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Ian Musgrave

Ian Musgrave

The Conversation

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Does paraquat cause Parkinson’s? Here’s what the evidence says about this common weed killer

Does paraquat cause Parkinson’s? Here’s what the evidence says about this common weed killer

Paraquat is one of the most widely used herbicides around the world. An expert explains what we know about the risk of Parkinson’s disease.

16.06.2026 10

The Conversation

Ian Musgrave

Tea tree oil may affect fertility, the EU says. A pharmacologist explains why that’s so misleading

Tea tree oil has been linked to fertility issues. But the experiments were done in rats. Here’s what else is behind the scary headlines.

27.04.2026 30

The Conversation

Ian Musgrave

What is andrographis, the cold and flu ingredient the TGA says can be fatal?

You can have a severe allergic reaction to this herbal medicine even if you’ve previously taken it without any problems.

10.04.2026 30

The Conversation

Ian Musgrave

Can brevetoxins from algal blooms make me sick? A toxicologist explains

Wave action can produce aerosol droplets containing brevetoxins, and people with asthma are at risk.

17.03.2026 50

The Conversation

Ian Musgrave

Are berries safe to eat? How worried should I be about the pesticide dimethoate?

Australia’s love affair with berries has prompted new advice about a common pesticide. But the risk of harm is low.

14.11.2025 20

The Conversation

Ian Musgrave

How safe are the chemicals in sunscreen? A pharmacology expert explains

The Therapeutic Goods Administration is recommending extra safeguards for two ingredients and a sunscreen ingredient by-product.

16.07.2025 40

The Conversation

Ian Musgrave

Is black mould really as bad for us as we think? A toxicologist explains

We still hear black mould in our homes described as toxic. But it’s the allergies and asthma they trigger we should be more worried about.

06.06.2025 30

The Conversation

Ian Musgrave