Vaporizer, France, 1850-1940
Metal vapourizer, made by Unis, in case with accessories, French
Fumes produced by the vaporizer and inhaled by the patient were claimed to treat diseases and conditions associated with the lungs and airways. These include asthma, bronchitis, whooping cough and croup. The vaporizer was for night use while the patient slept and it had to be placed on a plate to prevent it falling over and potentially starting a fire. Vaporizers were used throughout the 1700s and were a popular, relatively affordable home treatment. This example was made in France by medical manufacturing company Unis.