Herbal remedies have been used for centuries - are they just "Old Wives' Tales" with no truth in them?, or is there objective science behind them?
There has been a dramatic increase in the public use of herbal remedies. What was once seen as a ‘quack’ science in now viewed by an increasing number of consumers as a safe and effective alternative to conventional medicine.
This course is designed to examine the wisdom behind this new popularity. We aim to help you to understand some of the science behind the old wives tales, and discuss some of the differences between modern and traditional medicine.
Outline
Topic 1 - Introduction to Herbal Remedies
In this topic we discuss herbal remedies, including how
effective or indeed harmful they can be and why. It will start with
the preconceptions associated with herbals, both for and against, and go
on to discuss these in greater detail.
Topic 2 - Plants and Antioxidants
A short introduction to photosynthesis and respiration is followed by
a description of the atom, electrons, free radicals and antioxidants
in plants.
Topic 3 - Herbals for the Brain
A brief look at depression and how the processes
in the brain impact on it. We discuss neurons
and neurotransmitters, and look at a simplified explanation
of how antidepressants work.
Topic 4 - Herbals for Cancer
In this topic we provide an answer to the question, What is Cancer?,
before discussing some possible herbal cures (i.e. Green
tea and Taxol). We end with a discussion of metastases and mechanisms
of action.
Topic 5 - Mini Project
You will be encouraged to find a herb that is indigenous
to your local community, plant it, tend it, and watch it grow and
use the internet, libraries etc. to investigate nay medicinal use
that it might have.
Who should take this course?
Anyone with an interest in herbal remedies who would like to find out a little about the science behind them. This is an ideal course for members of the medical community who want to be able to talk about herbal remedies with patients.
You will need
All materials are provided online through the course - there is nothing additional you have to purchase. However, there are books and other resources recommended by the tutor to supplement the course.
Entry Requirements
There are no formal entry requirements. A little scientific background would be beneficial, but is not essential.
How long is this course?
About 30 hours,
and we suggest you set aside about 4 hours a week - but it's up to you.
You will have tutor support for 3 months.
You will have access to your course for a year.
Your tutor
Your tutor for this course is 
Alison Hennessy.
You can find out more about on
the Tutors page.
Further information
Click here to download a leaflet. (PDF format)
Do you have any further questions? Visit our Contact
Us page and ask away.
