The History of Plants by Plantrums

The Poison Crop That Built Empires

Megan Brame — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 20:45:59 GMT

Did you know the potato is a game-changer that shaped the course of civilization? 🥔 Join me as we explore the fascinating journey of this humble plant, from its toxic beginnings in the Andes to its role in feeding empires, fueling revolutions, and even making its way to outer space. This episode dives into the ethnobotany, history, and chemistry behind the potato, revealing how it transformed humanity’s survival and innovation.

Chapters

0:00 Intro

1:03 Part 1: Born in the Andes

5:14 Part 2: Suspicious roots and great hunger

16:09 Part 3: Inside a tuber

19:51 Part 4: Modern spuds, future worlds

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The Mysterious Origins of the Snake Plant

Megan Brame — Fri, 02 Jan 2026 22:00:00 GMT

You may know it as a powerhouse air cleaning houseplant but the snake plant (Dracaena trifasciata) has a wilder history than most people know. From protecting grave sites to helping astronauts breathe, the snake plant has lived many lives.

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A Year Ago I Had An Idea... (2025 review)

Megan Brame — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 18:52:09 GMT

A recap of 2025 and what to expect in 2026. Thank you for hanging out with me this year!

Chapters

0:00 Intro

4:10 Megan's 2026 plans

9:06 Plantrums' 2026 plans

13:57 FAQ

14:19 Why BCE/CE?

15:01 Why no Aztec human sacrifice coverage?

15:45 Why do you hate on George Washington?

16:34 When did you start getting into plants?

17:33 Ever afraid you'll get bored with plants?

18:51 What's your background?

21:35 No, what's your plant background?

23:08 Why the difference in Patreon and YouTube memberships?

24:01 Why do you pronounce words like that?

24:09 The story behind Jimmy Bagels

25:31 Can you help me with my plant?

27:21 Do you use AI?

29:20 Where do you get your stock footage?

29:55 Why do you put your sources in pinned comments?

30:14 Are you afraid someone will steal your ideas?

31:15 How long does it take you to make a video?

31:40 What's the hardest part?

32:03 What's your gear setup?

33:15 What's your favorite plant?

33:52 What's your favorite episode?

34:53 What else is there to say?

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The Beautiful Assassin: Hemlock’s Toxic Tale

Megan Brame — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 22:00:00 GMT

This episode dives deep into the history of poison hemlock—a plant so deceptively beautiful it changed the course of philosophy, law, medicine, and mythology. From its ancient beginnings to its infamous role in the death of Socrates, this unassuming weed has shaped civilizations and continues to intrigue botanists and historians alike.

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Did This Plant Really Start Empires?

Megan Brame — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Black pepper is more than just a spice; it’s a force that changed the world! In this episode of "The History of Plants," I explore the incredible journey of Piper Nigrum and talk about how this spice transformed food, medicine, trade, and even empires. From ancient rituals to global economies, black pepper has been a symbol of power, a culinary marvel, and a scientific curiosity. Did you know its active compound, piperine, boosts nutrient absorption and might even help fight cancer? Join me to uncover fascinating ethnobotany facts, the cultural history of plants, and the science behind their lasting impact.

Chapters

0:00 Intro

00:31 Part 1: A Powerful Vine

05:45 Part 2: Black Gold

10:18 Part 3: A Spicy Defense

14:58 Part 4: A Cultural Afterlife

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How a backyard weed changed history

Megan Brame — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 20:03:13 GMT

Our latest episode explores the complex history of "Phytolacca americana," also known as pokeweed, a plant with a dual nature as both a medicine and a poison. We dive into its traditional uses in herbalism, its role in food, and its surprising connection to "Elvis poke salad." This plant demands respect, especially when foraging, as its toxic properties can be dangerous if not prepared correctly.

Chapters:

0:00 Intro

00:34 Part 1: An All-American Wildcard

05:08 Part 2: Plant of the People

09:37 Part 3: Chemistry and Consequences

14:11 Part 4: The Lasting Legacy

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Corn's Wild Story You Never Learned in School 🌽

Megan Brame — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 02:05:12 GMT

🌽 Ever wonder how a wild grass became one of the most influential crops in human history? Join me in exploring the incredible story of corn, the plant that transformed economies, diets, and even civilizations! From its humble beginnings as teosinte in Mexico's Balsas River Valley to its role as a global powerhouse, this episode of "The History of Plants" dives deep into the fascinating evolution of maize and its impact on the world.

