Box of Fennings' sulphur powders, England, 1940-1970
Fennings’ Sulphur powders were taken dry or with water as a treatment for constipation and piles and for threadworm – a worm that lives in the intestines and can cause unexplained weight loss and, more seriously, bacterial infections. Alfred Fennings (d. 1900) opened his first shop – the Golden Key pharmacy – in London in 1840. Highly adept at advertising and marketing, he went on to create a very successful business producing a range of products which became popular ‘over the counter’ medicines bought by generations of shoppers. Although several Fennings’ products are still sold today, some of his earlier claims – including ‘cures’ for cholera and whooping cough – were highly dubious. On his death, trustees took over the running of the business and the profits went to a children’s charity. (Pictured here with other Fennings’ products).
Object number:
1986-1249/65
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: threadworm
No description.
Glossary: Fennings' product
Alfred Fennings opened a pharmacy in London in 1840 which sold treatments for serious illnesses. A ‘Fennings product’ is from this company, which distributed its wares across Britain.
Glossary: piles
Swellings that develop from three pads or cushions of tissue that line the anal canal.