Year 1

Anatomy
The structure of the organism and relation to its parts, composition of the body including tissues and fluids and surface anatomy. This course will cover all the body systems, cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, urinary, reproductive, endocrine, integumentary, musculo-skeletal, nervous system and the immune system.

Histology
The study of the minute structure, composition, and function of the tissues, which establishes the connection between anatomy and physiology. This course will deal with the microscopic structure of tissue.

Embryology
The science that deals with the origin and development of an individual organism.

Physiology
The student will examine the various processes that allow the human organism to grow, flourish and function. The course begins with a look at the cell and follows it into the development of tissues and organs. After that we study each of the individual systems and how they function to maintain homeostasis in the whole person.

Biochemistry
Chemistry for Herbalists: The science of the compositions and properties of substances, the changes they undergo and their energy relationships. Part One—Building blocks. Part Two—Atoms, molecules and elements, periodic table and atomic bonding. Part Three—Chemical bonding, ionic bonds covalent bonds and hydrogen bonds. Part Four—Acids and bases, oxidation and thermodynamics. Biochemistry: Organic compounds, proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, energy, metabolism, bioenergetics, catalysts, enzymes, cofactors, coenzymes. Energy flow through the biosphere, photosynthesis, cellular respiration.

Microbiology
This course is designed to introduce the student to the world of microbes. Basic identification, growth patterns, life cycles, and propagation will be examined, with an emphasis on those which cause disease in humans. Included will be bacteria, fungi and viruses, as well as parasites and worms.

History and Philosophy
The history and development of herbalism and its future direction will be considered. You will explore and trace the history of herbalism from its past to present day. The various philosophical aspects of healing with herbs, vital force, energy and wholism will be emphasized not only in the philosophy classes but also all through the various courses taught. Philosophical considerations of Natural Therapeutics throughout the centuries will be addressed. The principle of preventative medicine with an exploration and discussion of the language of natural therapies, including a look at the similarities and differences between the medical model and natural therapies model of healing including basic principles of Oriental Medicine.

Botany
The Botany course is designed as a general introduction to the biology of botanical organisms, with particular emphasis on the angiosperms (flowering plants). The course will cover the evolution, development, form, function, classification and identification of botanical organisms, with emphasis on their general characteristics and differences.

Taxonomy
This course is designed as a general introduction to the nomenclature and classification of vascular plants, with particular emphasis on the angiosperms (flowering plants). The course will cover many aspects regarding the history, methods, concepts and goals of plant taxonomy with an overview of the characteristics of several plant families and their significant members. Special reference will be made to the identification of plants with herbal applications.

Learning Skills
A short introductory course in enhanced learning skills. Using a wide range of techniques used on research and educational psychology the student is given the tools of advanced learners. We focus on reading, study, memory, creative thinking and mind-mapping as a foundation for absorbing and integrating new knowledge.

Bio Medical Language
All subjects develop their own language. Herbal Medicine and biological sciences are no exception. This course examines the roots of scientific language in ancient Latin and Greek. The construction of medical language and the meaning of the roots and combining words and forms are explored.

Research Skills
Research is a constant tool in both study and professional life. This four-hour introduction to research focuses on resources and how to access them. Internet and library sources are outlined and experienced. Guidelines for efficient use of resources are discussed.

Phyto Pharmacognosy
Identification and authentication of plant material/herbs and quality control.

Phyto Pharmacology
This course is the study of the groups of constituents in medicinal botanicals that give them their chemical properties, and hence accounting to their therapeutic action/s. The student will aquire the knowledge of common plant constituents; acids, alcohols, tannins, alkaloids, saponins, flavones, volatile oils, carbohydrates, gums, resins, mucilages and glycosides.

Pharmacokinetics
This module is designed to give the student an understanding of the metabolic utilization of herbal components, dietary nutrients as well as allopathic drugs. It examines factors such as absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion that influence their movement and bioavailability to tissues. It also looks at the various methods of administration of substances and the factors that influence the advances in modern medicine and science will enable the student to learn how to intricately formulate herbal, dietary components to the individual.

Botanical Pharmacy
In this course the student will learn the art and skill of harvesting, drying and storage of herbs. It gives an understanding of what parts of herbs are important in their active ingredients. The student will learn the theory and necessary practical skills in making tinctures, decoctions, infused oils, capsules, salves, lotions, creams, poultices etc.

Horticulture and Gardening 1
Growing herbs is both a pleasure and for some, a business. This course looks at the principles of horticulture in relation to herb growing. Topics addressed include soil types and suitability, organic growing principles and anthroposophical sciences, growing from seed, cultivation and harvesting.

Clinical Skills Level 1
Students are taught the skills of clinic management, which involves patient record keeping, filing, dispensary inventory control etc. Introduction to Latin and medical terminology, appropriate to clinic is taught.