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The Deadliest Plant in Your Garden?

Megan Brame — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 20:44:54 GMT

This episode dives into the dark history and lasting legends of Wolbane (Aconitum/Monkshood)—the “queen of poisons.” Unpack how this deceptively beautiful flower shaped myth, medicine, and murder, from werewolf lore to ancient crimes. Learn why even a touch is dangerous and why it’s haunted the imagination for centuries.

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The Plant That Saved Humanity from Extinction

Megan Brame — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 20:34:54 GMT

Uncover the shocking true story of the plant that changed medicine—and the course of empires. This episode dives into the legacy of Cinchona, the tree behind quinine, the world’s first real malaria treatment. Learn how quinine fueled centuries of colonial power struggles, prompted bold smuggling operations, and sparked both scientific revolutions and scandal. Explore its role in global health, mythology, and cultural obsession, and see why this “miracle cure” had a dark side that echoes through history.

Perfect for fans of weird botany, scandalous plant stories, and history’s most unlikely game-changers.

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How Coffee Changed the World Forever

Megan Brame — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 21:00:00 GMT

From mystical rituals in Ethiopia to fueling revolutions in Europe, coffee has shaped culture, commerce, and controversy for over a thousand years. This episode dives into the hidden history of Coffea arabica—a bean that became both a sacred drink and a global obsession.

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Opium Poppy: The Flower That Shaped Empires 🌺

Megan Brame — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 20:44:36 GMT

Join me as I explore how this unassuming plant evolved from a Neolithic food source into a global force that redefined medicine, fueled wars, and inspired poets. From ancient Egypt’s rituals to the opium wars, this flower’s journey is one of contradictions—healing and harm, relief and dependence.

Subscribe for more History of Plants & wild botany: /@plantrums

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🪴 Resources & Links

• Patreon (commentary & early access): https://patreon.com/plantrums

• Etsy (plant cuttings & tools): https://heyplantrums.etsy.com

• Merch: https://the-beige-house.myspreadshop.com/

• Gear I use: https://www.plantrums.com/resources

💜 Stay Connected

Blog: plantrums.com

• TikTok: @plantrums

• Instagram: @plantrums

Some links may be affiliate URLs which earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Plantrums!

Chapters

0:00 Intro

0:44 Part 1 - An Ancient Flower

4:16 Part 2 - A Plant of Empires

11:12 Part 3 - Chemistry of Control

13:53 Part 4 - The Global Poppy Effect

16:49 Part 5 - A Legacy in Bloom

Credits

Music: AudioHero / Envato Elements

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The Shocking Myths and Secrets Behind Cinnamon

Megan Brame — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 20:37:03 GMT

From its mysterious origins in the laurel family to its role in myths, rituals, and even colonial conquest, cinnamon's legacy is anything but ordinary. Did you know what’s sitting in your pantry might be an impostor? I'll share the wild truth about the great cinnamon switch, from the difference between true cinnamon and cassia to the surprising health risks hiding in plain sight.

This episode of *The History of Plants* dives deep into the ethnobotany, history, and botany of cinnamon, revealing captivating stories of mythical cinnamon birds, ancient embalming rituals, and the dark side of colonial spice wars.

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Monstera Deliciosa: From Jungle Survivor to Icon 🌿

Megan Brame — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 20:37:47 GMT

Join me as we uncover the incredible journey of the Monstera Deliciosa 🌿—from its humble beginnings as a jungle survivor to its rise as a global design icon. In this episode, I’ll share the fascinating history, biology, and cultural impact of this beloved plant, revealing its prehistoric roots, its surprising uses in traditional medicine, and even the secrets behind its iconic fenestrated leaves.

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3 Killer Plants That Don’t Even Need to Move 🌱

Megan Brame — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 20:38:25 GMT

🌱 Join me in this special bonus episode as we explore "3 Killer Plants That Don’t Even Move"! Celebrate 10,000 subscribers with me as we uncover the wild, weird, and wonderfully botanical stories of the Venus Fly Trap, Nepenthes, and Genlisea. These predators may not move, but their evolutionary genius will blow your mind! From the Venus Fly Trap's ingenious double-tap rule to the Nepenthes' collaborative strategy and Genlisea's underground meat grinder, I’m sharing my favorite finds and fascinating facts about these botanical wonders.

