The Chemical Collective is a radio show that dives into the fascinating and complex world of drugs and drug culture. Tune in to hear from expert neuroscientists and experienced neuroscience researchers at UNLV as we cover a range of topics, including the latest research on drug use, the neural mechanism of drug action and abuse, and the cultural significance of drugs in society. Whether you’re a casual listener or a professional in the field, The Chemical Collective will offer you your weekly dose of drug facts while dispelling fiction.
The Chemical Collective Episode 1: The Psychedelic Renaissance
A growing body of scientific evidence suggests that psychedelics may have beneficial effects in the treatment of a range of mental health conditions. In this episode The Chemical Collective discuss the resurgence of interest and research into the therapeutic and medicinal potential of psychedelics.
The Chemical Collective Episode 2: Nicotine
In this episode The Chemical Collective discuss nicotine, a substance found in tobacco plants, that dates back to the indigenous peoples of the Americas who have used tobacco for thousands of years for spiritual, medicinal, and social purposes.
Episode 1 Transcript
Episode 2 Transcript
The Chemical Collective Episode 3: Kratom
Historically, communities have used the leaves of the kratom tree as traditional medicine to minimize and treat pain, gastrointestinal issues, and increase energy levels. In this episode The Chemical Collective discuss the traditional medicine, kratom, and some of its effects on the brain and society.
Episode 3 Transcript
The Chemical Collective Episode 4: Betel
Betel, also known as betel nut or areca nut, is a seed of the fruit of the areca palm tree. In this episode The Chemical Collective discuss the practice of taking betel and its effects on the brain, body, and across cultures.
Episode 4 Transcript
The Chemical Collective Episode 5: Caffeine Part 1 (Coffee)
Coffee is among the most popular beverages around the globe. In this episode The Chemical Collective discuss coffee, its psychoactive component caffeine, and some of their effects on the brain and society.
Episode 5 Transcript
The Chemical Collective Episode 6: Alcohol Part 1 (Whiskey)
Whiskey is a staple at most bars and restaurants and has a history that dates back to ancient times. In this episode The Chemical Collective discuss the alcoholic beverage, whiskey, and some of its effects on the brain and its role through out time.
Episode 6 Transcript
The Chemical Collective Episode 7: 2C-I
2C-I is a synthesized psychedelic with an interesting past. In this episode The Chemical Collective discuss the chemical compound, 2C-I, and some of its effects on the brain and society.
Episode 7 Transcript
The Chemical Collective Episode 8: Mescaline
In this episode The Chemical Collective discuss the psychedelic component of peyote, mescaline, its effects on the brain, and its importance to the Native American Church and society.
Episode 8 Transcript
The Chemical Collective Episode 9: Mandrake
Mandrake, a native plant to the Mediterranean region, is known for its medicinal and psychoactive effects. In this episode The Chemical Collective discuss we dive into the mysterious world of mandrake and discuss its active compound’s effects on the brain, and its role throughout history.
Episode 9 Transcript
The Chemical Collective Episode 10: Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is an ancient medicinal herb that has been used for centuries in traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine. In this episode The Chemical Collective discuss Ashwagandha and discuss its active compound’s effects on the brain as well as society.
Episode 10 Transcript
The Chemical Collective Episode 11: San Pedro
San Pedro is a fast-growing cactus species with a rich history of use by indigenous peoples of the Andean region in their medicinal, spiritual, and religious practices. In this episode The Chemical Collective discuss the San Pedro cactus, its active compound’s effects on the brain, and its use in the past and present.
Episode 11 Transcript
The Chemical Collective Episode 12: Khat
Khat is a flowering plant native to East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula used for centuries for its stimulating and euphoric effects. In this episode The Chemical Collective explore the world of Khat and discuss its active compound's effects on the brain and its role throughout history.
Episode 12 Transcript
The Chemical Collective Episode 13: Alcohol Part 2 (Tequila)
The origin of tequila, an alcoholic beverage made from the blue agave plant, can be traced all the way back to pre-Columbian times. In this episode The Chemical Collective expand on the impact that tequila has on the brain and body as well as its role in society.
Episode 13 Transcript
The Chemical Collective Episode 14: New Insights: Spring 2023 Recap and Future Directions of Neuroscience
In this episode The Chemical Collective have an open discussion about some of the most interesting topics discussed over the semester and highlight the importance of ongoing research into the effects of drugs on the brain and society.
Episode 14 Transcript