Ethnobotany and Ethnopharmacology

The course aims to provide a comprehensive knowledge of medicinal plants and traditional herbal remedies used for health purposes. Methodological skills necessary for conducting research in ethnobotany, the use of dedicated indices, and references to case studies will be provided. The theme of ethnobotany as a tool for environmental education, as a territorial resource, and for tourism will also be focused on, thanks also to a practical experience. Furthermore, importance will be given to the analysis of the toxic and beneficial properties of plant species traditionally used for heath purposes, with particular reference to their applications in specific geographical and cultural contexts. The ethnopharmacological study of the main plant-based products will be organized by geographical/cultural areas, briefly recalling botanical, phytochemical information, and traditional uses. In particular, the major scientific evidence and, where possible, recognized mechanisms of action will be reported. One of the goals of ethnopharmacology is the conscious and safe use of plants and their preparations, with implications that include the environmental and economic sustainability of such remedies, often characterized by confined use in regions with limited economic resources.

Participation in the lectures will enable students to acquire knowledge and understanding of the basic themes necessary to undertake studies in the fields of ethnobotany and ethnopharmacology. Specifically, the student will be able to:
· Understand the ethnobotanical use of the main medicinal species, with particular regard to the Italian territory.
· Know the methodologies of ethnobotanical investigation.
· Comprehend the value of plant heritage as a resource for preserving cultural biodiversity and for the territory.
· Know the main plant resources used in traditional health contexts globally.
· Be able to identify the distributions of such resources and describe the traditional therapeutic uses supported by major scientific evidence, recognizing the benefits and limitations of these preparations."