For thousands of years, people have experimented with plants as a way to cure sickness, conquer infection, and increase longevity. Now, medical researchers are tapping into this vast treasure trove of folk knowledge in their quest for modern drugs to fight cancer and other menacing diseases.
Ancient Roots, Modern Medicine is a three-part series that explores this amazing convergence of old and new (from Jordan - The Middle East, The Borderlands - USA/Mexico, Curaçao - The Caribbean). The documentaries, produced by the award-winning Leading Object Media Group (now known as Innovative Media Research and Extension), present fascinating cultures around the globe that still practice ancient ways. The series also tracks intrepid scientists in their exploration for new cures based on medicinal plants. As the research moves forward, both the botanical wealth and traditional wisdom are under attack by human encroachment and environmental impacts of the 21st. Century. It is an epic struggle as science races against time.
Awards
Funded by the IALC The International Arid Lands Consortium (IALC) is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to exploring the problems and solutions unique to arid and semiarid regions.
Leading Object Program, design, and summary ©2004, NMSU Board of Regents, all rights reserved. Leading Object is a trademark of New Mexico State University's Cooperative Extension Service.
Contact the webmaster to report any problems with this site.
New Mexico State University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and educator. NMSU and the U.S. Department of Agriculture cooperating.
