Amman Arab University (AAU) Pharmacy Students Explore Medicinal Herb Treasures at the Royal Botanical Garden
In a move aimed at enhancing applied skills and bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, the College of Pharmacy at Amman Arab University organized a scientific field visit for students of the "Herbal Medicine" course to the Royal Botanical Garden.
Supervised by faculty member Dr. Haya El-Qaderi, the visit aimed to enable students to directly identify native Jordanian plant species with medicinal properties and link the theoretical concepts they study to their natural environment. The visit also included an overview of the garden's efforts in preserving endangered plants and protecting national plant genetic resources.
Throughout the tour, students engaged with specialized technical briefings encompassing the taxonomical classification of medicinal plants, methodologies for the extraction of bioactive compounds, and the scientific significance of documenting traditional ethnobotanical practices within the local community. This comprehensive exposure fostered a profound understanding of the nexus between rigorous scientific inquiry and Jordan’s botanical heritage.
The Dean of the College of Pharmacy, Professor Rana Abu Huwaij, emphasized the importance of such extracurricular activities in refining students' skills and expanding their scientific horizons. She noted that these visits play a vital role in integrating academic education with practical experience, providing students with a holistic perspective that combines pharmacological and environmental knowledge. This, she added, prepares them to be qualified pharmacists capable of utilizing various therapeutic sources in professional practice.
Dr. El-Qaderi further noted that the visit serves as a practical model for applying scientific information in a real-world environment. She stressed that such experiences enhance the students' ability to understand medicinal plants and their uses comprehensively, supporting modern pharmacy education and preparing them for future professional challenges.
The visit concluded with an interactive session where students engaged in discussions regarding medicinal plants, extraction methods, and scientific documentation. The atmosphere was marked by enthusiasm and positive engagement, reflecting the students' passion for discovery.
