The History Of Magnetism
The
use of magnets to improve health isn't new. For more than 2,000 years,
the effects of magnets on biological systems have been investigated and
debated. The term “magnet" was probably derived from Magnes, a Turkish
shepherd who discovered iron deposits that were attracted to the nails
in his sandals. These deposits, now called magnetite (a form of iron),
were known to the ancients as lodestones ("leading stones").
During
medieval times, lodestones were thought to have strong aphrodisiac
powers, and magnetic "cures" for afflictions such as gout, arthritis
and baldness flourished. By the middle of the 18th century, durable
high-power magnets were available throughout Europe. One young
researcher, Franz Anton Mesmer, used magnets to treat patients with
various illnesses, which led to a medical review in Paris that
denounced his work as medical quackery. By the late 1800s, magnets
became popular in America, with the Sears Roebuck mail-order catalog
advertising magnetic boot insoles for 18 cents a pair.
Fast
forward to 1997. While most consumers today won't stand for the
dog-and-pony-show mentality that prevailed in earlier times, they'll
still do almost anything to find relief from pain. Magnets are being
used to ease discomfort associated with arthritis, fibromyalgia,
post-polio syndrome and migraine headaches.