Herbal Medications: An Evidence-Based Review

Considering the pharmacologic interactions between herbal medications (HMs) and conventional medications, it is paramount to increase the awareness and knowledge of healthcare professionals about HMs. The purpose of this course is to increase healthcare professionals' awareness of the potential risks and benefits of HMs from an evidence-based perspective and promote the planned inclusion of HM use in patients' medical history. This course should allow healthcare professionals to discuss HMs in a knowledgeable and succinct manner with patients and colleagues. In addition, members of the public may use this course to enhance their personal knowledge of the subject matter presented.


Upon completion of this course, you should be able to:


1. Discuss the prevalent current and historical use of HMs in North America.

2. Explain the need to inquire about the use of HMs during preparation of a patient’s medical history, including components of a culturally sensitive assessment.

3. Discuss the pharmacology (i.e., pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, drug interactions, adverse drug reactions, toxicology) of HMs.

4. Describe the differences between the process of development and approval of HMs versus conventional medications, and the implications of health claims and therapeutic efficacy of HMs.

5. Outline the merits and limitations associated with the application of contemporary scientific principles and methodologies (i.e., evidence-based medicine) to assess the efficacy and safety of HMs.

6. Discuss, based on scientific and conventional medical principles, the pharmacologic properties, efficacy, safety, toxicology, therapeutic indications, and recommended dosages of saw palmetto and St. John's wort.

7. Describe the potential risks and benefits of ginkgo.

8. Identify key characteristics of ginseng.

9. Discuss the use of echinacea and kava, including potential adverse effects.

10. Review the use of garlic and valerian as HMs.

11. Outline the potential medical uses of andrographis and English ivy leaf.

12. Analyze the available evidence for the use of peppermint, ginger, soy, and chamomile.


This 10-hour continuing education course is available for download for professional development; if continuing education credit is desired, please see instructions included in eBook.