Syphilis

From Wiki4CAM

Syphilis is a multi-system disease caused by the body's reaction to the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It is one of the first diseases to be successfully treated with alternative therapies.

History

Syphilis is a relatively modern disease. It likely originated in the New World and was transported to the Old World by early European explorers. Why syphilis became so destructive in Europe is unclear. It is believed that the urbanization, crowding, and unhealthy lifestyles of Europeans may have contributed to its rapid spread.

Treatment

Mercury, a natural toxic metal, was found to be an effective treatment for early syphilis. It was often applied topically or ingested.

Later, arsenic, another natural toxin, was also found to be effective. Often, arsenic, mercury, and bismuth were combined in small doses to avoid a toxic dose of any single agent.