37692 - Plant-based Medicines

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the student understands the scientific and regulatory aspects that define and govern the use of medicinal products of plant origin. The student is able to collect and evaluate the available scientific evidence on individual plant-based products on the market, to identify their potential therapeutic or health-related role, as well as any safety concerns regarding their use.

Course contents

The course is structured as follows:

 

• 6 lectures by the Instructor, covering the main (pharmacological and regulatory) aspects of medicinal products of plant origin (with numerous examples), as well as the differences from plant-based products that are not classified as medicines (e.g., dietary supplements). During these sessions, the Instructor will also guide students on how to consult information sources on pharmacologically active plant substances, including regulatory sources.

• 2 “Flipped Classroom” lessons, in which each student, with the support of the Instructor, will present to the class a specific plant-based substance that will later be useful for preparing a final paper.

Readings/Bibliography

There are no reference theses, but a specific bibliography will be provided during the lectures.

Teaching methods

Lectures, assisted exercises, and “flipped classroom”.

Assessment methods

Presentation of a research assignment on a medicinal product of plant origin, with a group discussion.

Teaching tools

Slides, legislative documents, regulatory authorities’ websites, and tools for analyzing scientific literature.

Office hours

See the website of Carlotta Lunghi