Join Erika Galentin, MNIMH, RH (AHG) for a four-part webinar series designed to demystify scientific research into medicinal plants. Taking guidance from an evidence-based practice approach, participants of this series will be introduced to skills of how to critically evaluate scientific research and incorporate such research into their therapeutic rationale. This webinar series seeks to explain, in simple terms, the different forms of scientific research commonly referenced by the herbalism and natural products industry, providing guidance on how to discern the relevance of such research in regards to the safe and effective use of medicinal herbs in both self-care and clinical settings. Whether you are a student of herbalism or a seasoned practitioner, this webinar series provides a strong and empowering foundation for incorporating scientific research into your therapeutic rationale whilst preserving and fortifying knowledge from both traditional use and personal experience.
Core topics:
Exploring the philosophy and world-view of the Western scientific method in its acquisition of knowledge about medicinal plants and possible limitations in regards to the practice of herbalism.
The difference between primary, secondary, and tertiary sources and why paying attention to this is important.
Searching skills for published research using online research databases and internet search engines as well as ‘following the paper trail’.
‘Anatomy’ of scientific research papers and their various sections, what to look out for in each section, and why we must look beyond the abstract before using research to guide medicinal plant choices.
Common terms and concepts used in the interpretation and presentation of study data including a discussion on interpreting the merits of study design and methodology as well as navigating the results section.
The culture of scientific publication (specifically the medical sciences) and why the process of evaluating scientific research must begin with the journal a paper is published in.
Sources of bias in pharmacological research including funding sources, conflicts of interest, and disclosures. Other sources of bias in publishing as well as referencing scientific research including acknowledging the confirmation bias of ‘cherry picking’ research.
Defining important differences between pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic research within the interdisciplinary field of pharmacology and how and why this research is investigating medicinal plants and their constituents.
Different types of study designs, such as in vitro, in vivo animal studies, pilot studies, human clinical trials, systematic reviews and meta-analyses and their strengths and weaknesses in regards to evaluating the safety and efficacy of medicinal plants. Differences in relevance of research on isolated constituents versus whole plant extracts.
The ‘Hierarchy of Research’ vs ‘Levels of Evidence’ and the clinical relevance of different types of medicinal plant research.
Exploring an evidence-based framework as applicable to the practice of herbalism and the skills that can be acquired through using this framework in applying scientific research to clinical practice. How good quality research can augment traditional knowledge and personal/clinical experience.
The importance of referencing research publications in writing and teaching.