Scenario

Matt and Joe are year round athletes. They have heard that the herb, ginseng, is a natural way to increase athletic performance. They visit a health food store and notice that there are three forms of ginseng. Should they take the ginseng? If so, which one and how much of it?

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.

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

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.

• Viable Herbals
• Cyberherbs
• For the pharmacist
• 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.

• Guide to Supplemental Medicine
• Search Herbal Safety
• Herbs for Health
• Ginseng claims
• Viable herbals
• For the pharmacist

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 Matt and Joe enhancing their physical endurance and athletic performance with ginseng. Make sure to compare the various forms of ginseng in your discussion and address any potential problems with long term usage.