Let's face it--there's nothing more frustrating than hearing how you can put essential oils in your water and foods from some "experts," and then you hear the exact opposite from a different "expert"?

And then you hear how chemistry is an important part of learning how and why specific essential oils work? YIKES! (Maybe chemistry was your worst subject in school, right? I get it! That was me, too!)

There's nothing more disheartening than wanting to save money on those cheaper essential oils, then finding out that you probably purchased a fake or adulterated product. Which companies are the best ones?

Maybe you've dabbled in herbalism and you're intrigued by adding essential oils to a formula, but you want to do it right and make sure it works like it should for the individual you're working with.

You've realized there's a LOT more to learn about these powerful little bottles of essential oil than meets the eye.

What if there was a way to make sure you have the correct knowledge you need to be able to answer questions from people with confidence, create the perfect blend for those you love, and maybe even begin working with clients and community using your aromatherapy and herbal skills?

Hi! I'm Heidi Villegas.

Since 2012 I've taught thousands of people to use herbs and essential oils so they and their family can experience:

Improved health and wellness
Speedy and healthy recoveries from cold, flu, and more
Enhanced immune systems
Better sleep and less stress
Peace of mind about what they're putting in their own and their family members' bodies
Being prepared for health needs AND emergencies
Empowerment in health choices
Saving a ton of money!
And more!

I can help YOU enjoy these things too because I'm an experienced:

community and clinical herbalist
certified professional level aromatherapist with NAHA and AIA
herb grower, forager, and medicine maker
career teacher and facilitator
homesteader and traditional skills expert
grandmother of seven (I've been around the block)

Wouldn't it feel amazing to know how to use essential oils to help....

The teenager who is in the grip of anxiety to better function in social settings and school
An exhausted mom finally be able to get a good night's sleep
Your grandson or other adult or child diagnosed with ADHD be able to focus and remember better
A friend struggling with painful, debilitating arthritis who just wants to garden and move again
The infant crying in pain from colic and the mom crying along with him in desperation
That nice gym rat needing more energy for his workouts
A friend who's been derailed by a tragedy get more easily through her grieving process
The lady down the street who needs help with severe PMS, mood swings, and cramping to finally feel human again
The musician with stiff, arthritic fingers be able to play his guitar again
And thousands of other scenarios.....

Our Holistic Aromatherapy Specialist Certification program is a 100+ hour, 12 module course designed so that you'll be able to confidently work with a minimum of 23 essential oils in a wide range of applications and uses.

This is a Level 1 course that I created based on the stringent and reputable Alliance of International Aromatherapy (AIA) guidelines, and it exceeds the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapists (NAHA) guidelines for level 1 certification.

If you're a natural mom or grandma or anyone who:

wants to be prepared
is tired of buying expensive over-the-counter drugs that contain toxic chemicals and harmful mystery ingredients
knows their family deserves the best health choices, and realizes that essential oils should be included
desires to understand these mysterious volatile oils better so that you can actually link the oil with your knowledge of the actual plant
and wants to understand how the essential oils interact with the human body, mind, and spirit

Then choosing an aromatherapy specialist certification is your first step!

More than just a course, it's the key to unlocking a healthier, more empowered lifestyle for you and your loved ones.

Literally transform your home, life, mind, body and help others do the same!

Our Aromatherapy Specialist course is designed based on the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA) and the Alliance of International Aromatherapist's (AIA) collective guidelines

You can rest assured that the education you receive from the HHH School of Botanical Arts & Sciences (SOBAS) is coming from an experienced herbalist and aromatherapist who is deeply immersed in the practice and continuing study of aromatherapy, and is a long-time professional member of both organizations.

NOTE: NAHA and AIA both require all certification courses to be taught for a year. I've applied with them and have every confidence we'll be an approved school shortly.

My approach is a no-nonsense, no-fluff, step-by-step process to help you experience a deeper relationship with plant medicine through use of essential oils. Herbalism is also included in the course, especially in the live chats. Many aromatherapists leave out the education into the actual plant. Not us. You'll get to know the plant as well as the essential oil.

Yes. You can take your time with lifetime access to course materials too.

What else makes our Aroma Specialist Certification course different?

🌿 SUPPORT AND HELP

One of the biggest issues with most schools is the teacher isn't present. At all. There's usually VERY little support and no way to get answers......

