Season 8-My Formal Education of Herbalism
Season 8 of 9
Learning with Structure and Humility
The forest was my first classroom. It taught me to observe, to ask questions, and to appreciate the wisdom that generations have preserved about Philippine medicinal plants.
But I also wanted a more structured way of learning. My background as a Certified Public Accountant had taught me the importance of discipline, careful study, and seeking evidence before reaching conclusions.
I wanted to bring those same values into my study of herbal medicine.
That desire led me to enroll in Accredi-Pro University, where I pursued formal studies in herbalism.
What I Learned
My studies helped me better understand:
- Botanical identification
- Herbal preparations
- Ethical harvesting
- Plant safety
- The importance of combining traditional knowledge with evidence-informed practice
More importantly, they reinforced that responsible herbalism begins with humility, careful observation, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
The L.E.A.F.S. Method™
One of the most valuable concepts I learned was the L.E.A.F.S. Method™, a structured framework that emphasizes:
L - Listening carefully
E - Selecting herbs thoughtfully
A - Designing appropriate herbal plans
F - Considering safety and herb-drug interactions
S - Continually evaluating progress
To me, it reflects the same principle I practiced as a CPA: good decisions begin with careful observation, reliable evidence, and thoughtful judgment. This is my graduation certificate:
A Milestone, Not the Destination
By God's grace, I completed the program with Distinction and graduated with the academic honor of Cum Laude. Here is the honors standing upon graduation:
While I am grateful for these achievements, I do not see them as the destination. They simply mark another milestone in a lifelong journey of learning.
Accounting taught me to seek evidence.
The forest taught me to observe.
Formal herbal education taught me to study with greater understanding, responsibility, and humility.
Today, when I write about Philippine medicinal plants, I try to bring together careful observation, available scientific evidence, traditional knowledge, and respect for God's creation.
I do not claim to know everything. I simply hope to keep learning — and to share what I learn with honesty, humility, and care.
Author's Notes
I am a retired Certified Public Accountant from the Philippines and a lifelong student of herbal medicine. I am not a licensed physician, pharmacist, or herbal medicine practitioner.
The information shared on this website is based on my personal experiences, continuous learning, and research, and is intended for educational purposes only. It should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for professional healthcare. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using medicinal herbs.
I also encourage readers to respect Philippine environmental laws, including regulations of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), when foraging or cultivating plants.