Under the supervision of the esteemed Dean of the College of Pharmacy, Associate Professor Dr. Sarmed H. Kathem Alkhateeb, the Scientific Affairs Unit in the College of Pharmacy/University of Baghdad, held an in-person scientific seminar entitled “Positive Impact of Natural Source-Derived Medications on Athletes’ Performance” delivered by Associate Professor Dr. Amjed Haseeb Khamees, a faculty member at the Pharmacognosy and Medicinal Plants Department. The seminar aimed to discuss the role of natural-source-derived medications in enhancing athletes’ performance. The main objective was to provide a comprehensive understanding of the therapeutic effectiveness of plants commonly used in sports, while highlighting their potential side effects. The lecture relied on credible scientific evidence to explain how the human body benefits from the bioactive compounds in plants, such as polyphenols, terpenoids, and alkaloids. These compounds have diverse physiological effects, including enhancing vital organ functions, boosting physical performance, and aiding in disease prevention. Additionally, the seminar aimed to equip athletes and coaches with knowledge that enables informed decision-making about using natural supplements to enhance physical fitness and overall performance. The seminar covered several key topics regarding the most important plants and natural supplements on athletic performance. First, ginseng was highlighted for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as its ability to enhance blood circulation and protect against cardiovascular diseases. Studies have shown that ginseng promotes nitric oxide production, improving blood flow and cardiovascular performance. Furthermore, ginseng has anti-obesity effects by stimulating energy expenditure and reducing appetite. The significance of Green Tea as a dietary supplement was also discussed. Green tea boosts the nervous system and increases energy expenditure through thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue. This effect is attributed to its high content of caffeine and catechins, making it an effective option for athletes seeking to optimize their performance and manage their weight. The seminar also addressed ephedrine, which is often combined with caffeine, to improve muscle performance and reduce running times. However, the lecture clarified that using ephedrine alone may not be as effective, noting that its combination with caffeine may enhance weight loss, albeit with mild and temporary side effects.
Other topics discussed included the benefits of Ginger and Ginkgo Biloba. Ginkgo Biloba was emphasized for its ability to improve blood circulation, especially blood flow to the brain, making it effective in enhancing mental performance and addressing conditions like memory loss and headaches. Ginger, on the other hand, helps reduce inflammation and improve digestion, supporting long-term athletic performance.
Finally, the seminar discussed Fenugreek as a supplement that boosts endurance and fatty acid utilization. Studies have indicated that an eight-week regimen of fenugreek supplementation improved testosterone levels and reduced body fat without causing adverse effects, making it a safe and effective choice for athletes during resistance training.