But not with our school. I'm here to help you, and so is our team. In fact, you'll be assigned to your own personal case study manager when you reach that portion of your studies.

BONUS: We offer a (minimum) monthly live Q&A chat so that when you have questions about your clients, case studies, phytochemistry, formulation, and anything else....you have a place to get an answer from a real live teacher.

BONUS: Our herbal village (the student community) ALSO has experienced herbalists and aromatherapists to help you out too. This is a vibrant and active community, much different than most schools. Our community is facilitated for learning, action taking, and loving involvement and help.

🌿 QUALITY OF RESEARCH

Our text supporting the videos are expertly researched with many resources and references you can check into to support your learning if you desire. Homework is geared for you to have fun while learning valuable application methods, do some reflection, and learn quickly.

You'll learn from a base of years of experience from our team, AND you'll have access to essential references and scientific studies to support your learning.

Our textbook for the course is detailed, researched, and will get you started working as an aromatherapist within your community if you choose. Videos support all text within the course, too, so you're not just reading massive tomes of boring literature.

🌿 OUR VALUE SYSTEM

Many aromatherapy schools infuse New Age practices and beliefs into their teachings. Spirituality and faith is integral to a holistic health practice value system, and beliefs plus practices are shared subtly through the materials in all schools. For Christians, this can be problematic and frustrating.

Here at the School of Botanical Arts & Sciences (SOBAS) by Healing Harvest Homestead, we teach from a Judeo-Christian viewpoint of God as the Creator of all, including our plant medicines, and He is the ultimate healer. You won't find potions, astrology, or earth worship here. This may or may not be important to you, regardless, all are welcome.

ACCOUNTABILITY AND STUDY HELPS

Each module includes quizzes and optional experiential exercises (fun homework) to try. These practices cement the knowledge you're learning in your mind! In addition, when you submit your work into the student community, others respond and share, too. This creates a true "study buddy" experience for those who like interactions like this! (Optional)

YOUR BEAUTIFUL PRINTED AND PERSONALLY SIGNED CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION

Surprise! When you achieve your goal of becoming an Aromatherapy Specialist, if you're in the United States or Canada, we'll be sending you a beautiful certificate to display proudly, including a wax seal. You'll also be able to print out your certificate online.

Our Aromatherapy Specialist Program is for you!

1) History of aromatherapy

2) Importance of Quality in Essential Oils

3) Methods of essential oil extraction, plus a bit of important botany and taxonomy

4) Anatomy & Physiology of body systems so you know how they work on the body...and why

5) Psychological effects of essential oils and how they interact with us on the level of mental wellness, mood, and emotion

6) Basic essential oil chemistry that explains why the essential oils work so well for so many things (it's not magic)

7) Methods of Application

8) Safety in use, including dilution and contraindications, working with various populations, and more

9) And more!

1) 23 deeply researched plant and essential oil profiles. Get to know your essential oils incredibly well

2) Blending and formulation with essential oils: Four methods!

3) Diluents and carrier oils because these matter too

4) You'll create a variety of safe, effective products...and understand why they work

5) Health and wellness: Understand how essential oils interact with various body systems with an overview of anatomy & physiology specific to aromatherapy

6) The business of aromatherapy, including pricing products, ethics, and more

Aromatherapy Specialist Certification Program Modules

MODULE ONE - INTRODUCTION

Introduction to aromatherapy
History of aromatherapy around the world (You'll love this interesting module!)
Aromatherapy today and the future of aromatherapy
Understanding holistic aromatherapy

MODULE TWO - SAFE PRACTICES AND QUALITY OF ESSENTIAL OILS

Characteristics of essential oils and what they are
Routes of administration for therapy
Deep dive into essential oils and safety
How to source and choose quality, affordable essential oils-criteria for reputable companies

MODULE THREE - EXTRACTION, BOTANY, TAXONOMY OF PLANTS

Understand how plants make and store essential oils and why some plants have them and some don't
Know plant cell structures and how they relate both to the plant and the essential oil
Why plants make essential oils and how this relates to us
Extraction methods of essential oils
Plant botany and biology
Taxonomy and classification of plants and why this is important

