Practical Workshop on Phyto-Pharmaceutical Design for Innovative Medical Projects at the College of Medicine – Al-Nahrain University

Under the patronage of the Dean of the College of Medicine at Al-Nahrain University, Professor Dr. Anis Khalil Nayel,

The Department of Pharmacology at the College organized an in-person workshop in collaboration with Assistant Lecturer Montather Abdulsalam Al-Rubaie from Al-Nisour University / College of Pharmacy, entitled:
“The Phyto-Pharmaceutical Design for Innovative Medicinal Applicable Projects: A Workshop for Supervisors and Students”
(Phyto-pharmaceutical design of plant compounds in innovative applied medical projects)

The workshop aimed to:
1. Understand the concept and manufacturing of natural product preparations and their role in modern medicine.
2. Transform theoretical knowledge into applicable medical projects.
3. Design an idea for an innovative therapeutic product or project based on plant sources.
4. Link medicinal plants with evidence-based pharmaceutical research.

The first part of the workshop included a brief introductory lecture on natural compounds and their sources, the factors influencing their variation between different plants or within the same plant, and the methods used for their extraction, separation, and identification. It also addressed the biological activities associated with these natural substances and their use in applied treatments, particularly topical applications for mild to moderate skin conditions.

The lecture further explained how to convert these natural materials into various topical pharmaceutical formulations based on their chemical properties, intended purpose, site of application, and other relevant factors.
The second part of the workshop involved a practical session on preparing different topical formulations, including soaps, creams, and gels in both conventional and medical forms, aimed at treating skin irritation and mild acne cases using natural ingredients such as lavender oil for skin irritation and pigmentation, and tea tree oil to control sebum secretion and manage acne.
Participants actively engaged through questions and discussions regarding the primary materials used in preparation, methods of controlling their interaction with additional ingredients, and the optimal proportions required. At the conclusion of the workshop, samples of the prepared products were distributed to the participants.

Media and Government Communication Division
College of Medicine – Al-Nahrain University