This channel is all about ethnobotany, the history of plants, and the strange brilliance of nature. My personal tips, fun facts, and deep dives into botany education make learning about plants more exciting than ever. 🌿 Whether you're a lifelong plant nerd or just curious, there's something here for you!

💡 Don’t forget to hit that subscribe button, like the video, and tap the notification bell so you never miss out on my latest videos. Your support helps me continue sharing these incredible plant stories. Want to help even more? Download my FREE plant guide and let’s grow even greener together!

Thanks for being part of this amazing milestone. Here’s to more nerdy, plant-filled adventures ahead! Stay curious, and don’t forget to flourish! 🌟

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Venus Flytrap: The Plant That Breaks Nature’s Rules

Megan Brame — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 20:40:32 GMT

Step into the boggy, sunlit wetlands of the Carolinas with me as I uncover the fascinating story of the Venus Flytrap—the plant that breaks nature’s rules! 🌱 This incredible predator defies expectations, thriving in nutrient-poor soil by actively hunting its prey with precision and intelligence. From its curious discovery by European naturalists to sparking one of science’s greatest debates, this botanical marvel has captured imaginations for centuries.

Join me as I explore its unique biology, the groundbreaking research of Charles Darwin, and how this "carnivorous vegetable" became a pop culture icon (yes, even inspiring Little Shop of Horrors!). But the Venus flytrap’s incredible story doesn’t end there—this fragile species faces a fight for survival, and together we’ll learn how conservation efforts are working to protect this living wonder.

If you love uncovering the weird and wild side of nature, don’t forget to hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode! Let's keep celebrating the mysterious and awe-inspiring power of evolution while helping preserve these treasures for future generations. 🌍 Stay curious, and let’s flourish together! 🌟

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Soma: The Lost Plant That Promised Immortality 🌱

Megan Brame — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 20:41:04 GMT

What if there was a plant so divine it was worshiped as a god and promised immortality? 🌱 In this episode of The History of Plants, I dive into the enduring mystery of Soma—the lost plant that captivated ancient Vedic traditions and continues to intrigue scholars and mystics today. Join me as we explore its origins in Vedic India, its role in sacred rituals, and the vivid descriptions of its transformative powers in ancient texts like the Rigveda. Could it grant immortality, divine visions, and a connection to the gods? And why has its true identity been lost to time?

From the intriguing theories about its identity—including ephedra, Amanita muscaria, and even cannabis—to the meticulous rituals that turned it into a "drink of the gods," this video unpacks Soma's historical, spiritual, and cultural significance. Whether you're fascinated by ancient plants, history, or the search for meaning, this episode is for you!

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to join me on more adventures through the history of plants. Stay curious, stay green, and let’s flourish together! 🌿✨

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The Orchid's Dark Past: Obsession, Mystery, and Survival 🌸

Megan Brame — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 20:43:43 GMT

Step into the mesmerizing world of orchids with me as we uncover "The Orchid's Dark Past: Obsession, Mystery, and Survival 🌸." From their ancient origins 200 million years ago to their role in Victorian-era orchid mania and modern conservation battles, orchids have captured humanity's imagination like no other plant. 🌺 Explore their fascinating journey through time, from ancient Greece and Chinese medicine to their symbolic ties to fertility, royalty, and even danger.

In this episode, I’ll share how these exquisite blooms became symbols of love, power, and obsession, driving explorers to the brink of peril and fueling a global trade with both beauty and controversy. Discover stories of courage, like the tale of Edmund Albius, the enslaved boy who revolutionized vanilla cultivation, and learn how orchids have shaped cultures, legends, and even science, inspiring Charles Darwin himself.

Join me as I reveal shocking truths about orchid conservation, the dark illegal trade, and the fight to protect these fragile treasures from extinction. Don’t miss this thrilling tale of resilience, passion, and survival. 💡 If you love unraveling mysteries of the natural world, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and hit that notification bell to support the channel and stay tuned for future episodes.

Let’s continue this conversation—how do orchids inspire you? Share your thoughts in the comments and let’s keep curiosity blooming! 🌸 Stay curious, stay inspired, and keep flourishing!

