Season 1 · Episode 5
The Apothecary Diaries · S1E5
Aired on November 6, 2023
Science entries in this episode
Clay and Kaolin
In The Apothecary Diaries, clay is used as makeup. We explain kaolinite, its layered structure, its absorbent power, and its uses.
Flame Coloration
In The Apothecary Diaries, flame color serves as a clue. We explain why every metal salt burns a different color.
Galenic Formulations
In The Apothecary Diaries, an ointment gets prepared. We explain galenics: how a medicine's form determines how an active ingredient is absorbed.
Ginger
In The Apothecary Diaries, Maomao prepares ginger pastilles to keep warm. We explain gingerol, TRPV1, and Chinese pharmacopoeia.
Matsutake
In The Apothecary Diaries, Maomao trades premium matsutake. We explain the obligate mycorrhizal symbiosis that makes it impossible to cultivate.