physiotherapeutic management of plague of the seas or scurvy in the colonial period

Abstract

Introduction: In the Octavio Arizmendi Posada library of La Universidad de la Sabana there is a collection of medical reci-pes dating from the 18th century, used for the management of diseases from the New Granada period. This writing descri-bes the history, scientific bases and current management of scurvy. Objectives: Describe a medical prescription used for scurvy, expose its components and phytotherapeutic effects by scientific evidence, in addition to understanding from current medicine the importance of this prescription in the treatment of this pathology at that time. Discussion: Scurvy, a deficiency and hemorrhagic pathology caused by ascorbic acid deficiency with clinical manifestations ranging from gingivitis, anemia to death. Formerly known as ‘the plague of the seas’ because its victims were mainly sailors who made long voyages, its treatment was based on elderberry, which together with recommendations to consume fruits and vegetables improved symp-toms. Conclusions: Scurvy had a great impact in the 18th century, a period in which this disease was investigated, oriented towards symptomatic management. However, the mechanism of action by which it worked is not yet clear, and it is necessary to investigate the different components of this recipe to determine its application in modern medicine. © 2023, Sociedad Europea De Medicina Naturista Clasica. Seccion Espanola. All rights reserved.