Class Natural Products and Food Supplements

This course covers the study of natural products and dietary supplements, focusing on their application in promoting health, well-being, and quality of life. It includes an analysis of biosynthetic mechanisms and the pharmacotherapeutic classification of plants, providing an understanding of their potential as supplements. The aim is to provide students with scientific knowledge and critical thinking skills for the correct selection and advice on the use of these products.

Not applicable

Classification of natural products and regulatory framework, such as medicines and supplements. Similarities and differences. Natural products and biosynthetic pathways a. General mechanisms of biosynthesis. Primary and secondary metabolism. b.    Summary of the biosynthesis pathways of different classes of natural products: aromatic polyacetates, terpenoids and steroids, chiquimic acid derivatives and alkaloids. 3.    Pharmacotherapeutic classification and application of plants as food supplements. a.    Plants of interest for weight loss b.    Plants of interest for the central nervous system c.    Plants of interest for the cardiovascular system d.    Plants with action on the respiratory system e.    Plants of interest for the digestive system f.    Plants of interest for dermatology g.    Plants of interest for the musculoskeletal system h.    Plants of interest for the genitourinary system i.    Plants and mushrooms with immune-stimulating action j.    Plants with adaptogenic action

The course comprises theoretical and practical classes. The syllabus is covered in the theoretical classes, emphasising the basic concepts of natural products. Supporting teaching materials will be made available on the Moodle online platform. Continuous assessment includes: performance and attendance 5% (A); two theoretical tests 50% (B); case studies, 45% (C) (final = A (5%) + B (50%) + C (45%)). Working students who opt for continuous assessment must comply with the requirements defined above. Assessment by final exam applies to students who opt for it, covering the entire syllabus (written exam and theoretical-practical assessment). Grade improvement is carried out in the form of an oral assessment test, covering the entire syllabus.

Alonso J.R.; Tratado de fitofármacos e nutracêuticos, AC Farmacêutica; 2016 Proença da Cunha, A., Pereira da Silva, A., Costa, M. D. C., Rodrigues Roque, O., Proença da Cunha, H., & Proença Portugal, M. (2017). Manual de Plantas Medicinais—Bases Farmacológicas e Clínicas. Dinalivro: Lisbon, Portugal. da Cunha, A. P., Roque, O. R., & da Silva, A. P. (2006). Plantas e produtos vegetais em fitoterapia. da Cunha, A. P. (2004). Plantas e produtos vegetais em cosmética e dermatologia.