Tag: Maritime medicine

An estimated two million sailors died from scurvy between the 16th and 18th centuries, yet stories tell of pirates' surprising longevity at sea. But what did pirates drink to avoid scurvy, the dreaded disease known for its horrific symptoms, including bleeding gums, lethargy, and open sores? The answer is more complex than a simple barrel of rum.

Over two million sailors are estimated to have died from scurvy between the 16th and 18th centuries, a devastating illness caused by dietary deficiency. The specific food choices, often limited to non-perishable items, are the primary reason why sailors developed scurvy during long sea voyages.