#forgottenhistory #orchidhunter #orchidmania #floralfascination #orchidconservation

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The Blue Lotus: Egypt's Sacred & Scandalous Bloom 🌸

Megan Brame — Sun, 25 May 2025 15:45:00 GMT

Discover the fascinating history and allure of the Blue Lotus, Egypt's sacred and scandalous bloom 🌸. In this episode of "The History of Plants," I explore how this striking flower captivated the hearts of ancient civilizations. From its symbolic ties to gods like Ra and Nefertim to its mysterious role in rituals, parties, and even secretive gatherings, the Blue Lotus held a profound place in Egyptian culture. Was it purely spiritual, or did its effects extend into the earthly and intoxicating?

Join me as I uncover its journey through centuries—from the Nile's sacred waters to the far reaches of Mesopotamia, Greece, and beyond. Revealing its psychoactive properties, mystical symbolism, and endangered status today, this episode is a deep dive into the bloom that has fascinated humans for millennia.

If you love exploring ancient history, plant lore, and untold stories, this one's for you. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to support the channel and stay updated on my latest videos. Let’s keep the story of the Blue Lotus alive! 🌿✨

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

00:56 - The Blue Lotus in Ancient Egypt

07:05 - The Blue Lotus: A Love Story

11:00 - The Blue Lotus Beyond Egypt

12:06 - The Blue Lotus in the Ancient World

16:40 - The Blue Lotus Fades from History

17:19 - The Blue Lotus Resurges Today

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Henbane: The Dark Plant Behind Witches & Warriors

Megan Brame — Wed, 07 May 2025 20:34:26 GMT

Step into the mysterious world of henbane, the dark plant entwined with witches, warriors, and ancient rituals. In this captivating episode of "The History of Plants," I explore henbane's shadowy past—from its role in Viking berserker rage to its eerie presence in witchcraft and medieval poisonings. Discover how this "stinky nightshade" has influenced history, mythology, and even modern medicine. What secrets lie in its powerful chemistry, and how did it blur the lines between healing and harm, reality and hallucination?

Join me as I uncover the untamed power of henbane and its haunting legacy. If you’re into tales of ancient plants, folklore, and the strange ways nature and humanity intertwine, this episode is for you!

Chapters:

0:00 Intro

00:54 - Henbane Origins and History

04:05 - The Chemistry Behind Henbane's Power

7:09 - Henbane: Catalyst for Berserker Rage

10:51 - Henbane in Flying Ointments

12:45 - Henbane and Witch Trials

13:46 - Henbane in Literature and Culture

Sources:

https://poisonousplants.cvmbs.colostate.edu/plant/6

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4224707/

https://academic.oup.com/fqs/article/doi/10.1093/fqsafe/fyad043/7313441?login=false

https://www.summitcountyutah.gov/1238/12136/Black-Henbane

https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/816657-overview?form=fpf

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557825/

https://sites.evergreen.edu/plantchemeco/henbane-medicine-andor-magic/

https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/antiquity/article/evidence-of-the-intentional-use-of-black-henbane-hyoscyamus-niger-in-the-roman-netherlands/A06E000B17E1642C878E469157D5131C

https://en.natmus.dk/historical-knowledge/denmark/prehistoric-period-until-1050-ad/the-viking-age/religion-magic-death-and-rituals/a-seeress-from-fyrkat/

https://www.fs.usda.gov/wildflowers/ethnobotany/Mind_and_Spirit/henbane.shtml

https://www.jstor.org/stable/4251861

https://brewery.org/library/ReinHeit.html

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/280210350_POISONS_POISONING_AND_THE_DRUG_TRADE_IN_ANCIENT_ROME

https://sites.usc.edu/mousavi/research/neural-probes-for-acetylcholine/

https://archive.org/details/SnorreSturlesons000366019v0SnorReyk/page/n9/mode/2up

https://www.wvnstv.com/digital-exclusives/five-of-the-best-superpowers-to-have/

https://www.thetoptens.com/list/most-wanted-superpowers/

https://www.comicbookherald.com/superpowers-reviewed-01-flight/

https://www.thisamericanlife.org/178/superpowers

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_Horns_of_Gallehus

https://archive.org/details/hin-wel-all-00002756-001/page/n193/mode/2up

https://www.monstrous.com/flying-ointment/

https://doctorlib.org/herbal/encyclopedia-psychoactive-plants-ethnopharmacology/164.html

https://www.alchemy-works.com/hyoscyamus_niger.html#gsc.tab=0

https://www.nesl.edu/blog/detail/a-true-legal-horror-story-the-laws-leading-to-the-salem-witch-trials

