Ethnobotany

Catalog description

Catalog DescriptionThis course will focus on the biology and history of economically important plants and some of the other organisms traditionally studied under the broad umbrella of botany. Through readings in the primary and secondary literature, we will look at the diversity of plants and plant products in human use and the biological reasons behind their effects and importance. This will include most importantly medicinal plants, as well as plants that are sources of food and fodder, beverages and stimulants, fiber, dye, gums, resins, and latexes, pesticides, spices, herbs, and perfumes, and structural material. The course will also look at the connection between economic botany and genetics and evolution, especially with the increasing interest in genetically engineered plants.