Onions are probably the only vegetable that makes you take note of their strong, pungent smell and can make you shed tears (other than their skyrocketing prices). While onions have over 85% water, tiny amounts of protein, fat and fibre, another significant contribution comes from carbohydrates that account for around 8-10%. Onions are also rich […]
Perhaps none of us cared when we heard that 3% of the Earth comprises of Sulphur. Old legends used to claim that, and based on the most recent estimates, it was found to be true. It was the first time scientists had come up with some conclusive geochemical evidence. Did you know all life on […]
The chocolate market is ever-growing. High-end manufacturers are trying to stick to refined taste and high quality. However, are you aware of the reason behind the change in taste? Firstly, the three main ingredients of chocolate are cocoa butter, cocoa powder, and sugar. The butter and power are extracted from the beans of Theobroma cacao […]
If you ever spend enough time around #plantDads or #plantMoms you will find them sharing secrets or singing a lullaby to their #plantbabies. When you probe a little more, they might argue that their plants listen to what they say and I have seen a couple of #plantparents say that the plants respond to their […]
Looks like they do! After spending years researching on the ‘sensitive plant’ – mimosa, Monica Gagliano found some interesting traits. We all know Mimosa pudica is a plant known for its defensive techniques and we have covered it many times on our blog too. When it feels something hostile, the leaves of the mimosa curl up or […]
Dogs, cobras, cows, cats, and many other animals find a mention when it comes to lending their names and posture to various yogic poses. Some of the poses or asanas also depict the birds. While it is interesting that these asanas are named after animals, it is not clear if they were named so just […]
What if leaves can walk? When you look at a leaf during this season that seems to walk and nibble at other leaves, you might find a small face and pointy legs. When a giant Malaysian leaf insect is nibbling on the leaves of a guava or mango tree, you’ll have to look closely. These […]
Can plants use techniques to keep unwanted guests away? Kind of enforcing boundaries where they keep certain visitors out while attracting others? It seems that way when you see the plight of ants that try to steal sweet nectar away from them. Although the ants often mutualize with seed dispersals for plants, they rarely participate […]
Natural resin is one of the most versatile substances that you can find. It is a sticky substance that is secreted generally by coniferous trees as a means of protection. It is toxic towards insects and herbivores and helps to keep the tree protected from harm. Resin has been harvested and used by humans since […]