Plants or their chemicals are tested on molecules or cells (in vitro) or in animal models (in vivo). They are significant if independent research groups show similar effects in a variety of different study types for one effect. These studies provide vital information on how, but not if, the plant works on the human brain, though changes in animal behavior indicate that they will. Trials in human subjects are the only way to find out if the traditional use of a plant is backed up by modern medical evidence.
A special room or place where scientists can do specialised work such as research, the testing of chemical substances or the growing of tissues in culture.
A facility where testing, research, experimentation, and sometimes preparation of scientific equipment and substances is carried out. In a hospital, when the word “laboratory” is used alone, it refers to the clinical laboratory.
A room or building equipped for scientific experimentation, research, testing, or clinical studies of materials, fluids, or tissues obtained from patients.