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hawley_Harvey_Crippen

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c98425713q4o

https://www.montana.edu/extension/invasiveplants/documents/publications/extension_publications/black_henbane.pdf

Karsten’s work: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31404578/

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The Dramatic History of Tea: Spies, Rebellion, and Fortune

Megan Brame — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 21:54:13 GMT

The story of tea is anything but ordinary—it’s a tale of spies, rebellion, and fortune that changed the world! 🌍 Join me as we uncover the dramatic history of this beloved beverage, from its legendary origins in ancient China to its role in global power struggles and revolutions. Did you know tea inspired daring espionage missions, ignited rebellions like the Boston Tea Party, and shaped entire economies?

In this episode of "History of Plants," I’ll share compelling stories of cultural exchange, industrial espionage by Robert Fortune, and how tea became a symbol of refinement, resistance, and global connection. Whether it's the tranquil Japanese tea ceremonies or the bustling tea houses of London, every sip you take today is steeped in history.

If you're fascinated by how a humble leaf could influence empires and spark revolutions, this video is for you! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on my latest videos. 🌱 Let’s explore history together—one plant at a time. 🫖✨

Sources:

https://www.tranquiltuesdays.com/resource-library/four-ancient-chinese-poems-about-tea-and-one-symphony

https://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/education/resources/hong-kong-and-the-opium-wars/

https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2015/03/10/392116370/tea-tuesdays-the-scottish-spy-who-stole-chinas-tea-empire

https://archive.org/details/mobot31753002814207/page/n3/mode/2up

https://www.jstor.org/stable/42953862

http://english.cssn.cn/skw_culture/202501/t20250121_5841659.shtml

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_countries_by_tea_consumption_per_capita

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_tea_companies

https://www.bostonteapartyship.com/tea-act

https://www.statista.com/chart/29583/worlds-largest-tea-markets/

https://openknowledge.fao.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/9de9d599-037c-4706-bdf6-3968ba44c3ee/content

https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/blue-plaques/robert-fortune/

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How Grass Shaped the World

Megan Brame — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 21:41:11 GMT

Grass—the silent force that shaped our world 🌍. From the extinction of dinosaurs to the rise of agriculture, this humble plant has profoundly influenced ecosystems, civilizations, and even human survival. Join me as we uncover the incredible history of grass, from its ancient beginnings to its role in transforming landscapes, fueling revolutions, and shaping cultures around the globe. 🌾

In this episode of "The History of Plants," I explore how grasslands became the foundation for agriculture, sparked the Neolithic Revolution, and played a pivotal role in human development. Discover how grass fueled nomadic empires, shaped colonial America’s lawn culture, and even contributed to ecological crises like the Dust Bowl. Plus, learn how modern challenges like climate change and habitat loss threaten these vital ecosystems—and what conservation efforts are doing to preserve them. 🌱

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Begonia's Secret Journey Through Time 🌱

Megan Brame — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 18:04:09 GMT

What if your favorite houseplant held secrets spanning millions of years? 🌱 Join me as I uncover the fascinating story of Begonia’s secret journey through time—an adventure that started in ancient forests and continues today, right on your windowsill. From ancient fossils in Alabama to their rise as Victorian garden treasures, Begonias have captivated hearts across continents and centuries.

Sources:

