Stuff You Missed in History Class SYMHC Classics: Scurvy
Dec 7, 2024
Scurvy, a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency, has a fascinating history tied to sailors during the Age of Exploration. Symptoms like fatigue and bleeding gums took a toll on long voyages until citrus fruits emerged as a cure. The story dives into early outbreaks, the evolution of our understanding of nutrition, and the pivotal role that vitamin C plays in health. From the British Navy’s nutritional changes to landmark figures in naval medicine, the historical journey of scurvy is both intriguing and enlightening.
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Scurvy's Impact on Early Voyages
- Scurvy killed two million European sailors between the 15th and 19th centuries.
- Vasco da Gama's 1497 voyage to India saw 100 out of 170 crew members die from scurvy.
Cartier's Crew and Indigenous Remedy
- In 1535, Jacques Cartier's crew suffered from scurvy during a harsh winter near present-day Quebec City.
- Domogaya, a local, provided a scurvy treatment using a tea made from tree leaves, likely eastern white cedar.
Anson's Ill-Fated Voyage
- George Anson's 1740 voyage was plagued by scurvy, exacerbated by a crew of sick and elderly men.
- Despite reaching Juan Fernandez Islands and finding relief with fresh produce, scurvy struck again later, leaving few survivors.