MODULE FOUR - EXPLORE 23 DIFFERENT ESSENTIAL OILS IN DEPTH

23 Essential oil monographs and deeply researched text references

Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea), Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens), Eucalyptus (E. globulus), Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens), Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Lemon (Citrus limon), Peppermint (Mentha x piperita), Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), Orange (Citrus sinensis), Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), Frankincense (Boswellia spp), Bergamot (Citrus bergamia), Copaiba (Copaifera officinalis), Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citrata), and Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata), Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin), Neroli (Citrus aurantium), Mandarin (Citrus reticulata), Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans), Ginger (Zingiber officinale), Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha), German Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)

Aromatic materia medica
Therapeutic actions on the body, mind, spirit
Energetic uses for the body, mind, and spirit
Blending tips
Remedies and formulations for each essential oil
Experience of the essential oils
Understanding endangered plants and essential oil use (Agarwood (Aquilaria spp.), Frankincense (Boswellia carterii), Rosewood (Aniba rosaeodora), Sandalwood (Santalum album)

MODULE FIVE - BASIC CHEMISTRY OF ESSENTIAL OILS

Chemistry of essential oils--understand and appreciate how the chemistry of the essential oils influences their benefits and your choices in blending
GC/MS Testing and what this tells us
Organic chemistry, terpenes, functional groups, and more
Define the main groups of chemicals found in essential oils, their molecular structure, general safety, and uses of these specific chemicals in your aromatherapy practice
Using chemistry to help inform your aromatic choices

MODULE SIX - OLFACTION, INHALATION, OUR SENSE OF SMELL, AND THE BRAIN-BODY CONNECTION

Inhalation physiology and how aromatic molecules enter our bloodstream via inhalation
Why our sense of smell is vital to survival and thriving with joy
Smell training for better scent perception
Disorders of the olfactory system
Journey of aroma molecules from your nose to the brain to the body
Memory, cognition, and aromatherapy
Brain structures for olfaction and how these affect our daily functions
The limbic system--the emotional center of our brain

MODULE SEVEN - AROMATICS AND THE NERVOUS SYSTEM, STRESS, THE IMMUNE SYSTEM, AND INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHONEUROIMMUNOLOGY

How aromatherapy affects our nervous system
Essential oils and the stress response
Understanding the H-P-A Axis and how you can manage stress immediately
Aromatherapy and the immune system
How and why your brain psychology, your nervous system, and your immune system interact and how you can strengthen each (Psychoneuroimmunology--PNI)
Anatomy & Physiology of the Nervous and Immune Systems

MODULE EIGHT - THE SKIN, ABSORPTION, AND CARRIER OILS

Find out how essential oils penetrate your skin and enter your bloodstream
Anatomy and physiology of the skin
How absorption into the skin works
Carrier oils and why they matter in creating formulas
Chemical make up of the best carrier oils

MODULE NINE - BLENDING METHODS, APPLICATION METHODS, AND CLIENT CONSULTATION GUIDELINES

Learn three different blending methods to choose from and why
Dive into the aromatic application methods....and have FUN
Legalities of client consultations, responsibilities, and how to engage with clients
Creating a case study report

MODULE TEN - AROMATHERAPY AND GENERAL HEALTH

Overview: Respiratory system, pathophysiologies, and formulations
Overview: Musculo-Skeletal system, pathophysiologies, and formulations
Overview: Urinary system, pathophysiologies, and formulations
Overview: Digestive system, pathophysiologies, and formulations

MODULE ELEVEN - THE BUSINESS OF AROMATHERAPY

Do you want to create an aromatherapy business?
Business models for aromatherapists
How to get started marketing
Labeling for products
Pricing your products

MODULE TWELVE - COMPLETION

You will have finished all of your case studies successfully
Pass the final exam
You're an aromatherapist!

This will depend on how you define "religious." Personally, I don't like the word, "religion." I believe in RELATIONSHIP with God and Jesus, as we are scripturally commanded to work toward this as Christians. Sometimes I may draw upon God's word and Jesus' teachings from scripture, and my own client practices are faith-based, but I don't teach religion in any way.

In terms of holistic practice, you will find that you attract clients who match your own brand of faith. We include this aspect as an optional part of your client-case-study practice because spirituality is a part of our total human experience, including our health.

Everyone is welcome in our courses, bar none. But if you are a person who is triggered or rolls your eyes by references to God as the creator and a little scripture here and there, then you might struggle a little bit. Be sure to read the community rules in the group so you can determine if we match up with you.

