Class Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy I

This cu includes the fundamentals of the study of plants or other natural sources as possible sources of drugs.  

Not applicable

1.1 Introduction (Definitions and historical context) 1.2.  Crude drugs (Nomenclature, Production, Preparation, and Isolation of pure compounds) 1.3. Regulamentation and use. Macro and microscopic identification of crud drugs. Quality control (Portuguese Pharmacopeia). 1.4. Notions of Plant biotechnology ¿ production of drugs): Plant Tissue and Cell Culture (In callus and in suspension, Organ cultures and regeneration of plants, Factors of importance for cultures. 1.5. Biological Active Compounds in Plants ¿ Biosynthesis. Photosynthesis. Classification of natural products) 1.6. Carbohydrates (Mono-, di- and Polysaccharides. Antibiotics. Reduction products) 1.7. Shikimic Acid Derivatives (Shikimic acid. Gallic and tannins. Aromatic amino acids. Phenylpropanes) 1.8. Acetate Derivatives from acylpolymalonate pathway and the isopentenyl diphosphate pathway. Isoprenoids). 2. Introduction to Phytotherapy.

In the Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy I course, innovative methodologies are used to enhance the teaching-learning process. The lectures and laboratory sessions are designed to deepen students' theoretical and practical knowledge in this field. Continuous assessment includes attendance and performance, written tests covering both theoretical and practical content, presentations and discussions of laboratory work and mini-projects, as well as the analysis and discussion of scientific articles. A written assignment on phytotherapy is also required. The course also includes a fieldwork component in the form of a study visit, providing practical and contextual experience in an industry that uses natural products. These methodologies aim to promote integrated and applied learning, preparing students for professional practice and research in this area.

Samuelsson, G., & Bohlin, L. (2009). Drugs of natural origin: A treatise of pharmacognosy (6th rev. ed.). Stockholm, Sweden: Apotekarsocieteten. Bruneton, J. (1999). Pharmacognosy, phytochemistry, medicinal plants (2nd ed.). Paris: Editions TEC & DOC Evans, W., & Evans, D. (2009). Trease and Evans' pharmacognosy (16th ed.). Edinburgh: WB Saunders. Farmacopeia portuguesa IX (Ed. oficial ed.). (2009). Lisboa: Imprensa Nacional, Casa da Moeda.