America’s deadly 1920s obsession with radioactive water
If someone promised you a cure for acne, anemia, heart disease, leukemia, flatulence, poison ivy, arthritis, alcoholism, impotence, asthma AND wrinkles, would you try it? What if we told you it carries a risk or is slight to moderate… death?
In the 1920s, Radithor was touted as a panacea for common illnesses. Just take a few sips and say goodbye to your farts and pimples. William Bailey, who preferred the nickname “Doctor Bailey” despite having no medical degree, sold more than 400,000 bottles of radioactive water in the early 20th century.
Radithor’s story is a fascinating tale of medical quackery, government lobbying, and, of course, radium. Our latest video explores the history of this deadly “miracle” water.
The radioactive “miracle water” that killed its believers
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