The use of herbal medications (HMs) is historically linked to the early stages of medicine. The development of pharmacology, chemical isolation and clinical use of single compounds both of natural and synthetic origins has lead to an evidence-based approach to therapeutics. In recent years, however, an individual awareness of health and well being has contributed to an increased prevalence in the use of natural health products, including herbal medications. An estimated 20-30% of the general population take herbal medications, and this number is even higher among individuals that are receiving health care. However, the health care professional often neglects to inquire about the patient’s use of HMs, and take into account the potential for serious interactions and adverse effects that may result from the use of HMs and their interaction with a prescription drug.

Course Outcomes & Benefits

This course is designed to:

• Provide an updated evidence-based approach to the use of herbal medications;
• Increase awareness to the widespread use of HMs
• Promote a culturally sensitive assessment to the use of HMs
• Emphasize the need to inquire about the use of HMs in clinical settings;
• Discuss the most commonly used HMs
• Discuss potential adverse effects and drug interactions in areas particularly relevant to dentistry
• Facilitate inquiry and evidence-based evaluation of HMs in a dental practice