I suggest that you do as most do when in courses that teach from a different perspective and keep an open mind. We also have a two-day refund policy, so you can look over materials. I'm sure you won't be offended in any way.

Herbalists who desire to power up their practice with a deep understanding of aromatherapy
Moms and grandmas who want to use essential oils with their kids and families
Essential oil sellers and distributors who want to be safe and responsible with the information they share
Bloggers, online natural products creators, and other online or in-person businesses that have anything to do with fragrance, essential oils, aromatherapy
People into self-sufficiency and preparedness who want to learn how these tiny bottles can upgrade their ready to go medicine chests
Anyone who wants to go beyond dabbling
People working in healthcare, massage, or other modalities who want to use aromatherapy to help their patients, clients, and people in general
Anyone interested in aromatherapy and a healing art and a source of pleasure in your life

This course IS for you IF:

You're finally ready to legitimize your aromatherapy knowledge so you can speak and practice with your oils in true confidence.
You're ready to gain an amazing appreciation and gratitude for the gifts of essential oils...and be able to express with clarity to others.
You want to be sure the essential oil blends and products you make meet the standards of professional organizations such as NAHA, AIA, and are safe and effective for use.
You'd like to pursue an aromatherapy business that meets your heart goals and while helping others.
You want to add aromatherapy into another existing health modality: massage therapist, holistic nurse, herbalist, naturopath, etc.
You're ready for greater health empowerment and healing.
You desire to spot poor quality essential oils and choose oils that actually work
You're ready to have fun formulating your own products!

This course is NOT for you IF:

You blindly trust random sources online for your information and feel this is fine
You don't care what you put on your skin, and perhaps have no understanding that the chemicals in skincare products end up in your bloodstream--hormone disruptors and carcinogens mean nothing to you
You're just fine with toxic chemical drugs from Big Pharma such as the mom in the next scenario.....
You really don't mind dosing up your baby on Benadryl to get her to go to sleep (yes, I knew a mom like this) or using over-the-counter medications each and every day with no regard to the health consequences.
You have a complicated health problem and therefore require much one-on-one advice or help, and this is your motivation for learning aromatherapy. If this describes you, please work directly with a trained herbalist/aromatherapist and under your doctor's supervision. This course is also not a place to crowd-source advice for medical conditions.

Hooray! NO Facebook or social media!

You'll find the actual course materials (videos, printables, etc.) inside our beautiful new school platform, and you'll get a link to the course when you buy.

The BONUS student community is on a totally private platform we have invested in for YOU, and you'll receive an invitation and/or an email with a special link to join. It's ONLY for students of our Aromatherapy Certification Courses.

Enjoy private conversations that aren't monitored by any social media tech giant. You can feel safe and confident in knowing your personal questions and posts aren't open to the whole world.

Certification in both aromatherapy and herbalism aren't monitored by any certifying board in the United States. However, there are organizations in aromatherapy that provide guidelines for becoming certified in their organization, providing a level of trustworthiness to the endeavor. It's important to note, and in full transparency: You do not need certification to practice aromatherapy. It's highly recommended, though, and many entities will require you to list your education and hours of study especially if you wish to become insured (highly recommended) for a business.

The Aromatherapy Specialist Certification course here at School of Botanical Arts & Sciences (SOBAS) by Healing Harvest Homestead is one of the most thorough courses (if not THE most thorough) at this level. It exceeds the requirements for NAHA and meets or exceeds the requirements for AIA. One of the guidelines these organizations require is that the course be taught for a period of time before requesting approval.

As soon as that time period is up (come July, 2025 or earlier) we'll be applying to become an approved school with these two professional organizations. Therefore, I make no promise that this will occur, but I have every reason to believe that we'll be approved.

In the meantime, your certificate of completion proves that you've studied and experienced over 100+ hours of aromatics and have the education, case study experience, and know-how to work with clients at this level.