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Trine-Hvoslef-Eide/publication/226482834_Begonia/links/5c617df5a6fdccb608b8cea5/Begonia.pdf
https://www.staugustine.com/story/lifestyle/home-garden/2022/05/09/versatile-colorful-historic-and-mysterious-begonias/9681074002/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21613093/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35036562/
https://www.begonias.org/resources/about-begonias/
https://archive.org/details/jstor-2993956/page/n1/mode/2up
https://archive.org/details/Ware1893No147/mode/2up
https://archive.org/details/Rerum-medicarum-Nouae-Hispaniae-thesaurus-seu-Plantarum-animalium-mineralium-Mexi-PHAIDRA_o_410673/page/n12/mode/thumb
https://library.brown.edu/projects/rome/people/0236/
https://archive.org/details/isbn_9780548517857/page/14/mode/2up
https://archive.org/details/jstor-2464084/page/n1/mode/2up
https://archive.org/details/cu31924002815763/page/n15/mode/2up
http://archive.org/details/biostor-89306/mode/2up
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37891463/
https://www.greenhousegrower.com/?s=new+begonia
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g55229-d592251-Reviews-Gaylord_Opryland_Garden_Conservatory-Nashville_Davidson_County_Tennessee.html
https://bellagio.mgmresorts.com/en/entertainment/conservatory-botanical-garden.html
https://archive.org/details/mobot31753003082986/page/34/mode/2up?view=theater
https://www.gardenhistorygirl.co.uk/post/gardens-under-glass-the-victorian-conservatory
https://www.christies.com/lot/lot-5514395
https://www.staugustine.com/story/lifestyle/home-garden/2022/05/09/versatile-colorful-historic-and-mysterious-begonias/9681074002/  https://www.uaex.uada.edu/yard-garden/resource-library/plant-week/begonia-10-7-05.aspx
https://english.beijing.gov.cn/specials/beijingmagazine/list/202404/P020240425623560693803.pdf

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Forbidden Flower - The Story of Amaranth

Megan Brame — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 16:19:00 GMT

Join me on an incredible journey through history as we uncover the story of amaranth: the sacred grain that refused to die! 🌾 From its ancient origins in South and Central America to its revered role in Aztec rituals and its dramatic suppression by conquistadors, amaranth's resilience is nothing short of inspiring. I’ll share how this fascinating plant survived near extinction to become a modern superfood packed with nutrition and potential.

Discover how early farmers cultivated this grain, how it was used to create sacred effigies, and how its vibrant colors and nutritional benefits are making a comeback today. You'll hear my personal take on its incredible transformation—from a symbol of life and fertility to a lost treasure rediscovered. Plus, learn why amaranth could play a role in improving global food security.

Sources:

https://cornellbotanicgardens.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/history.panels.pdf
https://www.britannica.com/topic/agriculture/The-Americas
https://mysliceofmexico.ca/2020/10/31/traditional-sweets-alegrias-and-wafers-with-amaranth/
https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2017/05/01/526033083/why-mexican-chefs-farmers-and-activists-are-reviving-the-ancient-grain-amaranth
https://www.ancientgrains.com/amaranth/amaranth-history-and-origin?srsltid=AfmBOopcaA4qygRdLCTGAXs1hjx_Sk8hnkpSyhTGD12jrr3skRi8OCdY
https://hungerandthirstforlife.blogspot.com/2015/10/how-to-pop-amaranth.html
https://foodrevolution.org/blog/what-is-amaranth/
https://wholegrainscouncil.org/whole-grains-101/grain-month-calendar/amaranth-may-grain-month
https://www.wnyc.org/story/225970-last-chance-foods-amaranths-ancient-history/
https://www.banyanbotanicals.com/blogs/wellness/amaranth-porridge-recipe
https://passtheflamingo.com/2017/04/12/ancient-recipe-tzoalli-amaranth-candy-aztec-prehistory-16th-century-ce/
https://seedsofindia.com/products/stem-amaranth
https://nepalitimes.com/banner/the-superfoods-of-the-andes-and-the-himalaya
https://nap.nationalacademies.org/read/11763/chapter/3#35
https://www.ancestry.com/first-name-meaning/amaranth
https://orionmagazine.org/article/soil-and-spirit-amaranth-history/
https://www.amazon.com/Huitzilopochtli-History-Aztec-Human-Sacrifice/dp/1081689552
https://masaamerica.com/2019/06/15/amaranth-and-the-tzoalli-heresy/
https://corn.aae.wisc.edu/Crops/Amaranth.aspx
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/food-science/amaranth-flour
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8871380/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amaranth_(color)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amaranth_(dye)
https://food.berkeley.edu/from-the-field/the-promise-of-amaranth/
https://pure.psu.edu/en/publications/legitimised-violence-in-colonial-spanish-america
https://www.nytimes.com/1984/10/16/science/ancient-forgotten-plant-now-grain-of-the-future.html
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8871380/
https://s3.amazonaws.com/edu.psu.libraries.scholarsphere-prod/store/0bd55218fa1f6260b957a6d27703e16e.pdf

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What Happened To The Plant That Was Worth More Than Gold?

