This course offers a survey of herbs and spices that are used as medicines for common conditions, diseases and illnesses. Cases will be used throughout the lectures to illustrate the application of nonconventional approaches to treat common conditions and diseases. Pharmacological aspects of selected herbs and spices will be briefly discussed. Topics will include overview of complementary and alternative medicine, controversies, cultural practices, efficacy and safety considerations as well as evidence-based research of herbs and spices. The course will include a list of readings, websites, and case studies. �