You suggested a client drink Red Raspberry Leaf tea at 34 weeks to “tone the uterus.” Two days later, her water breaks, and she goes into preterm labor. The baby spends weeks in the NICU. The father sues you, alleging your “medical advice” caused the premature birth. Your insurance carrier is now auditing your file to see if you “Practiced Medicine Without a License.”
Key Takeaways
- The “Unauthorized Practice of Medicine” Exclusion: This is the #1 reason holistic claims are denied. If you “prescribed” or “treated,” you voided your policy.
- Scope of Practice: Doulas are non-medical. Suggesting herbs can be construed as practicing medicine in many jurisdictions.
- Information vs. Advice: There is a legal canyon between “Some people use X” (Information) and “You should take X” (Advice).
- Sub-limits for Holistic Services: Some policies cover herbalism but with much lower dollar limits than standard doula work.
The “Why” (The Trap): The Scope Creep
In 2026, AI algorithms analyze claims for keywords. If your client notes say “Prescribed tea,” the claim is flagged instantly.
Most Doula liability policies cover “emotional and physical support.” They explicitly exclude medical, pharmaceutical, or nutritional prescriptions. Because herbs are active compounds, many insurers view recommending them as a medical act. If you are not a Licensed Herbalist, you are operating outside your scope.
The Investigation: Handling Holistic Advice
I looked at how policies treat “Holistic Advice.”
1. CM&F Group
- My Analysis: Very conservative. If you are a Certified Herbalist and you list that certification on your application, you might be covered. If you are just a doula “dabbling” in herbs, they will likely deny the claim.
2. Alternative Balance
- My Analysis: Designed for wellness. They cover “Herbal Consultations” if you have training.
- The Catch: You must prove you have the training/certification for the specific modality used.
3. Dominion Insurance (Canadian/International options)
- My Analysis: Often more lenient with midwifery/holistic scopes, but premiums are higher.
Comparison Table: Scope of Practice
| Action | Insurance Status | Risk Level |
| “You should take 2 cups of tea.” | Denied (Medical Advice) | Extreme |
| “Here is an article about tea.” | Covered (Information) | Low |
| Providing the tea yourself | Denied (Product Liability) | High |
[IMAGE: Screenshot of a client intake form showing the ‘I am not a doctor’ disclaimer]
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Change Your Language: Never say “I recommend.” Say “Current research suggests…” or “Commonly, women use…”
- Get the “Herbalist” Add-on: If this is a core part of your business, get certified and add “Herbalism” to your insurance declarations. Don’t hide it.
- The “Hold Harmless” Clause: Your contract must state: “Doula does not dispense medical advice. All dietary changes should be discussed with a care provider.”
- Document the “Referral”: In your notes, write: “Discussed tea. Reminded client to ask OB/Midwife before starting.” This sentence can save you $1 million.
FAQ Section
Is Homeopathy covered?
Usually separately. Homeopathy is a distinct certification. Standard doula policies do not cover it.
What about Essential Oils?
Same rule. If you apply oil to a client and they have an allergic reaction, you need “Aromatherapy” coverage. Applying it is “touch,” which increases liability.
Can I give them tea as a gift?
If you sell or gift a physical product (tea blend) that makes them sick, that is Product Liability. Most service policies don’t cover products you manufacture or blend.