Megan Brame — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 19:41:23 GMT

Get ready to uncover the incredible story of silphium—"The Lost Plant That Shaped Empires 🌱."

This ancient botanical treasure once held the power to control economies, influence empires, and change the course of history. But how could something so valuable vanish forever? Join me as we explore the fascinating rise and tragic disappearance of this extraordinary plant, from its role in Cyrene’s prosperity to its mysterious extinction. Was it overharvesting, climate change, or something more? Let’s dig into the historical, cultural, and environmental lessons Silphium’s story has for us today.

Sources:

https://www.mdpi.com/2571-9408/5/2/51#:~:text=Recently%2C%20a%20new%20candidate%20species,researcher%20in%20Anatolia%20%5B40%5D.&text=These%20include%20parsley%2C%20carrots%2C%20and,depictions%20of%20silphium%2C%20such%20as

https://www.carbonbrief.org/global-extent-of-climate-change-is-unparalleled-in-past-2000-years/

https://www.mdpi.com/2223-7747/10/1/102

https://www.worldhistory.org/Silphium/

https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20170907-the-mystery-of-the-lost-roman-herb

https://www.loebclassics.com/view/pliny_elder-natural_history/1938/pb_LCL392.365.xml

https://archive.org/details/57011150RX4.nlm.nih.gov/page/430/mode/2up?view=theater

https://www.ancientportsantiques.com/a-few-ports/apollonia

https://archive.org/details/naturalhistoryof11855plin/page/396/mode/2up

https://www.penn.museum/sites/expedition/archaic-cyrene-and-the-cult-of-demeter-and-persephone

https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/gsa/geology/article-abstract/26/5/471/206910/Late-Holocene-1500-yr-climatic-periodicities-and?redirectedFrom=fulltext

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The Wild History of Basil: Sacred, Scary, and Strange!

Megan Brame — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 17:19:00 GMT

Imagine an unassuming green leaf that has influenced civilizations, sparked spiritual debates, and maybe even had the power to create scorpions. In this episode, host Megan Brame takes a deep dive into the fascinating history of basil. From its ancient cultural significance in India and Egypt to its tumultuous reception in Greece and Rome, and bizarre associations involving scorpions and supernatural powers, discover how this ubiquitous herb became intertwined with human history. Whether you're a plant enthusiast or just curious about the stories we weave around our natural world, this episode will leave you with a newfound appreciation for basil.

Highlights:

Ancient Origins: Learn about basil's sacred roots in Indian Ayurvedic medicine and its spiritual importance to the Hindu gods Krishna and Vishnu.

Journey Through the Spice Routes: Basil's journey through the Middle East to the Western world and its role in Egyptian burial rituals.

Transformation in Greece and Rome: How basil's name might be tied to royalty or fearsome mythical creatures.

Christian Symbolism: The astonishing story of Empress Helena and basil's sacred status in Greek Orthodox tradition.

Worldwide Traditions: Basil as a symbol of love in Italy, a spiritual protector in West Africa, and a magical remedy in Jewish traditions.

Scorpion Myths: The bizarre beliefs associated with basil with scorpions, including the wild claims from European herbalists and folklorists.

Great Debates: The ongoing controversies about basil's medicinal properties and cultural significance through the ages.

Join Megan Brame as she unravels the captivating tales and surprising controversies surrounding this extraordinary plant. Explore how basil is much more than just an herb – it's a living part of our cultural history.

Sources:

https://www.nparks.gov.sg/nparksbuzz/jan-issue-2021/gardening/basil---the-king-of-herbs

https://nutritionalgeography.faculty.ucdavis.edu/spices/basil/

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/herbal-medicine

https://usbasilconsortium.rutgers.edu/all-about-basil/basil-history-and-culture/

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8326315/

https://books.google.com/books/about/Astrological_Judgement_of_Diseases_from.html?id=dV40F_1e8WcC

