Foodie Pharmacology is a science podcast built for the food curious, the flavor connoisseurs, chefs, science geeks, plant lovers and adventurous taste experimenters out in the world! Join American ethnobotanist Dr. Cassandra Quave on this adventure through history, medicine, cuisine and molecules as we explore the amazing pharmacology of our foods.
Episodes
Monday Sep 13, 2021
Monday Sep 13, 2021
You may have heard of the legends of the Norse Beserkers—a fierce group of wild warriors from Scandanavia that were known to enter a trance-like state that allowed them to fight with increased strength and a rage that granted them immunity to many forms of harm in battle. But, did you know that a new theory has emerged that instead of consuming Amanita muscaria mushrooms, a plant may be responsible for achieving the state of berserkeage? A nightshade plant from the same family where we find tomatoes, potatoes and eggplants? Tune in this week as I chat with Dr. Karsten Fatur about his theory concerning the use of the anticholinergic plant henbane (Hyoscyamus niger) by the Vikings! Learn more about Dr. Fatur’s work on ResearchGate.
#henbane #Berserker #Vikings