Support Carissa’s
Doctoral Journey

🌿 Still Growing, Still Learning, Still Going Strong!

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An Update on My Doctoral Journey in Medicinal Herbalism (Pharmacognosy) (October 11, 2026)

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Since beginning my doctoral studies in January 2025, I have continued pressing forward in my pursuit of a Doctor of Medicinal Herbalism (M.H.D.), with a focus on Pharmacognosy! 🎓🌱
 

My doctoral program is not a PhD, nor is it a medical doctorate such as an MD or DO. It is a specialized educational program focused on medicinal herbalism, including pharmacognosy, which is the scientific study of natural substances, particularly those derived from plants, and their medicinal properties.
 

My education prepares me to deepen my expertise in botanical medicine, natural health, research literacy, and education.

One of my professional goals is to teach others about medicinal plants, their properties, traditional applications, safety considerations, and how they interact with the human body.

As a board-certified integrative practitioner, my role is primarily educational and supportive. I help individuals understand lifestyle factors, nutrition, stress management, and holistic wellness practices.
 

I do not diagnose diseases, prescribe medications, or practice medicine as a licensed physician would. Instead, I focus on health education, wellness guidance, and helping individuals make informed decisions while encouraging collaboration with licensed healthcare professionals when appropriate.

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This journey has been one of dedication, perseverance, personal growth, and an ever-deepening appreciation for the relationship between medicinal plants, scientific research, traditional healing knowledge, and integrative wellness.
 

I'm still here, still learning, still growing, and still committed to finishing what I started!
 

As a Board Certified Integrative Health Practitioner through the American Association of Natural Wellness Practitioners (AANWP) and founder of Whole Health IQ, my pursuit of advanced education is rooted in a desire to expand my knowledge, strengthen my professional expertise, and continue empowering individuals, families, and communities through evidence-informed, whole-person wellness education.

Pharmacognosy, the scientific study of medicinal substances derived from natural sources, allows me to further explore the connection between traditional plant-based practices and modern scientific understanding. This knowledge is an important part of my vision for the continued growth and development of Whole Health IQ.

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📚 My Journey Continues ...And So Does the Need for Support!

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Doctoral studies require an ongoing investment of time, energy, discipline, and financial resources. As I continue progressing through my coursework, I regularly need required textbooks, academic resources, and financial assistance with program-related expenses.
 

Each completed course brings me another step closer to my goal, and each new course introduces additional opportunities to learn, research, and grow.
 

To my family, friends, kindred spirits, and everyone who has encouraged or supported me along the way, thank you! Your kindness, generosity, prayers, and words of encouragement mean more than you know.
 

For those who have asked how they can support my continued education, or who simply feel inspired to contribute, there are a few meaningful ways to help.

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🌿 How You Can Help

📚 Purchase a Course Book
 

Textbooks and academic resources are essential to my doctoral coursework and continued professional development.

• Browse my current list of required and recommended textbooks below.

• Select a book to purchase directly or contribute toward its cost.

• Once a book has been purchased, it will be removed from the list.

• As I advance through my coursework, new titles and educational resources may be added.
   

Every book purchased is one less educational expense to navigate and another resource that supports my studies.
 

💚 Make a Financial Contribution

If purchasing a textbook isn't your preference, direct financial contributions are always welcomed and sincerely appreciated.

Contributions help offset the ongoing expenses associated with my doctoral program, including tuition, textbooks, research materials, and other academic needs.

Whether large or small, every contribution makes a difference and allows me to continue investing in my education and professional development.

 

🌱 Share, Encourage, and Follow Along
 

Financial support isn't the only way to make a difference!
 

Sharing this page, offering encouragement, keeping me in your prayers, or simply following along as I continue my studies are all meaningful ways to support this journey.
 

🌍 More Than a Degree ! A Commitment to Purpose
 

For me, pursuing this doctorate is about more than earning additional letters behind my name.

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It is about continuing to build upon years of learning, lived experience, professional development, and a genuine passion for helping others understand their health and wellness.

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I believe there is tremendous value in exploring how traditional healing knowledge and modern scientific research can inform one another, particularly when it comes to medicinal plants, prevention, education, and culturally responsive wellness practices.

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Through Whole Health IQ, my vision remains centered on making integrative health education more accessible, empowering individuals to become informed participants in their wellness journeys, and encouraging a deeper understanding of whole-person health.
 

This journey is not about replacing conventional medicine. It is about expanding knowledge, encouraging informed choices, and understanding the many factors that contribute to health and well-being.

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🌿 Rooted in Purpose. Growing in Knowledge. Committed to the Journey.

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I began this chapter in January 2025, and here I am, still going strong!
 

There is still much to learn, research to explore, coursework to complete, and knowledge to share. While the journey requires sacrifice and persistence, I remain committed to seeing it through.
 

To everyone who has supported me thus far, and to those who may choose to support me moving forward, thank you for being part of this chapter of my story.
 

Your generosity is not simply helping me purchase textbooks or meet educational expenses. It is helping me continue building the knowledge and foundation needed to serve others through the work I am passionate about.
 

The journey continues, and so does my commitment. 💚

With gratitude and purpose,

Carissa Hunter
Board Certified Integrative Health Practitioner
American Association of Natural Wellness Practitioners (AANWP)
Doctor of Medicinal Herbalism (M.H.D.) — Doctoral Studies in Progress
Founder, Whole Health IQ
 

🌱 Support My Continuing Doctoral Journey

Donate or Purchase a Course Book Below
 

Every book, every contribution, and every word of encouragement helps me keep growing.
 

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