrum approach to mind, body, and spirit wellness. Every remedy we create in our state-certified facility is made with integrity, safety, and deep respect for the plants. Learn More About My Story And Our Healing Philosophy Here

Your Journey Starts Here: Course Information, Tuition, Schedule & Inclusions

Choosing to become a certified herbalist is an investment in your personal well-being, your family's health, and a rewarding future. Our comprehensive certification program offers unparalleled value, equipping you with practical skills and deep knowledge to confidently practice herbal medicine.

DESCRIPTION

Embark on a transformative journey into the world of herbal medicine with our comprehensive in-person 75-hour Herbalist Training Certification. Designed for both beginners and those with some herbal medicine knowledge, this certification offers an immersive experience that goes beyond the theoretical, providing in-person hands-on training at our Sandy Hook, CT studio that sets it apart. Upon graduation receive a 75-hour certification and the skills necessary to become a family herbalist. Learn more about our level 1 training below

BENEFITS OF BECOMING A FAMILY HERBALIST

Integrate herbal medicine into your existing health and wellness practices: Seamlessly blend the power of herbs with your current routines for enhanced effectiveness.
Empower your family and friends with solid science-based plant medicine practices: Share science-based herbal remedies to support the health of your loved ones.
Connect in-person with like-minded community and build a strong support network of fellow herbalists: Build a strong support network with others who share your passion.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

In-Person Learning Experience: Unlike online courses, our program meets weekly for 14 weeks in-person. Limited to 8 students, this ensures a personalized and interactive learning environment. Benefit from direct interaction with an experienced instructor and build a supportive community with your peers. For the fall cohort we will be accepting up to 4 hybrid students whose geographic location prevent them from being with us in person. Hybrid students will be required to meet live-virtually during each scheduled class. If you are interested in joining our fall cohort virtually please email alyssa, the instructor, at [email protected]

Comprehensive Exploration of Body Systems: Explore the complexities of the nervous, digestive, respiratory, circulatory, immune, urinary, lymphatic, reproductive, musculoskeletal, and integumentary systems. Investigate prevalent ailments and uncover herbs that provide support for each system. Learn complex ideas in easy to understand ways! Alyssa was a biology and chemistry high school teacher for 15 years so her knowledge of science and the human body is vast.

Herbal Monographs: Acquire insights from meticulously crafted herbal monographs, each designed to deepen your knowledge of physical and spiritual plant properties and their applications in supporting the body's well-being. Each week you will take home the herbs that you learn about so you can make herbal teas and intimately get to know them. We are all about hands on learning experiences over boring lectures and information overloading. By intimately knowing each herb we learn about, you will be a better herbalist.

Hands-On Medicine-Making Practicums: Immerse yourself in the art of herbal medicine creation with practical sessions on nutritive infusions, standard infusions, decoctions, double decoctions, syrups, elixirs, herbal vinegars, herbal honeys, as well as herbal steams, sprays, poultices, oils, balms, salves, scrubs, and lotions. Make medicine to take home with you and integrate into your daily routine.

Botany, Plant Identification, and Wildcrafting: Acquire essential skills in botany, plant identification, and ethical wildcrafting practices to confidently identify and responsibly harvest herbs from the natural world. Enjoy in-person plant walks around Newtown and surrounding areas.

Projects and Quizzes: These assessments not only ensure comprehension but also offer valuable feedback, guiding you on your journey to becoming a proficient and confident herbalist

Whether you're a newcomer to herbal medicine or someone who has dabbled in the field, our 75-Hour Herbalist Training Certification is your gateway to a world of botanical wisdom. Embrace the power of nature and embark on a journey of holistic healing. Enroll now to secure your spot in this unique and limited opportunity for in-depth herbal education.

FALL COHORT DETAILS

We are excited to announce we will have 2 cohorts/class options for fall 2025.

Class Option 1: Tuesdays 5:30-7:30pm on the below dates:
September 9, 16, 23, 30
October 7, 14, 21, 28
November 4, 18, 25
December 2, 9, 16

Class Option 2: Saturdays 1-3 pm on the below dates:
September 6, 13, 20, 27
October 4, 11, 18, 25
November 1, 8, 15, 22
Dec 6, 13

Students can expect to spend 3 hours outside of class studying and applying the skills that they've learned each week. This certification is a time commitment and all of the outside of class helps to build competency.

INVESTMENT + REGISTER

$1999
Early Bird Registration (Register by August 9, 2025 and save $500 on standard tuition)
Standard Tuition: $2500 (Register after Aug 9th, 2025)

14 In-person or Virtual Live Classes

Holistic Body Systems Study: In-depth exploration of the physical and spiritual connections of all major body systems.

48+ Herbal Monographs & Embodied Learning: Gain intimate knowledge of 48+ medicinal herbs, taking home samples each week for direct experience and study.

Hands-On Medicine-Making Practicums: Create and take home infusions, syrups, honeys, salves + more

Ethical Wildcrafting + Plant Identification with 2 Herbal Medicine Plant Identification Walks (Weather Permitting)

Hands-On Garden Learning: Tend to medicinal plants in our garden (seasonal)

Direct Access to Your Instructor, Alyssa, a 15-Year Science Educator

75-Hour Family Herbalist Certification Upon Graduation

10% Student Discount: Save on bulk herbs, teas, tinctures + salves purchased in-store or online during the program

Do you offer payment a payment plan?

