Jonathan Green (medical writer) facts for kids

Jonathan Green (born around 1788, died 1864) was a British doctor and writer. He was known for his work as a surgeon in the navy and later for specializing in skin diseases. He also became famous for using special "fumigating baths" to help people with various health problems.

About Jonathan Green's Life

Jonathan Green was born in England around the year 1788. He studied medicine and became a member of the Royal College of Surgeons of England in 1810. Later, he earned his M.D. (Medical Doctor) degree from Heidelberg University in Germany in 1834. In 1835, he was chosen to be a fellow of the Royal Medical and Chirurgical Society, a group for important medical professionals.

For several years, Green worked as a surgeon in the British Navy. During this time, he became very good at treating skin problems. After leaving the navy, he traveled to Paris, France. There, he studied special "fumigating baths" that the French government had set up. These baths used steam or smoke to treat illnesses.

When he returned to London in 1823, Green opened his own place for these baths. It was located at 5 Bury Street, St. James's. He also invented a portable (easy to move) steam bath. In 1825, he moved his business to 40 Great Marlborough Street. However, his business did not become a lasting success.

Later in his life, Green lived at the Charterhouse, a historic almshouse. He passed away there on February 23, 1864, at the age of 76.

Jonathan Green's Writings

Jonathan Green wrote several books about his medical work and ideas. These books shared his knowledge about skin diseases and the special baths he used.

Here are some of his important works:

• The Utility and Importance of Fumigating Baths illustrated: This book, published in 1823, explained how useful fumigating baths were. It showed how they started and became popular in France.
• A short Illustration of the Advantages derived by the use of Sulphurous Fumigating, Hot Air, and Vapour Baths: In 1825, he wrote about the benefits of different types of baths, including those using sulfur fumes, hot air, and steam.
• Some Observations on the utility of Fumigating and other Baths: This book from 1831 (with another edition in 1835) shared more thoughts on how helpful these baths could be. It also included examples of cases where they worked.
• A Practical Compendium of the Diseases of the Skin, with Cases: Published in 1835, this was a practical guide to skin diseases. It included real-life examples to help other doctors.
• On the Utility and Safety of the Fumigating Bath as a remedial agent in Complaints of the Skin. Joints, Rheumatism: In 1847, he wrote about how safe and useful fumigating baths were for skin problems, joint pain, and rheumatism.
• An improved Method of employing Mercury by Fumigation to the whole body: His 1852 book described a new way to use mercury through fumigation for treating the whole body.