Season 1 · Episode 15
The Apothecary Diaries · S1E15
Aired on January 21, 2024
Science entries in this episode
Fugu and Tetrodotoxin
In The Apothecary Diaries, Maomao loves fugu and its poison. We explain tetrodotoxin, how it paralyzes, and why there's no antidote.
Saxitoxin and Toxic Shellfish
In The Apothecary Diaries, unknown seaweed sends a bureaucrat into a coma. We explain saxitoxin, red tides, and why some shellfish can kill.
Salting and Brining
In The Apothecary Diaries, Maomao dates a batch of seaweed using her knowledge of brining. We explain how salt preserves food, and why it eventually fails.