The Probert Encyclopaedia of Medicine

SCURVY

Scurvy (scorbutus) is a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C. It is characterised by anaemia, great weakness, spongy and swollen gums, and haemorrhages. In recent times scurvy was thought to be caused by a lack of fresh animal and vegetable food. Scurvy was very common in ships and in armies. Lime juice was the first effective preventative agent introduced into the navy in the early 19th century and made compulsory in the British mercantile marine in 1867.
Research Scurvy