Herbal medicines

In groups of 5 allocate one of the following databases to each group member. Databases: • Natural Medicines database • Medline Plus • NCCIM • Pubmed • Cochrane Using your allocated database answer the following questions (note not all databases may contain the required information, if not available write “not available” in answer section). Once completed as a group collate all the results and fill out the supplied table. 1. Familiarise yourself with the database. Are there other internal databases listed? If so what can one search for in each of these databases? 2. How is the information about herbal medicines and/or nutritional supplements listed? Are Latin or common names used for herbal medicines? Give examples. Look up Peppermint. In the peppermint monograph please identify: 1. For which indications is peppermint likely to be effective? 2. How many references have been listed for each indication? Which was the most recent reference? How many review have been listed and which was the latest? 3. Is a pharmacological explanation given for peppermint’s effect in IBS? 4. What common gastrointestinal adverse effects are listed for peppermint? 5. Is there something in this database that rates peppermint’s effectiveness in IBS? 6. Is peppermint safe to use in pregnancy 7. Can peppermint cause heartburn      

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