Lecture 2 Flashcards
(24 cards)
What was the primary basis of Western Medicine for 2,500 years?
Plant-based medicine
This historical context highlights the long-standing tradition of using natural remedies before industrial pharmaceuticals emerged.
How long has industrial pharmaceutical medicine been in existence?
Approximately 100 years
This emphasizes the relative novelty of pharmaceutical approaches in comparison to traditional practices.
Who were the early transmitters of medical knowledge in the historical context of Western Medicine?
Persian and Egyptian physicians
Their contributions were foundational for the development of medical practices in Greece and Rome.
What significant texts were preserved and translated by Arabic physicians?
Graeco-Roman texts (e.g., Dioscorides, Galen)
These texts played a crucial role in the reintroduction of medical knowledge to Europe.
What percentage of the world’s population uses traditional medicine?
Approximately 80%
This equates to about 5.6 billion people relying on traditional medicinal practices.
What is the aim of the WHO Strategy for 2014–2023 extended to 2025?
Promote co-existence of traditional and pharmaceutical medicine
The strategy emphasizes that integrated systems yield the best patient outcomes.
What does the holistic approach in Western Herbal Medicine emphasize?
Treating the root cause, addressing physical, mental, emotional well-being
This approach recognizes the importance of comprehensive health.
What is the empirical basis of Western Herbal Medicine based on?
Centuries of clinical observation
This means that practices are grounded in observable results rather than theoretical concepts.
What are the core components of the treatment strategy in Western Herbal Medicine?
Plant-based medicine, healthy diet, healthy lifestyle, psychosocial wellness
This multifaceted strategy is aimed at enhancing overall health.
In which regions is Western Herbal Medicine recognized and practiced?
Europe (UK, Russia), USA, Canada, Australia, NZ, South Africa
This indicates the global acceptance and integration of herbal practices.
What are some of the terminologies used for Western Herbal Medicine?
Traditional European Medicine (TEM), Phytotherapy, Western Medical Herbalism
Different regions may use varying terms to describe similar practices.
How many main plant species are commonly used in Western Herbal Medicine?
Approximately 350 plant species
This includes both native flora and introduced species from various regions.
What are some common formulations used in Western Herbal Medicine?
Infusions, decoctions, tinctures, fluid extracts, essential oils, syrups, pastilles, creams, inhalations
These formulations showcase the variety of ways herbal medicine can be administered.
What defines Traditional Plant Medicines (TPMs)?
Medicines made from whole plants or plant parts, used in combinations
TPMs are rooted in long-standing customs and practices.
What parts of plants are commonly used in Traditional Plant Medicines?
Flower, leaf, root, bark, seed, lichen, fungi, berry, exudates, algae
This highlights the diversity of plant materials utilized in these medicines.
What is the distinction between Traditional Plant Medicines and supplements?
TPMs are pharmacologically active, while supplements provide nutrition
This distinction is crucial for understanding their different roles in health.
How is Western Herbal Medicine viewed in terms of scientific validity?
It is effectively a 2,500-year clinical trial
This long history of use supports its credibility in modern health discussions.
What percentage of the top 119 modern drugs are based on traditional medicinal plants?
75%
This statistic underscores the significant influence of traditional medicine on contemporary pharmacology.
Name an example of a modern drug derived from traditional medicinal plants.
Morphine (from Papaver somniferum)
This highlights the direct link between traditional practices and modern pharmaceuticals.
What are some therapeutic areas where TPMs are commonly used?
Mental stress, sleep disorders, pain, inflammation, respiratory issues, UTI, GI issues, skin wounds, appetite loss, fatigue
These areas reflect the broad applicability of TPMs in addressing health concerns.
What is a notable case study mentioned regarding Central Otago Thyme?
Effective against antibiotic-resistant bacteria
This showcases the potential of certain herbs in combating modern health challenges.
What were the results of the scientific study on Central Otago Thyme?
Whole-plant extract was more effective than thymol alone and 3x more effective than European thyme extract
These findings highlight the efficacy of whole-plant formulations in herbal medicine.
