This short course on Ethnobotanical Knowledge Systems (EKS) encompasses lectures, case studies, seminars, discussion groups and oral presentations, and will be completed by a term paper dealing with a relevant subject. In general, the programme of the course will focus on the newly developing field of ethnobotanical knowledge systems with regard to Medicinal, Aromatic and Cosmetic (MAC) plants in developing countries. Embarking on the development of ethnoscience, and in particular ethnobotany in the 1950’s, the programme seeks to locate the recent reorientation towards indigenous peoples and their plant-related knowledge systems within the overall process of globalisation, both in the sciences as well as in society.
After a general introduction, specific subjects will be presented such as the Interdisciplinary Approach towards Research and Training in EKS; the History of Human-Plant Interaction: Wild Food & Non-Food Plants for Subsistence; Research Methods & Techniques; the Concept of Bio-Cultural Diversity; MAC plants for Primary Health Care Improvement and Conservation; EKS & the Search for New Drugs; Indigenous Phytotherapy & Phytochemistry; EKS, Agriculture & Agribusiness; International Declarations & Conventions, and Traditional Resource Rights (TRRs).
Case Studies will focus on practical projects and problem-oriented experience in the Mediterranean Region, Sub-Saharan Africa and Indonesia.
Coordinator
prof. dr. L.J. Slikkerveer: email l.j.slikkerveer@umail.leidenuniv.nl
organisation: NHN-UL/Research School Biodiversity
Study material
Mandatory literature:
Quah, S. & L.J. Slikkerveer (2002) Traditional Healing Systems: Negotiating Science and Technology Challenges. Singapore/Leiden: IKS R&D Studies No. 4. (obtainable through the Course Coordinator);
D.M. Warren, L.J. Slikkerveer and S.O. Titilola (eds.), Indigenous Knowledge Systems: Implications for Agriculture and International Development. TSC Monograph Series 11. Ames, USA, ISU (obtainable through the Course Coordinator);
Advisory Literature:
Bogers, R.J., L.E. Craker & D. Lange (2006) Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Agricultural, Commercial, Ecological, Legal, Pharmacological & Social Aspects, Springer, P.O. Box 17, 3300 AA Dordrecht.
Additional general reading:
Balick, M.J. & P.A. Cox. 1996, ‘Plants, people, and culture – the science of ethnobotany’, New York;
Cotton, C.M. 1998 (reprint). ‘Ethnobotany: principles and applications’, Midsomer Norton;
Cunningham, A.B. 2000, Applied ethnobotany, ‘People, wild plants use and conservation’, Trowbridge. Minnis, P. 2000, Ethnobotany- A Reader, University of Oklahoma Press, Norman, USA.
A Fact Sheet including all modules, relevant literature & references will be provided to all participants during the Course.
Examination
Oral presentation, written assignment (term paper of approximately 15-20 pages)
Course requirements/recommendations
Proficiency of the English language
Time table
for the programme follow the link:
Remarks
Full Attendance, Presentation, Paper & Successful Conclusion will be awarded by the Official Certificate of the Course.