Poisons. A Magnificent History of Humanity

An intriguing mix of science, the history of medicine, and true crimes. Dr. Neil Bradbury explores poisons and their effects on people at the cellular level. You will find real stories about poisons: how they pass through the human body and what happens to that body.

The history of poisons is inseparable from the history of humanity. Treacherous, deadly, and pathologically alluring poisons have accompanied us since time immemorial, becoming instruments of revenge, companions of romantic entanglements, and mysterious deaths. Poisons toppled monarchies and shaped destinies, reflected in art and were associated with secret knowledge for centuries. Natural and man-made, slow-acting and those that bring swift death, noticeable and those that are difficult to detect. Each toxic substance in this book is examined by the author through the lens of history and committed crimes.