The course comprises the core introductory course to Pharmacognosy and Natural Bioactive Products, with an emphasis on products derived from plant sources. 

The educational context aims to introducing students to the principles of Ethnobotany, Pharmacology and Pharmacognosy, covering a wide field of complementary topics, including extensive elements of botany, organic chemistry, biochemistry, medicine and cosmetology.

The course also refers to principles and methods of cultivation of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants as well as of the extraction, isolation and activity assessment of bioactive products at laboratory scale. In this way, students acquire a complete knowledge of processes and methods for utilizing the sources of bioactive products.

Finally, the course aims to provide to students the comprehension of the importance of natural bioactive products in modern economy, particularly in respect of the management and utilization of natural resources, while contributing to the perspective of a distinct career in the respective field.