Basics of MAPs
Objective
Learn how to grow and use medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) for knowledge, health or business. This course covers simple techniques, plant benefits, and practical uses to help you succeed in herbal medicine or farming. Gain skills to work as a herbalist, product developer, health consultant, researcher, or environmental advocate.
Target Audience
The certificate course targets agricultural professionals, entrepreneurs, herbalists, researchers, students, environmentalists, and government officials interested in cultivating and utilizing medicinal and aromatic plants. It aims to provide practical knowledge and skills for diversifying crops, starting businesses, enhancing traditional medicine practices, conducting research, promoting conservation, and informing policy-making.
Duration of Course
4 weeks
Credit Weight
2 Credits
Certificate
A certificate will be awarded upon successful completion of the course, validating thepractical knowledge and skills acquired.
Career Advancement
Upon completing this course, participants will gain practical expertise in the cultivation, utilization, and preservation of medicinal and aromatic plants. This knowledge will enhance their ability to work effectively in herbal medicine, agriculture, and natural product industries. Graduates will be well-prepared for roles such as herbalists, product developers, health consultants, researchers, and environmental advocates. The course also opens pathways to careers in quality assurance, sustainable farming, and biodiversity conservation. Start your journey to a greener future today!
Module - 1 Introduction to Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs)
- Overview of the history of MAPs and their role in traditional medicine across various cultures.
- Significance of MAPs in modern healthcare and wellness industries.
- Present status and the role of MAPs in the global market.
- What are medicinal plants? Understanding their definition and uses.
- Classification and identification of key medicinal and aromatic plant species.
- Distribution of medicinal plants: global and local perspectives.
Module - 2 Cultivation Techniques and Opportunities for MAPs
- Selection of plant species based on local climate and soil conditions.
- Propagation methods: seeds, cuttings, and division.
- Constraints in cultivation: climate, pests, and maintenance challenges.
- Importance and opportunities of cultivating medicinal and aromatic plants in India and globally.
- Understanding why the MAP industry is not prominent in India: barriers and potential solutions.
- Opportunities for entrepreneurs and farmers in the MAP industry.
Module - 3 Harvesting, Processing, and Active Constituents of MAPs
- Timing and methods of harvesting MAPs for maximum medicinal potency.
- Post-harvest handling, drying, storage, and packaging of MAPs.
- Quality control and standards for medicinal plant processing.
- How medicinal plants work: understanding their chemical constituents and bioactive compounds.
- MAPs as food or medicine: herbs and their effects on the body system.
- The role of active constituents (alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenes) in MAPs and their health benefits.
Module - 4 Practical Applications and Future of Herbal Medicine
- Preparation of herbal remedies: teas, tinctures, infusions, salves, and poultices.
- Development of herbal medicine in different countries: case studies of key medicinal plants.
- Exploring key medicinal plants and their specific uses in traditional and modern healthcare.
- Trends and future prospects for the herbal medicine industry.
- Growing medicinal plants: challenges and innovations.
- How the herbal medicine industry is evolving, and its potential impact on global health and wellness.
Conclusion: Final Lab Activity (Optional)
- Practical demonstrations of using local medicinal plants for common ailments.
- Students create their own herbal products (infusions, salves, or teas) using the knowledge gained throughout the course.
Learning Management System (LMS) Panel:
- Lifetime Access: Students can log in securely at any time.
Course Features
- Live Online Classes: Engage in real-time sessions with instructors
- Interactive Sessions: Participate in discussions and Q&A to enhance learning.
- Practical Sessions: Apply concepts through hands-on activities.
- Class Recordings: Access recordings of live classes for review at your convenience
- Self-Learning Videos: Benefit from pre-recorded videos to reinforce learning.
- Digital Course Materials: Receive a soft copy of all course content.
- Assignments: Complete practical assignments to apply your knowledge.
- Practice Assessments: Test your understanding with practice quizzes.
- Final Assessment: Evaluate your overall progress with a comprehensive exam.