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11655157/

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8762307/

https://plantspecialists.com/blog/basil/

https://www.extension.iastate.edu/smallfarms/beauty-basil

https://cornellbotanicgardens.org/explore/exhibits/seeds-of-survival-and-celebration/featured-plants/african-basil/

https://www.bonappetit.com/test-kitchen/ingredients/article/the-etymology-of-basil

https://blog.biodiversitylibrary.org/2017/06/a-pot-of-basil-in-every-household.html

https://academics.hamilton.edu/foodforthought/our_research_files/herbs.pdf

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Gerard

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4488100/#sec2

https://www.missiodeicatholic.org/p/saint-hildegard-von-bingen-herbalist-fb5

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10237160/

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7007616/

"Herbs, Spices, and Flavorings" by Tom Stobart

"A Modern Herbal Volume 1" Mrs. Maud Geiss

Tulsi stories:

https://muse.jhu.edu/pub/267/edited_volume/chapter/2703784

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tulasi_in_Hinduism

The fantastic ancient herbal books:

John Gerard's Herball - https://archive.org/details/mobot31753000817749/page/548/mode/2up

John Parkinson's Theatricum Botanicum - https://www.biodiversitylibrary.org/item/256142

Jan Baptist von Helmont's Ortus medicinae - https://archive.org/details/BIUSante_pharma_011695x01/page/n107/mode/2up

Nicholas Culpeper's The Complete Herbal - https://archive.org/details/b22009863/page/18/mode/2up

Culpeper's Astrological Judgement of Diseases - https://books.google.com/books/about/Astrological_Judgement_of_Diseases_from.html?id=dV40F_1e8WcC

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The Secret Life of Plants: Marcel Vogel's Mind-Blowing Research

Megan Brame — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 21:13:45 GMT

In this captivating episode of The History of Plants, host Megan Brame delves into the fascinating life and research of Marcel Vogel, an IBM scientist turned botanical innovator who dared to explore the uncharted territory of plant consciousness. Learn about Vogel’s near-death experience as a child, his groundbreaking work in phosphor chemistry, and his unexpected venture into the psychic abilities of plants. Discover how he transformed from a prolific inventor at IBM to a passionate advocate for a deeper understanding of the emotional and mental connections between humans and plants. Could plants anticipate danger and respond to human emotions? Tune in to uncover the mind-bending world of Marcel Vogel and his revolutionary theories on the secret language of plants.

Sources:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320164
https://marcelvogellegacy.com/about-us
https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/blog/marcel_vogal/
https://www.satyacenter.com/pages/crystal-wisdom-of-marcel-vogel-chapter1
https://books.google.com/books?id=bgTG1dxoQ8kC&pg=PA191#v=onepage&q&f=false
https://www.electronics-tutorials.ws/blog/wheatstone-bridge.html
https://byjus.com/physics/wheatstone-bridge/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8052213/

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Behind the scenes of the Dieffenbachia episode

Megan Brame — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 12:22:00 GMT

A little commentary on how the first episode came to be and where this podcast is going.

Don't worry, "The history of the history of plants" won't be featured regularly; I'll keep the main stories front and center. If you'd like to hear more commentary episodes, check out Plantrums' Patreon account for behind-the-scenes, plant project fails, and more!

https://patreon.com/Plantrums

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How A Common Houseplant Became a Tool for Terror

Megan Brame — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 23:40:08 GMT

Today, we'll be exploring a plant that's remarkably common, yet holds a history steeped in darkness and intrigue. Dieffenbachia, commonly known as the "dumb cane," is beloved by many for its easy care and subtle beauty, but what lurks beneath its speckled leaves is a story of pain, punishment, and even potential eugenics.

From its native tropical regions of Central and South America to its utilitarian uses during the Victorian era, this unassuming plant has played roles in ancient remedies, Caribbean slave torture, and disturbing Nazi medical experiments. Join me as we unravel the enigmatic past of the Dieffenbachia, exploring how this houseplant was weaponized and the broader implications of botanical knowledge turned toward harm.

Prepare to be captivated and perhaps a little unsettled as we delve into the complex and often sinister history of the dumbcane. Stay tuned, greenies. This is an episode you won't want to miss.

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/calcium-oxalate-crystals

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15862089/

https://www.britannica.com/plant/dumb-cane

https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1046/j.1469-8137.2003.00839.x

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12659098/

https://drexel.edu/legacy-center/blog/overview/2013/december/constantine-hering-the-father-of-american-homeopathy/

https://www.bloomberg.com/profile/company/7564908Z:GR

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neue_Deutsche_Heilkunde

https://who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/yaws

https://academic.oup.com/shm/article-abstract/15/3/481/1669080?redirectedFrom=fulltext

https://naturalhistory.si.edu/education/teaching-resources/life-science/invasive-species

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