Dr Herbert Nowell, ND (1887-1953) – British Columbia

DrHerbertNowellDr Herbert Nowell, Founder of Dominion Herbal College

Dr. Nowell, my friend and teacher, was a man of great integrity who inspired many to dedicating their lives in helping the sick get well.

He was very much like the great Dr. Thompson with the exception that Dr. Nowell was academically well-informed; whereas Dr. Thompson lacked a formal education. Dr. Nowell taught medical doctors Botanical Medicine in the days when Botanical Medicine was both accepted and practiced by the medical profession.

“Herbs are my religion.” Dr. Nowell would often say to me. “If they take away my herbs, they might as well take away my family Bible.”

Dr. Nowell spent many years compiling the Dominion Herbal College Diploma Program. Most of the formulae were researched by him. Let us honor and nurture this child of his, Dominion Herbal College. Without the perseverance and dedication of this great man, Herbalism in Canada would have died forever; for he helped preserve and rekindle interest in Herbalism. Yes, we lost a great Herbalist when Dr. Nowell passed on.

As we hold dear to our hearts the melodies of the old folk songs, let us hold dear to our hearts the remedies of the old folk medicines. And let us remember forever the man who believed in what he preached and preached what he believed in. – Ella Birzneck, RMT, MH, EP (1909-1987)