Yes, we offer a standard tuition payment plan. There is not a payment plan for early bird registration.
$500
Initial deposit
Plus 4 monthly payments of $500
Due 9/1/25; 10/1/25; 11/1/25; 12/1/25

DOES THIS TRAINING MAKE ME A CERTIFIED HERBALIST?

In the United States, there isn't a officially recognized credential equivalent to 'certification' or 'license' for herbalists. However, various schools offer programs leading to titles like Master Herbalist, Certified Herbalist, Family Herbalist, or Community Herbalist. While these titles lack formal state or federal recognition, they serve as valid means to convey your education and experience, indicating a certain level of proficiency. Our program serves as a comprehensive foundation for further specialization, allowing you to focus on areas such as community herbalism or clinical herbalism. Graduates can also register as members of the American Herbalist Guild, obtaining a Registered Herbalist Membership. This membership serves as a way for herbalists to showcase core knowledge and experience, establishing a meaningful competency standard for themselves, their communities, and other health professionals and institutions. We acknowledge that herbalists worldwide possess various skills, and registering with the American Herbalists Guild is just one avenue to demonstrate expertise. For those who value peer review as confirmation of their clinical skills, the designation 'Registered Herbalist' signifies a recognized level of expertise and commitment to herbalism.

ARE THERE ANY ADDITIONAL TRAININGS I CAN TAKE AFTER LEVEL 1?

Following Level 1, our herbalists embark on an enriching journey through Foundations of Plant Medicine Level 2: Community Herbalist Certification. Here, students deepen their understanding of body systems and expand their repertoire with new materia medicas for plants, empowering them to address a diverse range of ailments. Moreover, this level places emphasis on the practical aspects of herbalism, including the creation and maintenance of a herbal medicine business. Students gain valuable insights into the entrepreneurial aspects, learning the intricacies of running a successful herbal venture. This holistic approach ensures that our herbalists not only possess a profound understanding of herbal practices but also the practical skills needed to thrive in the herbal medicine business landscape. Level 2 covers crucial aspects such as creating an herbal business, understanding labeling regulations, and implementing cGMP practices. As part of the level 2 training, students will apprentice at Herbs Love and Yoga for a minimum of 2 hours weekly. Moving on to Level 3: Clinical Herbalist Training Certification, where students concentrate on treating specific ailments using advanced herbal formulations. The curriculum includes an in-depth study of various pharmaceuticals and herb-drug interactions. Under supervision, students participate in treating patients within a round table setting, further honing their clinical skills. These advanced levels offer a comprehensive and hands-on approach to herbal education.

Frequently Asked Questions

who is the level 1 family herbalist certification for?

This certification is designed for both complete beginners with no prior herbal knowledge and those with some existing experience who wish to deepen their understanding, gain practical skills, and earn a certification to confidently practice family herbalism.

What is the weekly time commitment outside of class?

Beyond our 2-hour weekly in-person (or hybrid) class, we recommend dedicating 3-4 hours per week to homework, reading assignments, and hands-on practice. This includes engaging with your take-home herbs and medicine-making.

What kind of career paths can I pursue after completing your herbal certifications?

Our certification courses empower you with practical skills and confidence, opening doors to various exciting paths within the herbal world. Graduates can go on to:

Work in Apothecaries & Herb Shops: Assisting customers, managing inventory, or even blending custom teas and bulk herbs.
Manufacture Herbal Products: Create and sell your own line of herbal remedies like tinctures, salves, teas, and body care products (often sold online, at farmers' markets, or in local shops).
Give Community Workshops & Classes: Share your knowledge by leading engaging workshops on topics like basic medicine making, seasonal herbalism, or specific herb uses.
Cultivate & Harvest Herbs: Become an herbal grower, specializing in growing medicinal plants for personal use, sale to apothecaries, or even starting a small herb farm.
Herbal Consulting/Education: Provide educational guidance and support to individuals seeking to incorporate herbs into their wellness routines (it's crucial to understand the distinction between education/consulting and clinical diagnosis/treatment, which typically requires more advanced training and adherence to state regulations).
Herbal Writing & Content Creation: Contribute to the growing body of herbal knowledge by writing articles, blog posts, recipes, or creating content for herbal businesses.
Support Other Wellness Professionals: Integrate herbal knowledge into an existing wellness practice (e.g., massage therapy, yoga instruction, nutrition coaching) to offer a more holistic approach.
Work in Herbal Businesses: Find roles in product development, sales, marketing, or quality control for larger herbal companies or supplement manufacturers.
Lead Plant Walks & Nature Connection Programs: Share your plant identification and wildcrafting skills by guiding others on educational walks.

Will I receive a certification upon completion?

Yes! Upon successful completion of the course curriculum and full payment of all tuition fees, you will receive your 75-hour Family Herbalist Certification.

What is the cancellation and refund policy?

All payments and deposits are non-refundable. For detailed information regarding cancellations, refunds, and withdrawals, please refer to our full terms and conditions

what if i miss a class?

We understand that life happens. While in-person attendance is highly encouraged for the full immersive experience, arrangements can be made to join classes virtually if you are traveling, or we can provide you with a recording of the class to help you catch up.