Phytopharmacy

The two modules of course have specific and well-defined objectives.
The module of Therapeutic Activity of Plants will provide the student the knowledge of some important botanical drugs, of their active components, of galenic preparations and therapeutic application. The module also provides the student the bases to understand the quality and safety of herbal drugs, through the analysis of adverse reactions and of possible interactions derived from a concomitant use of herbal and conventional drugs. The final goal is to provide the basis for a proper and safe use of medicinal plants and their derivatives.
The module of Non-Conventional Medicines provides the student the bases to understand the theories of the most common complementary and alternative medicines that can be found in Italy, with a specific focus on placebo effect and on its involvement in therapy. A critical analysis of results will be obtained through the evaluation of scientific papers published on international journals. Some explanatory lessons will be held by experts in some of the therapeutic strategies included in the program.

Module of Therapeutic Activity of Plants: knowledge of some important botanical drugs, of their active components, of galenic preparations and therapeutic application. Knowledge of the procedures for evaluating the quality and safety of herbal drugs. Ability to critically analyze the information available through mass media about the use of medicinal plants and their derivatives.
Module of Non-Conventional Medicines: knowledge on the neurobiological mechanisms at the basis of placebo and nocebo effects and on their role in any pharmacological therapy. Knowledge of the principles at the basis of the most common complementary and alternative medicines (e.g., homeopathy, acupuncture, ozone therapy ). Ability to critically evaluate data included in scientific papers to understand the scientific bases (if any) of non-conventional approaches to cure.