Research Review: Implications of Climate Change for Medicinal Plant Distribution and Composition

By Mariann Garner-Wizard
The Alliance of World Scientists released a “Warning to Humanity” in 2017 regarding the danger to Earth and its resources due to human damage. A new “Scientists’ Warning,” published in January 2020 in Planta Medica, focused on the effects of climate change, habitat loss, and overharvesting on medicinal plants in particular. In addition to competition for resources like land and water, medicinal plants are also impacted on a microscopic level: phenological changes, including differing levels of potent bioactive compounds, have been recorded. Read more >>

Food as Medicine Update: Chia (Salvia hispanica, Lamiaceae)

By Jenny Perez, Juliette Coronado, and Hannah Bauman
Many in the United States likely associate chia with terra cotta figurines and a catchy jingle. In its native Mexico and Guatemala, however, the chia seed has served as a remedy for fatigue, infections, and skin conditions for millennia. The tiny seeds pack an oversized punch in the nutrition department as well, providing greater and more complete amounts of essential nutrients including protein, fatty acids, and more. Read more >>

ABC Launches Expansion Plan with Purchase of Neighboring Property

By Hannah Bauman
In February 2020, the American Botanical Council (ABC) closed on the purchase of a residential property that abuts its property line. This investment will usher in an exciting expansion phase for the organization and its nonprofit research and educational mission. Plans for the future growth of ABC include many possibilities, including an expanded herbal library and classrooms for staff and local educators. Read more >>