Kat Arney gets to the bottom of the story of phenolphthalein – a chemical with two very different uses. If you've measured pH in a classroom or had some trouble in the bathroom, you may have met this compound before.

A biologically active compound from the biblical balm of Gilead, said to 'heal the sin-sick soul'

Gege Li on the compound formerly known by the no-nonsense name 'very fast death factor'

Florence Schechter introduces an ancient, but effective, treatment for painful attacks of gout

What links blue jeans to ancient British warriors? Mike Freemantle discovers the blue dye with a colourful history

The latest in an alarming trend of novel psychoactive substances being mis-sold at festivals as traditional street drugs, putting users at risk

As hayfever season comes to a close, Katrina Krämer examines antihistamines. From calming down a hyperactive immune system to increasing cognitive abilities, these small molecules have a big impact.

Kat Arney finds out about the 'toxic caterpillar' chemical that will make your skin crawl

Michael Freemantle introduces a tear gas used by the British army in the first world war, picked, in part, because of our access to seaweed

Brian Clegg on the almond flavour compound that gives your taste buds a treat and may help rescue survivors from a disaster