What is saltpeter used for in the army?
This week, The Rumor Doctor goes old school by discussing a military myth that dates back generations and suggests that recruits are secretly being fed saltpeter to suppress their sexual desires. The term saltpeter refers to potassium nitrate, a salt used in explosives and also considered an anti-aphrodisiac.
What happens if you eat saltpeter?
Although it is known to reduce libido, this is a myth. Potassium nitrate can be dangerous when consumed. This can cause kidney damage or anemia, as well as headaches and indigestion.
What was saltpeter used for during the war?
Saltpeter (the term refers to potassium or sodium nitrate) does not affect meat cravings. The story that this chemical was put into soldiers’ food to reduce their libido is a complete myth. … The story that this chemical was put into soldiers’ food to reduce their libido is a complete myth.
What can be done with saltpeter?
use of saltpeter
Saltpeter is a common preservative and food additive, fertilizer, and oxidizer for firecrackers and rockets. It is one of the main ingredients of gunpowder. Potassium nitrate is used to treat asthma and in topical formulations for tooth sensitivity.
What was put in the soldier’s tea?
During World War I, front-line servicemen who were away from loved ones for long periods added bromine to their tea to reduce the distraction of their sexual desire.
What did the army put in the tea?
During World War I, front-line servicemen who were away from loved ones for long periods added bromine to their tea to reduce the distraction of their sexual desire. Eighteen
What does bromide do to a person?
An anaphrodisiac (also anaphrodisiac or antiaphrodisiac) is a substance that calms or weakens libido. It is the opposite of an aphrodisiac, something that increases sexual appetite.
What is bromide used for?
Bromide is a medication used to treat severe epilepsy, including myoclonic seizures. Bromide is available in two formulations: ternary bromide (contains three different bromide variants: ammonium bromide, potassium bromide and sodium bromide) and potassium bromide. twenty
What was bromine used for during the war?
Some bromine salts, particularly potassium bromide, were found to be natural tranquilizers and were prescribed in the 19th century to treat epilepsy. … This side effect is also at the heart of the urban myth that bromide was added to the tea of World War I prisoners of war and soldiers to reduce sexual desire. 27
