John Archer (physician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Archer
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|---|---|
| Born |
Probably Ireland
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| Died |
Probably London
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| Nationality | Irish-born English Protestant |
| Occupation | Medical Physician |
| Known for | Physician to the court of King Charles II |
John Archer was a physician who lived in England during the time of King Charles II. He was active between 1660 and 1684. Archer became known as a special physician to the king's court.
Contents
Who Was John Archer?
We don't know much for sure about where John Archer came from. It's thought he was an English Protestant born in Ireland. He mentioned working as a doctor in Dublin around 1660. Later, he moved to London.
In London, Archer was called the 'Chymical Physitian in Ordinary to the King'. This meant he was a royal doctor who used chemical remedies. He even claimed that King Charles II asked him to help some important people who were sick.
Archer's Unique Approach to Medicine
John Archer was not a member of the official medical group, the Royal College of Physicians. This group licensed doctors at the time. Instead, Archer was known for his own special methods. He sold secret medicines that he prepared himself.
He wrote a book called Every Man his own Doctor. This book was like an advertisement for his special cures. He promised amazing results for many different illnesses. Archer's medicines and books were only sold by him. You could find him at his office near Charing Cross or at his house in Knightsbridge.
Archer's Inventions
Besides his medical practice, John Archer also claimed to have invented a few interesting things. He created a new type of vapour-bath. He also designed a special oven. One of his most unusual inventions was a chariot. He said this chariot could do the work of two horses using only one.
It's quite interesting that a person with such unusual medical practices could become a physician to the king. John Archer's story shows how different medicine was in the 17th century.
Archer's Published Works
John Archer wrote several books about his medical ideas and remedies. These books helped him advertise his unique treatments.
- Every Man his own Doctor, completed with an Herbal, &c. This book was first published in 1671. A second edition came out in 1673.
- Secrets Disclosed, of Consumption, showing how to distinguish between Scurvy and ... Disease, &c. This book was published in 1684.