Strychnine Bottle:
Deadly Cure or Medicinal Marvel?
Strychnine
68.341.361
19th Century
Material: Glass, cork, strychnine grains
Description
Strychnine, infamous as a potent toxin, held a dual role in the 19th century as both a deadly poison and a medicinal aid.
While commonly used to eliminate household vermin, strychnine was also prescribed in controlled doses by doctors as a muscle and nerve stimulant. Small amounts were believed to strengthen weak hearts, alleviate nerve damage when applied topically, and even restore vision through its muscle-contracting properties.
In its liquid form, it was used as eye drops or injected into the eye to treat vision loss by inducing muscle accommodation.
Today, strychnine is solely used as a pesticide, its medical applications abandoned due to the dangers associated with its toxicity.
Fun Fact!
In the 19th century, strychnine was also employed as a performance-enhancing drug. Its muscle-stimulating properties were utilized in various sports and activities, despite the significant risks posed by higher doses or prolonged use.