Mathieu J. B. Orfila was a Spanish-born scientist who dedicated his life to the study of toxins and poisons. His pioneering work in toxicology established many of the basic principles that are still used by scientists today. Orfila’s book, “Traité des poisons” (Treatise on Poisons), written in 1813, is considered to be the first textbook on toxicology.
- Born: 24 April 1787 · Mahón, Menorca,Kingdom of Spain
- Died: 12 March 1853 (aged 65) · Paris, Île-de-France, French Empire
- Citizenship: Spanish
- Known for: Founded toxicology
- Fields: Toxicology and chemistry
Born in Mahón, on the Spanish island of Minorca, on April 24, 1787, Orfila started his career as a seaman. However, he later decided to pursue his studies in medicine. Orfila studied at the University of Valencia and the University of Barcelona, and later at the University of Madrid and the University of Paris.
When the Peninsular War broke out in Spain, Orfila could not return to his homeland. He received help from the French chemist Louis Nicolas Vauquelin (1763–1829) to continue his studies in France. Orfila completed his work for a medical degree and was appointed professor of medical jurisprudence at the University of Paris in 1819.
Orfila conducted experiments on the effects of poisons, using dogs and other animals for his research. His research resulted in the first textbook on toxicology, Traité des poisons. Orfila’s work established the foundation for modern toxicology and led to the development of new treatments for poisonings.
Orfila was also an expert witness in criminal trials involving the use of poisons. He wrote books on medical chemistry, exhumed bodies, and the toxic effects of arsenic. He earned several honors during the 1830s and 1840s, but fell out of favor with the republican government in 1848, which biographers say may have shortened his life. He died in Paris on March 12, 1853, after a short illness.
Mathieu J. B. Orfila is considered to be the “father of toxicology” due to his pioneering work in the field. His contributions to the study of toxins and poisons have saved countless lives and helped to establish the field of toxicology as we know it today.
Forensic Analyst by Profession. With Simplyforensic.com striving to provide a one-stop-all-in-one platform with accessible, reliable, and media-rich content related to forensic science. Education background in B.Sc.Biotechnology and Master of Science in forensic science.
