What's On Tap: Upcoming Speakers & Topics
“Traditional Medicine and Modern Science: Improving Health for People and the Planet”
SDBG Director of Medicinal Plants Research Ben Naman, PhD
Thursday, November 6, 2025 – 6:30 – 7:30 PM

What we know about medicinal plants stems from thousands of years of traditional ecological knowledge researched by indigenous peoples around the world. Today, this wisdom continues to inspire and accelerate the development of natural ingredients for FDA-approved drugs, consumer products, flavors, fragrances, and beyond. Join SDBG Director of Medicinal Plants Research Ben Naman, PhD, at the intersection of traditional medicine, modern science, and conservation. Get an inside look at how San Diego Botanic Garden is working with academic, industry, nonprofit, and tribal partners to study, protect, and sustainably explore California’s native medicinal plants for modern applications.
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“Plants Are (Almost) Everything”
SDBG President & CEO Ari Novy, PhD
Thursday, January 15, 2026 – 6:30 – 7:30 PM

Botanic gardens are more than just beautiful places — they play important roles in human wellbeing, education, plant science, and conservation. SDBG President & CEO Ari Novy, an internationally recognized leader in the horticultural world, will explore how botanic gardens engage the public to nurture a healthier planet. Discover and how these important green spaces are also hubs for groundbreaking research on medicinal, native, and food and agricultural plants that can sustain us for generations to come.
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