Disclaimer and Disclosure: I'm NOT a medical doctor. I'm an experienced clinical herbalist and aromatherapist. In no manner, stated or implied, is any statement here or that I make on any platform meant to cure, treat, diagnose, or prevent any disease or illness. Please be sure to check with your healthcare provider for advice on your medical conditions before using herbs and essential oils. Herbalism is unregulated in the U.S., so the FDA hasn't evaluated any information on any herbal platform or on herbal products for efficacy. Ditch the Drugstore is a course focused on common ailments most of us have. This is no promise or statement of cure. Again, it's important to keep your doctor apprised of any herbal uses especially if you're taking medications or are pregnant/nursing. No part of this course is meant to replace the advice of a medical professional. I'm not liable for any injuries, misinterpretations, improper use, possible side effects, or any adverse consequences. It's up to each individual to do their own research on herbs and essential oils. As with all things, our bodies react differently to foods, medications, and herbs. With this said, herbs and essential oils are generally safe when used appropriately. Always do your own additional research on herbs and essential oils, and choose sources from experienced herbalists and aromatherapists and once again...be sure to discuss medical needs with your doctor. Finally, I do my best to make sure all information is up-to-date and accurate, but as time goes on and more scientific studies reveal new information about medicinal herbs, there is a chance that some information may become outdated. At this time DTDS is four proven years old, so we're working from recent science. See full policies and disclaimers in the link below.

"I can confidently step into my little apothecary and get what I need!"

–Karen P., Student

DOES THIS SOUND FAMILIAR TO YOU?

"It's incredible!"

"It’s incredible, I couldn’t shorten all the information on Roman Chamomile in my notes, lots of wonderful things, I had to write them all. This is an amazing course, awesome journey 🦋

–Deborah R., Student

CONSIDER WHAT'S POSSIBLE...

Imagine your best friend comes to you asking for suggestions about what essential oils may work for their infant with colic? Or for a sprained ankle? Or a bad cold?

And...you have the answer. A SAFE answer!

You have the knowledge to provide the best options for your struggling friend. And many other situations too!

Here's what that would be like for you....

--Lynne M., Student

–Laura L., Student

INTRODUCING: The Holistic Aromatherapy Specialist Certification Program

"The knowledge of use I'm gaining about essential oils...has opened my eyes to see that they can also be used as a level of support and defense. I used to think of essential oils as more of a natural perfume."

–Chelan B., Student

WHAT SETS OUR HOLISTIC AROMATHERAPY SPECIALIST CERTIFICATION PROGRAM APART?

Our Aromatherapy Specialist course is designed based on the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA) and the Alliance of International Aromatherapist's (AIA) collective guidelines

What else makes our Aroma Specialist Certification course different?

Our Aromatherapy Specialist Program is for you!

- PHASE ONE -

The Foundations

- PHASE TWO -

The Plants, Body Systems, and Application Methods

- PHASE THREE -

FUN! Case Studies and Your Exam

Aromatherapy Specialist Certification Program Modules

PLUS! MORE BONUSES!

Besides our amazing student community and the live Q&A chats (both are priceless in value), you'll also get:

The 21 Day Joy Course

Botanical Skincare Workshop

Choose Your Best Investment Plan

Pay in Full-$997

12-Payment Plan - $97

Six-Payment Plan - $177

"When I blended the Calm Heart and could feel the results, I was hooked!"

–Misty M., Student

"I can't believe it worked that quickly!"

--Sara Hale, Student

"I was so surprised to learn about the wonderful medicinal qualities of essential oils!"

"I wasn't too sure about essential oils...."

"I went from, 'nope, no more hippy' to (40 years later) thinking, 'hmmmm, interesting that Christians like EO's'....., and now I'm using both herbs and essential oils. That's almost all I need to use now."

–Shelley H., Student

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS....

Is the Aromatherapy Specialist Certification Program Right for Me?

WHAT WILL I LEARN?

WHAT IF I FIND IT'S NOT FOR ME?

CAN I GET A PHYSICAL COPY OF THE BOOKS?

HOW SOON AFTER PURCHASING WILL I RECEIVE MY PRODUCT?

WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR?

HOW DO I KNOW WHETHER THE AROMATHERAPY SPECIALIST CERTIFICATION IS RIGHT FOR ME?

WHAT IS THE TOTAL INVESTMENT INCLUDING SUPPLIES?

HOW DOES THE STUDENT GROUP WORK? IS IT ON FACEBOOK?

WILL I BE A CERTIFIED AROMATHERAPIST WHEN I COMPLETE THIS PROGRAM?

"My family uses them too, and my neighbors love the salves."

–Norma Steiner, Student