Poisons in the Victorian Age

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During the Victorian age(1837-1901) and beyond people knew next to nothing about poisons. They didn't understand the effect they had on the body. Women used arsenic to achieve the pale look that was fashionable during that time. It did this by killing red blood cells. The arsenic came in small wafers that were such a small amount it wouldn't hurt anyone. Yet women did die from using these. It was also used in the manufacture of the color green in wallpaper and clothing. It was popular during this time and the arsenic enhanced the vibrancy of green pigments. It was also used in children's toys. Tartar emetic(also known as antimony tartrate) was used for colds. 12 grains was enough, an ounce was enough to kill 40 people. It purged the body and was used as a medicine because of this. It was made by leaving wine in an antimony cup overnight. Mozart was treated for some mysterious illness. It causes intense vomiting, fever, a swollen abdomen, and swollen limbs. It is unknown if it caused his death since he was dead in 2 weeks. Strychnine was used as a stimulant for athletic stamina, and sex benefits, and like caffeine to cram for tests. But, 5 milligrams is a lethal dose. Lead was added to paint during this time to keep it from flaking and make the colors more vibrant. Many mysterious illnesses were the result of long periods spent in a room with green wallpaper. Prolonged use of these drugs often ended in death. It wasn't until later that doctors realized the harm they did.