Scenario

Your grandfather, who is 70 years old, seems to be suffering from either dementia or Alzheimer's disease.You have heard on the radio that the herb, ginkgo biloba, is effective in treating memory losses. You are contemplating buying some for your grandfather. The only medicine that he takes is 2 aspirin daily, recommended by his doctor to minimize blood clotting. Should you put him on the ginkgo biloba? Why or why not?

Task :

Assuming your assigned role, you are to answer the questions found on the sites corresponding to your role.

Researcher: Answer the following questions:

1. Describe the herb.
2. Where does the herb come from?
3. What parts are used medicinally?
4. What is the recommended dosage?

Visit these sites to find your information.

• Berkeley site
• For the pharmacist
• Herbs for Health (go to topic menu and find your herb)
• Guide to Supplemental Medicine

Herbie's Herb Company Sales Representative: Answer the following questions:

1. What is the suggested use of this herb in alternative medicine?
2. What studies have been done to verify its use as a cure for these ailments?

Visit these sites to find your information.

• Nutrition for Life
• Xetapharm
• Guide to Supplemental Medicine

NIH representative:Answer the following questions:

1. What are the possible side effects experienced while taking this drug?
2. What interactions with other drugs are possible?
3. What precautions would you recommend to someone considering self-treatment with this drug?

Visit these sites to find your information.

• National Institute for Health
• Guide to Supplemental Medicine
• Search Herbal Safety
• msnbc
• Jama report

Go to Guide to Supplemental Medicine What is this company disclaiming in their disclaimer?

Product

After completing your miniquest search, compile the information for your role, meet with the other persons studying the same herb and formulate an argument for or against treating your grandfather's memory loss with ginkgo biloba.