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How can we discern medicinal plant facts from fiction while also honoring the human foundations of drug discovery? This was the question at the heart of Medicinal Plants: From the Sacred to the Scientific, and apparently one that Tufts undergraduates really wanted to examine. The spring course was the first to close, with student interest exceeding our usual cap.
Instructor John de la Parra is an ethnobotanist and biotechnologist who has brought innovation to both medicinal plant research and women's health in academia and as an active advisor to the biotechnology industry. He recently completed his PhD in Chemistry at Northeastern University.
De la Parra designed an interdisciplinary and hands-on curriculum that introduced students to what he refers to as the “four pillars” for understanding plant-derived drugs: anthropology, botany, chemistry, and pharmacology. Numerous guest speakers enriched the learning experience and brought exciting new perspectives. Patrick McGonigal, a mental health professional from Rhode Island Hospital and Brown University, delivered an engaging talk on plants used for psychological conditions. Chris Denaro, an entrepreneur and expert on medicinal cannabis, brought his unique perspective on the medical marijuana debate. Eric Scott, a graduate student right here at Tufts, discussed the history and science behind the tea plant (Camellia sinensis).
Furthermore, in one class meeting, de la Parra brought in dozens of living medicinal plants for students to describe with botanical accuracy but also experience with all five senses. Another class involved concocting their own medicinal salves from an olive oil extraction of Calendula officinalis, beeswax, and essential oils.
Finally, a “botanical campus tour” in April – open to the entire Tufts community – allowed individuals to contemplate the rich history and science of medicinal plants growing right beneath their feet.
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