David Macbride

Scottish physician and medical writer

Engraving of David Macbride by J. T. Smith, 1797

David Macbride (1726 – 1778) was a Scottish physician and medical writer known for his contributions to the field of medicine and his innovative ideas on the treatment of scurvy.

Early Life and Education

David Macbride was born in 1726 in Ballymoney, County Antrim, Ireland. He was the son of a Presbyterian minister. Macbride pursued his medical studies at the University of Edinburgh, where he was influenced by the teachings of William Cullen and other prominent medical figures of the time.

Medical Career

After completing his education, Macbride began practicing medicine in Dublin, where he gained a reputation for his innovative approaches to medical treatment. He was particularly interested in the treatment of scurvy, a common and debilitating disease among sailors during the 18th century.

Contributions to the Treatment of Scurvy

Macbride is best known for his work on scurvy, which he detailed in his publication "Experimental Essays" in 1764. He proposed that scurvy was caused by a deficiency of "fixed air" (carbon dioxide) in the blood and recommended the use of malt wort as a treatment. Although his theory was later proven incorrect, his work contributed to the understanding of the disease and the importance of dietary factors in its prevention.

Publications

Macbride was a prolific writer and his works include several essays and books on medical topics. His most notable publication, "Experimental Essays," covered a range of subjects including the fermentation process and the use of carbonated water in medicine.

Later Life and Legacy

David Macbride continued to practice medicine and write until his death in 1778. His contributions to medical science, particularly his work on scurvy, left a lasting impact on the field. Although his theories were eventually superseded by the discovery of vitamin C as the cure for scurvy, his emphasis on experimental methods and observation influenced future generations of medical researchers.

Related Pages

• Scurvy
• University of Edinburgh
• William Cullen