For a schedule of Fall 2013 courses, click here

FFYS/PSIS6 - An Exploration of Medicinal Plants (1 credit) (Fall, Spring)
Although ancient texts and ceremonies indicate plants were used as medicine from the dawn of history, antibiotics and vaccinations developed in first half of the 20th century led conventional medicine to shun plant material for chemically synthesized replacements. Concerns about modern medicine and changes in life style and research during the past 20 years, however, have led to increased interest in using plants and plant extracts as medicine. In this course, we will focus on a series of plants used in modern medicines and/or diets to treat disease and improve health. Both historical and modern applications of the plants as medicines will be explored through class presentations and discussions, looking to the future of medicines from plants.(FRESHMEN ONLY) Lyle Craker

PLSOILIN 280- Herbs, Spices, and Medicinal Plants (4 credits) (Spring)- GenEd Biology course
Introduction to the growth, culture, and science related to the production and use of herbs, spices, and medicinal plants. Emphasis on plants used in the home with discussions on bioactivity of plant extracts. Laboratory practice in seeding, growing, oil extraction, and utilization of these plants. Examinations, project and identification of selected herbs. Lecture, lab. Lyle Craker

PLSOILIN 297C - Traditional Herbal Medicine Systems Part I (1 credit) (Fall)

The botanical wisdom accumulated by indigenous people has provided humankind with herbal drugs used in human healthcare for thousands of years.  Systems of herbal medicine have evolved around the world, many with overlapping medical practices and theories of health and disease.  In this course, we will study the history and practices of traditional medicine systems from around the world including traditions from Africa, South America, China, India, and North America.  To better understand how and why certain medicinal plants are used in healthcare, we will study medicinal plant chemistry, plant taxonomy, and plant geography.  Lecture.  No prerequisite.  Nazim Mamedov

PLSOILIN 297D - Traditional Herbal Medicine Systems Part II (1 credit) (Spring)
An examination of indigenous medical systems in the world to understand the choices of herbal medicines used by traditional healers and the similarities and differences in the approach of treatments.  Discussions on herbal medicines used in various societies in the fight against afflictions such as diabetes, obesity, and gastrointestinal disorders.  An assessment on medicinal plants that possess antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, and immune enhancing  activity.  A look at herbal medicines used around the world for improving men’s and women’s health.  Lecture.  No prerequisite (Part I of this course is not necessary for understanding Part II).  Nazim Mamedov

PLSOILIN 297J- Clinical Herbalism: Part I (1 credit) (Fall)/ PSOILIN 297K- Clinical Herbalism: Part II (1 credit) (Spring)
Taught by a practicing clinical herbalist, these courses will cover the traditional understandings of human physiology, health, and sickness, according to Western, Native American, and Chinese health philosophies.  We will discuss how herbal medicine can be used to maintain or restore health and balance within the context of the different health philosophies.  The courses will include a survey of commonly used medicinal plants, understanding the chemistry of the plants and the actions of the plants in human systems.  A major focus of the courses will be the appropriate preparation and applications of different types of medicinal plant extracts.
Lecture.  No prerequisites (Parts I and II of this course can be taken independent of each other).  Chris Marano

PLSOILIN 398S Practicum- The Shaman's Pharmacy (Amazon Field Immersion Course) (3 credits) (Winter 2012)
Amazon Shamanic Medicine provides a unique, intensive exploration of the plant-based medicines of Amazon rainforest, a body of knowledge derived from shamans who are considered among the most capable of natural healers alive today. The course involves three two-hour class sessions, and eight days of travel and participation in studies and rainforest activities, in the Peruvian Amazon rainforest. The trip to Amazonia is held at ExplorNapo, a lodge and learning facility set in primary rainforest along the Rio Napo in Peru. of field experience. The ExplorNapo facilities include access to experienced Amazon guides, boats for venturing deeper up rivers and into the forest, a medicinal plant garden developed by botanist Dr. James Duke, and easy access to the Canopy Walkway operated by Amazon Center for Tropical Studies. Lecture and practicum. Chris Kilham

Courses of interest in the Department of Plant, Soil & Insect Sciences

Courses of interest in other Departments

Students are encouraged to review the course catalogs of Hampshire College, Smith College, Amherst College, and Mt. Holyoke College for related courses. The Five College Course Catalog can be found here.

Special thanks to Chris Kilham, Zoe Helene, Chris Marano, Zoe Gardner, and Gaia Herbs for the use of the photos.

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