Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites no longer respond to antimicrobial agents such as natural or synthetic drugs that kill or inhibit the growth of these organisms. Antimicrobials are medicines used to prevent and treat infections in humans, animals, and plants. They include antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitics, and arguably rank among […]
Many herbs used in cooking and teas have medicinal properties. Oregano, for example, is an excellent cough suppressant. Rosemary has been used to relieve muscle aches, and thyme is effective against upset stomach and diarrhea. Mint is known as a remedy for digestive problems. It’s important to note, though, that despite the fact that herbs […]
As the world’s population grows, so does the need for proteins to ensure healthy diets. But current practices to produce protein, such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products, are unsustainable and harmful for the environment. Whether red or white, meats require prodigious amounts of water to produce them, both to raise the animals […]
The frontline of climate change and its devastating impact is now centered in Africa, in particular the Sahel region, located on the southern edge of the Sahara Desert. Ongoing conflicts due to the lack of resources, droughts and food shortages have made the region one of the poorest places on Earth and induced mass migrations […]
First, the world moved to plastics for anything and everything as it was a cheap alternative to other materials. Then, once we understood that petroleum-based plastics are bad for the environment – companies had unleashed more than 8 trillion kilos of the stuff on the world by 2018 – on came the advent of bioplastics. […]
Bacteria can fight such medical conditions as cancer, obesity and diabetes, acne, and malaria. Each person’s skin and large intestine harbor a complex array of microorganisms, called microbiota, that affect many aspects of their health and physiology, the way in which a living organism or bodily part functions. Recent studies show that some of these bacteria […]
Today we commemorate Earth Day. Started in 1970, the celebration has turned into a global event with people far and wide demonstrating just how much they care about protecting the Earth. This year’s theme is End Plastic Pollution. There are many ways to get involved: If you are not yet familiar with Earth Day and […]
Have you heard of plants capable of extracting minerals from the ground while stopping erosion and decontaminating the soil? That’s what plants called hyperaccumulators do. A hyperaccumulator is a plant that can grow in places containing very high levels of metals, absorbing them through their roots. They concentrate extremely high levels of metals in their tissues. […]
