Evidence supporting the use of: Mercury
For the health condition: Tuberculosis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Historically, mercury was used in the treatment of tuberculosis (TB), particularly before the advent of effective antibiotics in the 20th century. Use of mercury compounds, such as mercuric chloride and calomel, in TB treatment can be traced back to the 18th and 19th centuries. This practice was grounded in the general tradition of using mercury-containing preparations for a variety of ailments, most notably syphilis. Physicians hoped mercury would have broad antimicrobial effects, but these hopes were based on anecdotal observations rather than scientific understanding. Reports from the era indicate that mercury was administered in various forms, often resulting in significant toxicity such as salivation, gum disease, and neurological effects, but little therapeutic benefit. Once the bacterial cause of TB (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) was identified and antibiotics such as streptomycin became available in the mid-20th century, mercury ceased to be used due to lack of efficacy and high toxicity. Modern scientific studies do not support the use of mercury in TB management, and its use is considered obsolete and unsafe. The historical use of mercury for TB is now viewed as a reflection of the limited medical knowledge of the time rather than a practice with any enduring scientific merit.

More about Mercury
More about Tuberculosis

Other health conditions supported by Mercury

Syphilis
Tuberculosis

Products containing Mercury

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.