Pluto Water

A historical laxative mineral water

Pluto Water was a popular laxative mineral water product in the United States during the early 20th century. It was bottled in French Lick, Indiana, and was known for its high mineral content, particularly sodium sulfate and magnesium sulfate, which are known for their laxative effects.

History

Pluto Water was first bottled in the late 19th century, around 1888, in the town of French Lick, Indiana. The area was known for its mineral springs, which were believed to have therapeutic properties. The water was marketed as a natural remedy for constipation and other digestive issues.

The product gained popularity in the early 20th century, with its distinctive slogan "When Nature Won't, Pluto Will." The water was sold in distinctive green bottles with a red label featuring the image of Pluto, the Roman god of the underworld, which symbolized the water's powerful effects.

Composition

Pluto Water contained high levels of sodium sulfate (also known as Glauber's salt) and magnesium sulfate (commonly known as Epsom salt). These compounds are known for their ability to draw water into the intestines, thereby promoting bowel movements. The mineral content of Pluto Water was derived from the natural springs in French Lick, which were rich in these and other minerals.

Usage

Pluto Water was primarily used as a laxative. It was recommended for individuals suffering from constipation and was also used as a general tonic for digestive health. The water was consumed by the glassful, and its effects were typically felt within a few hours of ingestion.

Regulation and Decline

In the 1930s, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began to regulate products like Pluto Water more strictly. Concerns about the safety and efficacy of such products led to increased scrutiny. In 1938, the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act was passed, which required more rigorous testing and labeling of medicinal products.

Pluto Water's high mineral content, particularly its levels of bromide, eventually led to its decline. Bromide was found to have potential toxic effects, and by the mid-20th century, Pluto Water was no longer sold as a medicinal product.

Cultural Impact

Pluto Water was a well-known product in its time and was often referenced in popular culture. Its distinctive branding and powerful effects made it a memorable part of early 20th-century American life. The town of French Lick, Indiana, remains known for its historical association with Pluto Water and its mineral springs.

Related pages

• Laxative
• Mineral water
• French Lick, Indiana
• Sodium sulfate
• Magnesium sulfate