VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.
From Ethnopharmacy to molecular Pharmacognosy
Von Ethnopharmazie zu molekularer Pharmakognosie
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:05:21
Abstract
Basic knowledge and understanding of ethnopharmaceutical and ethnopharmacological field work. Knowledge about methods used in drug discovery from natural sources
Objective
Basic knowledge and understanding of ethnopharmaceutical and ethnopharmacological field work. Knowledge about methods used in drug discovery from natural sources.
Content
Introduction into ethnopharmacy and related disciplines: definitions of technical terms, working methods, project design and bioprospecting. Traditional medicinal plants from different cultures and their role in modern Western medicine (rational explication of traditional use). Empirical and Traditional Knowledge vs Evidence Based Medicine. Contemporary model plants and phytopharmaka vs isolated pure substances. The role of Biodiversity (CBD, Rio 1992) and problems associated with drug discovery. Screening strategies for drug discovery: Choice of materials (plants, marine organism, microorganisms), screening strategies (random vs screening based on cultural, ecological, ethnopharmacological or chemotaxonomic criteria).
Resources
Lecture Notes
A handout will be provided
Literature
Balick M.J., Cox P.A.; „Drogen, Kräuter und Kulturen“, Spektrum Akademischer Verlag Heidelberg, 1996. Heinrich M.: „Ethnopharmazie und Ethnobotanik. Eine Einführung“, Wissenschaftliche Verlagsgesellschaft mbH Stuttgart, 2001.
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture |
Von Ethnopharmazie zu molekularer Pharmakognosie
Does not take place this semester.
|
No time listed | 1 h weekly |