(Note: This course was formerly numbered TOX 501)
In this course, students develop an advanced knowledge base in the safe use of botanical supplements and their potential interactions. This course comprehensively examines plant chemistry, toxicology, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of essential oil and herbal remedies. Students will become skilled in comparing the toxicology of specific botanical chemical components found in herbal supplements and essential oils. Students will demonstrate a practical understanding of the relative risks and benefits of commonly used botanical substances, of safety considerations for special populations, of how to evaluate botanical concentrations and potencies for appropriate dosing, and of principles of quality control important to the safe production of botanical preparations.
Historical practices and the comparative toxicology of herbal and conventional substances.
The meaning of toxicological terms, methods, and basic concepts.
Difficulties in establishing a relationship between herbal use and manifestations of toxicity, including placebo and nocebo effects.
Detoxification systems in the body including liver enzymes such as the cytochrome P-450s and actions of the kidneys.
The importance of individualized factors in determining dosage.
Safety issues and modifications of herbal use during pregnancy and lactation; concerns for children, the elderly, and the immunocompromised.
The toxicology of different types of compounds found in the most frequently used botanicals.
The specialized toxicology of essential oils and their constituents.
Toxicological profiles of important and commonly used medicinal plants.
Synergistic and other modifications of potentially toxic constituents.
Issues of contamination in herbal products (including heavy metals, pharmaceuticals, and misidentified plants).
How to search the Internet for accurate information on adverse reactions and herb-drug interactions.
Required Course Pack:
The HERB 541 Practical Lab Kit includes the following experiential learning supplies:
Required Textbooks:
View the required textbooks for this class, including ISBN, edition, and retail price, by visiting our Required Textbooks page.
Total Course Price:
View the total course price, including tuition, fees, course materials, and shipping online here.
View all ACHS instructors, including bios, photos, and courses taught.
Candidates must possess a baccalaureate degree or higher from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the US Department of Education. Candidates must submit official transcripts directly from the issuing institution along with one professional letter of recommendation. All applicants must be recommended for admission by the ACHS Admissions Committee.
View the total course price including tuition, fees, course materials, and shipping.
5005 S. Macadam Ave.
Portland, OR 97239
Monday through Friday
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. PST
800-487-8839
503-244-0726
Monday through Friday
8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. PST
