Journal

Notes on pharmacology, formulation and what we're learning in the lab.

Why most curcumin doesn't work. 9 May 2026 · 3 min read Why most curcumin doesn't work.Curcumin is one of the most-studied molecules in supplements. It's also one of the worst-absorbed. A standard 500mg capsule of turmeric extract delivers a curcumin blood concentration so low it's borderline undetectable in many studies. The molecule that the research...
The melatonin dose debate. 9 May 2026 · 3 min read The melatonin dose debate.Walk through any pharmacy in Singapore and the melatonin doses on shelf will start at 5mg and run up to 10mg. Walk... Cortisol isn't the villain. Read the curve. 24 Apr 2026 · 3 min read Cortisol isn't the villain. Read the curve.We've made cortisol the villain of modern life. The reality is more interesting and a lot more useful. What "standardised to 0.8% valerenic acid" actually means. 17 Apr 2026 · 3 min read What "standardised to 0.8% valerenic acid" actually means.Valerian root powder is not valerian extract. The standardisation spec on the label is the difference. Magnesium glycinate is not bisglycinate. Here's why it matters. 10 Apr 2026 · 3 min read Magnesium glycinate is not bisglycinate. Here's why it matters.The label says glycinate. The form on shelf is often a mix, sometimes mostly oxide. The forms behave differently.