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Magnetism

Magnetism has been a curiosity for centuries and was first noticed by early healers when amber stones developed magnetic properties when rubbed together. (23). "Electric" (or actually magnetic) belts (24-26), brushes (27-30), and combs (31) were popular throughout the 19th century and continue today accompanied by a multitude of testimonials -- controlled scientific studies remain pending.

Vibration

Vibration has been a popular form of therapy for centuries. Theoretically, vibration at the right frequency could either vibrate out a disease process or provide increased circulation and healing to a weak part of the body. Small home devices were popular, both hand operated (32-37), and electric (38-47). Larger pieces of vibrating equipment, including beds and chairs, could be found in hospitals and sanitariums (48-53).

Electricity

In the latter part of the 18th century, Ben Franklin's kite experiment established the relationship between lightening and electricity. The first to use electricity medically was Christian A. Kratzenstein (1723-1795) when he replaced "bad" electricity with "good" electricity in such diseases as rheumatism and the plague. The popular Davis & Kidder magneto machine was patented in 1854 and combined electricity and magnetism. It generated an electric current from spinning magnates that resulted in a small shock delivered to surprised and delighted patients suffering from nervous disorders (54,55).

23) Naturaepathic Medicine

Dr. Darrin makes no pretensions in this promotion for the use of magnates (ca 1900).

24-26) Electric Belts

A weak charge could be produced when the metal links were submerged in a solution made of sulfuric acid, vinegar, and water. Pulvermacher was one on the major distributors of these belts and they produced numerous booklets similar to the one shown, all filled with testimonials by satisfied customers. The two belts shown were made by Mioxrl, the left one, with a genital loop, for the male and the right for the female.

27-30) "Electric Brushes"

The brushes made by Dr. Scott contained magnates and were used to treat many medical complaints in addition to hair loss. A compass was included in order to demonstrate proof of activity. The Raydo brush worked on batteries while the Wonder Brush generated a shock after the lever on the top was repeatedly pushed.

31) Electric Comb

White's Electric Comb was charged by a small battery that gave the user a shock and combed his hair, though it did little else.

32-37) Hand Operated Home Vibrators

The VeeDee and Dr. Macura devices were for home use and provided the user with localized vibration for any specific complaint. The buzzing sensation is similar to the low voltage electric currents produced by other home devices.

38-47) Vibrators Powered by Electric Current

A number of companies produced home therapeutic devices powered by electricity once that convenience became more available in the early 20th century. Note the multiple attachments on the White Cross vibrator, each useful in treating a different ailment. As you can see from the photographs, they were found in professional settings and used on those of all ages. The belt vibrators were sold into the middle of the 20th century for weight control but were employed earlier for the treatment of numerous medical conditions.

48-53) Vibration Therapy

at the Kellogg Sanitarium One could expect to be treated with either of these two devices at the Kellogg Sanitarium in Battle Creek, Michigan. Theoretically, vibration would supply healing oxygen to diseased tissues. The vibrating chair is extremely rare and in wonderful condition.

54-55) Electromagnetic Therapy

The Davis & Kidder Magneto-Electric machine is one of the most popular quack devices that one will come across at an antique show or auction. Two rotating magnates that are in proximity cause the production of a current that can be transferred to the "patient" through wires and metal handles. These machines were advertised to cure various nervous disorders and provided the user with a buzzing sensation that seemed to be effective. The boxed type is fairly common while one with a dolphin-designed wheel is quite rare.

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23) Magnetic Healing

25) Mioxrls Electric belts

27) Electric Brush, Battery

31) Electric Comb

32) VeeDee Massager

38) White Cross Vibrator

49) Kellogg Vibrating Chair

55) Electromagnetic Rx