Chemistry In Its Element

Kat Arney gets to the bottom of the story of phenolphthalein – a chemical with two very different uses. If you've measured pH in a classroom or had some trouble in the bathroom, you may have met this compound before. 

A biologically active compound from the biblical balm of Gilead, said to ‘heal the sin-sick soul’

Gege Li on the compound formerly known by the no-nonsense name 'very fast death factor'

Florence Schechter introduces an ancient, but effective, treatment for painful attacks of gout

What links blue jeans to ancient British warriors? Mike Freemantle discovers the blue dye with a colourful history

The latest in an alarming trend of novel psychoactive substances being mis-sold at festivals as traditional street drugs, putting users at risk

As hayfever season comes to a close, Katrina Krämer examines antihistamines. From calming down a hyperactive immune system to increasing cognitive abilities, these small molecules have a big impact.

Kat Arney finds out about the 'toxic caterpillar' chemical that will make your skin crawl

Michael Freemantle introduces a tear gas used by the British army in the first world war, picked, in part, because of our access to seaweed

Brian Clegg on the almond flavour compound that gives your taste buds a treat and may help rescue survivors from a disaster

How the ‘world’s most wonderful mineral’ became one of the world’s biggest health hazards

Kat Arney investigates the chemicals responsible for giving bruises their hue and colouring your poo

Katrina Krämer examines the overdose antidote that has saved tens of thousands of lives

A 1960s breakthrough in pain relief that now fuels the opioid crisis

How a waxy mixture from a sheep's fleece helped create a global fashion brand

Ben Valsler with the story of Charlotte Figi, Dravet syndrome and the cannabis compound controlling her condition.

Brian Clegg on a compound that keeps us well fed and looking radiant

Katrina Krämer asks if an essential blood-thinning medicine ended Joseph Stalin’s 30-year rule over the Soviet Union

Discover bat-borne-bombs and a classic chemistry textbook, as Mike Freemantle examines the history of kerosene

One mineral form may look like gold, but Brian Clegg isn't fooled by the value of iron sulfides