Did you know that many medicines commonly used today have their origins in nature? Substances extracted from plants and used in traditional folk medicine have gradually become the basis of modern medicines thanks to advances in chemistry.

But how does a natural molecule become an active ingredient produced in a laboratory? Why don’t we have to rely on harvesting plants to produce many medicines today? And what advantages does modern chemical synthesis offer?

These questions will be answered in the lecture “From Plant to Pill—The History of Modern Medicines,” which will take place as part of the “Science at cenTTre” outreach event.

From Nature to Modern Pharmacy

The lecture will explore the development of selected well-known and commonly available drugs—from their original natural sources and use in folk medicine to their current forms.

Participants will learn how scientists gradually discovered effective natural molecules, studied their properties, and sought ways to synthesize them in laboratory conditions.

Attention will also be given to why modern chemistry can produce many natural substances more safely, more effectively, and more environmentally friendly, as well as to the benefits of transitioning from extracting substances from plants to their industrial synthesis.

Science That Affects Us All

Medicines are a daily part of our lives, yet their history and the process of their creation remain unknown to most people. This lecture will offer an opportunity to glimpse into the world of chemistry and pharmacy in an accessible and engaging way.

The event will be led by Assoc. Prof. Renata Gašparová, PhD, who will explain to visitors how scientific knowledge and modern chemical technologies help transform natural substances into accessible medicines.

When and where?

Date: Wednesday, November 18, 2026
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Location: NOX, Vajanského 22, Trnava
Speaker: Assoc. Prof. Renata Gašparová, PhD.
Topic: From Plant to Pill—The History of Modern Medicines

Come discover the fascinating connections between nature, chemistry, and modern medicine.

We look forward to welcoming everyone interested in science and new discoveries!