[MPWG] Botanicals today - real or synthesized?

[Patricia_DeAngelis at fws.gov]

The discussion on taxol last week brings to mind some questions about
sustainable use and conservation....

>Do any dietary supplements contain synthesized compounds instead of the
actual plant (or plant compound) that it was based upon?
>When it comes to botanical drugs, are there any recent publications that
discuss which drugs are still using plant material in their formulations
(versus synthesized compounds)?
>How about any studies that evaluate the cost of synthesizing versus using
plant raw materials in various preparations being used today - is it only
done on a case-by-case basis?

Thanks,
Patricia

Patricia S. De Angelis, Ph.D.
Botanist - Division of Scientific Authority
Chair - Plant Conservation Alliance - Medicinal Plant Working Group
US Fish & Wildlife Service
4401 N. Fairfax Dr., Suite 750
Arlington, VA  22203
703-358-1708 x1753
FAX: 703-358-2276
Working for the conservation and sustainable use of our green natural
resources.
<www.nps.gov/plants/medicinal>