WHAT ONE CAN DO IN HERBOLOGY

Chapter 105

I am going to use this chapter to give you a look at what you can do in Herbology and with Herbology, in the areas we have covered so far. In Herbology: Fieldwork Working "in the field" can be taken very literally with Herbology. Herbologists often go out to explore different habitats and environments to see what's growing, how the plants are surviving/thriving, what uses there are for a specific genus, and so on. This sort of work requires a lot of travel. In field work one may also find themselves on at adventure to obtain seedings for a rare plant, or perhaps a specimen for study or healing use. Caring for Plants Here is where greenhouses come into play. Herbologists are often called upon to grow plants for use in various areas of the wizarding world. Healers often employ Herbologists to take care of/grow various plants due to the business of their work. Potioneers sometimes directly employ Herbologists; however, usually a third party is brought in to sell potions ingredients (an apothecary). Shopkeepers order directly from Herbologists. Sometimes Herbologists put out a catalogue, and witches and wizards make orders directly for their needs. Research Research in the area of Herbology can yield the most exciting results. When a researcher shares discoveries about the properties of a plant, new potions are brewed, new teas are stewed, and the world becomes a better place (most of the time). Research may go beyond just fieldwork, as some Herbologists devote their entire lives to the study of a single plant. Ocamier Flinson had thirty two greenhouses full of asphodel when he died. But he discovered new medicinal uses for asphodel, and habits essential to blooming care of the plant. His study furthered Herbology in a way which mattered to him greatly. Research leads to a better understanding of our relationship with plants, and how to best care for their lives. With Herbology: Apothecary Stores selling potion ingredients need someone who understands plants. From understanding shelf life, to caring for specimens needing to be kept alive, there is definitely a place for someone who knows their Herbology in the position of an Apothecary. Potioneer Understanding the realm of plants is vital to potions. Knowing how star puffs affect the dreamless sleep potion is necessary when deciding the dosage, and when deciding what other ingredients to put in. Some ingredients do not work well together, and knowing the temperament of plants is essential. Find me a Potioneer who knows nothing about plants, and I'll find you a healer who knows nothing about the body. Healer St. Munglo's is renowned as far as wizarding hospitals go, for having the most qualified healers. This is because besides an education in potions, medical conditions, and interacting with people, all healers must have at least an E in their Newt level Herbology class. Plants are so integral to the world of healing, perhaps because the life of plants is in balance to our own lives as humans. When we looked over properties of plants, you undoubtably noticed how healing properties were listed for nearly all of them. Stick with Herbology and you could land a good job at St. Mungo's one day. So there you have it! A basic look at what we learned this year in terms of future practical usage