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Smells can help restore memories

Posted by Stuart Farrimond ⋅ May 30, 2014 ⋅ Leave a comment

Freshly cut grass, rain falling on sun-baked tarmac, the cologne of your first love… we all have smells that stir up special, personal memories. For me, the smell of wood smoke evokes memories of camping as a child. A close friend told me that, for him, even the faintest whiff of a burning mosquito coil … Continue reading →

What’s inside that energy drink? Sugar, acid, caffeine + ‘fairy dust’

Posted by Stuart Farrimond ⋅ May 26, 2014 ⋅ 4 Comments

It is 7 a.m. and I am investigating the world’s most popular mind-altering drug. Having scrutinised the latest data, it’s time for a hands-on experiment. The substance in question is a potent white powder called 1.3 7- trimethylxanthine. Its use has reached endemic levels in children – and health care professionals are concerned. You will … Continue reading →

‘Breastfeeding is best’ unless you’ve been drinking alcohol

Posted by Stuart Farrimond ⋅ May 12, 2014 ⋅ Leave a comment

Being a medically trained doctor, I have learnt to always be on my guard. Not only for those inflight medical emergencies (of which I have experienced) and people collapsing in the street, but for the less urgent “will you have a look at my rash?” questions posed by neighbours. Even at parties I must be … Continue reading →