Historical medical treatments involving platinum from "summary" of A History of Platinum and its Allied Metals by Donald McDonald,Leslie B. Hunt
This topic explores the use of platinum in medical treatments throughout history. Its application has been studied in many areas, including surgery, dentistry, and pharmaceuticals. It has long been thought of as a valuable tool in medical treatments, offering many benefits to patients.- Ancient civilizations from around the world used platinum for a variety of medical treatments. Platinum was incorporated into various healing applications including medicinal ointments, elixirs and suture wires.
- In some cultures, healers administered tiny pieces of platina to treat nervous disorders or metal disharmony that they believed caused sickness.
- The traditional Chinese medicine system also made extensive use of platina in a range of remedies. These included topical oils designed to reduce inflammation, and extracts taken orally to promote kidney function.
- When the Spanish conquered South America, they brought platina back to Europe and it soon became a regular ingredient in early medicines. Its popularity saw it included in tonics, poultices, syrups, and even alcohol-based tinctures.
- We are now discovering new applications for platina in the medical field thanks to advances in science, technology, and nanotechnology. It serves as a catalyst for drug delivery systems and can even be utilized to diagnose disease.
