Higher Proficiency Course in Phytochemistry

Higher Proficiency Course in Phytochemistry

Overview

The course is designed to provide the student with the basic information about phytochemistry, in terms of nomenclature, taxonomy, monographs, quality control, methods for extraction, characterization, detection of active ingredient in medicinal plants, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), pharmacologically active compounds obtained from natural origin mainly plant origin, secondary metabolites as alkaloids, cardiac glycosides and anthraquinone glycosides. The chemical structures of these studied phytochemicals will be granted much interest. The student has to recognize the chemical structure mostly with its main features, and is expected to be able to relate it to its botanical source, use, toxicity and interactions with other drugs. The course also has a mention of examples of semi-synthetic or synthetic drugs related to naturally occurring drugs.

Course Duration & Format

  • Mode: Offline
  • Schedule: Weekends
  • Session Duration: 5 hours per class
  • Total Duration: 180 hours

Target Group:
1. B.Sc. in Biological Sciences with Chemistry or Biochemistry as at least one subject
2. M.Sc. in Biological Sciences with Chemistry or Biochemistry as at least one subject
3. BAMS qualification
4. Higher or equivalent qualification in Medical/Biological Sciences (for overseas students)
5. A written examination and/or interview will be conducted, if required.

Methodology:
1. Theoretical lectures on phytochemistry, Ayurveda principles, and pharmacovigilance
2. Practical laboratory training in extraction, isolation, and characterization techniques
3. Research-based learning through literature review and mini projects
4. Application of Ayurvedic concepts in herbal drug development
5. Quality control, standardization, and pharmacovigilance practices
6. Seminars, presentations, and field/industry exposure

Course Structure

  1. Foundation Module – Basics of phytochemistry, nomenclature, taxonomy, and monographs.
  2. Phytoconstituents Module – Study of secondary metabolites and pharmacologically active compounds.
  3. Analytical & Laboratory Module – Extraction, isolation, detection, and characterization techniques.
  4. Chemical & Pharmacological Correlation Module – Structure–activity relationship, toxicity, and drug interactions.
  5. Ayurveda Integration Module – Application of Ayurvedic principles in herbal medicine.
  6. Quality Control & Pharmacovigilance Module – Standardization, safety monitoring, and regulatory aspects.
  7. Research & R&D Orientation Module – Analytical skill development and research project work.

Key Topics / Features

  1. Basics of Phytochemistry
  2. Nomenclature and Taxonomy of Medicinal Plants
  3. Herbal Monographs
  4. Secondary Metabolites (Alkaloids, Glycosides, etc.)
  5. Chemical Structure of Important Phytochemicals
  6. Structure–Activity Relationship
  7. Botanical Source, Uses, and Toxicity
  8. Extraction and Isolation Methods
  9. Detection and Characterization Techniques
  10. Quality Control and Standardization
  11. Pharmacovigilance in Herbal Medicine

  12. Application of Ayurvedic Principles in Herbal Therapy

  13. Introduction to Research and R&D in Medicinal Plants