Rescuing Cacti
The Tucson Cactus and Succulent Society has one mission-- to save and protect cacti and other succulents. Since its founding in 1999, the society has saved over 120,000 plants. We meet society members as they work with landowners to remove the cacti from a large family-owned property turned subdivision and replant the succulents at the Waterman Restoration Site.
Miracle Medicine
Dr. Ski Chilton has dedicated his life to helping people around the world overcome health challenges to live more fulfilled and joyful lives, but he says his latest discovery is the most important thing he’s ever done. Chilton and his team at the University of Arizona believe they have discovered an enzyme that is at the very heart of COVID-19 mortality. His lab is now leading an international effort to develop an inhibitor to this enzyme that might drastically reduce the risk of severe disease. He hopes it could serve as a miracle medicine in places with low vaccination rates, such as Africa.
Digging for the Root
Modern medicine has made many life-saving and life-extending advancements, but for a growing number of people, it isn’t enough. Millions worldwide are instead embracing a more natural and organic approach to health remedies, therapies, and cures, including plant medicines that are centuries old. Carla Vargas-Frank has witnessed this paradigm shift firsthand in her herbalism practice, and she reflects on why so many people—and in particular, so many marginalized people—are turning to the earth in search of healing. This story first aired in October 2019
An Arizona Sunset from Gates Pass
Arizona sunsets are so iconic that they inspired the design of the state flag. One of the most popular spots to catch one in Southern Arizona is Gates Pass. Hundreds of locals and tourists flock there every evening. It becomes the stage for a unique blend of human interactions and you never know what you’ll find or who you’ll meet. The scenic overlook is a short drive from downtown Tucson and the University of Arizona, but the steep mountains, saguaro stands, and dramatic views feel like another world.
AZPM is a service of the University of Arizona and our broadcast stations are licensed to the Arizona Board of Regents who hold the trademarks for Arizona Public Media and AZPM. We respectfully acknowledge the University of Arizona is on the land and territories of Indigenous peoples.
By submitting your comments, you hereby give AZPM the right to post your comments and potentially use them in any other form of media operated by this institution.