Number: 700/2/98
Title: Natural and Unnatural Substances Related
to Human Health
Coordinator(s): J.G.
Topliss - Access to
list of members
Completion Date: 2002 - project completed
Objective:
To prepare an article for publication to show that in terms of human
health it is too simplistic to regard all natural substances as
good and all unnatural ones as bad - a widely held misconception
by the general public. The article would be of a scholarly character
but designed to interest and educate the general reader. It is intended
to be illustrative and concise rather than encyclopedic in character.
Initial publication is targeted for Pure and Aplied Chemistry
which would permit reproduction in whole or in part or adaptation
for other publications. The article could also be brought to the
attention of the news media and could thus serve as a source for
reporters interested in writing on this topic in magazines and newspapers.
Description:
There is a widespread belief on
the part of the general public that natural substances are inherently
superior to synthetic substances with regard to efficacy and safety
in matters related to human health. This question is examined by
reviewing the therapeutic use of drugs and herbal medicine preparations,
the role of vitamins and nutrients and the effects of toxic substances.
A comparison of the characteristics of natural and synthetic substances
within these categories shows a similar range of favorable and unfavorable
effects. It is apparent that molecular structure and dose determine
the effect of substances on human health, not whether they are of
natural or synthetic origin.
Progress:
The article is structured to comprise the following sections: