Zam-Buk is a patent medicine which was produced by the Zam-Buk Company of Leeds, England, founded by Charles Edward Fulford. It was first sold by his Bile Beans company in 1902,[1] as a herbal balm and antiseptic ointment; the use of a complementary Zam-Buk soap was recommended to augment the treatment. The ointment was advertised as being effective against a wide range of conditions, including cuts, bruises, sprains, ulcers, bleeding piles and even colds and toothache. It could also be used as an embrocation by rubbing it into the muscles of the back, legs or feet.[2]
The source of the name is uncertain, but a link to South Africa has been suggested. It remains very widely popular in South Africa.[3] The brand name was at one time used to refer to ambulance-men and first aiders at rugby league matches in Australia and New Zealand.[4]
The product is still manufactured today, often by Bayer, who now owns the trade mark[5] in some, but not all, countries. It is available in Southern Africa, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand.
- ^ Cite error: The named reference
DundeePostwas invoked but never defined (see the help page). - ^ Cite error: The named reference
BMJ1908was invoked but never defined (see the help page). - ^ [A South African is going viral for hilariously showing how difficult Zam-Buck is to open https://www.goodthingsguy.com/fun/opening-zam-buk/]
- ^ Cite error: The named reference
Faganwas invoked but never defined (see the help page). - ^ "ZAM-BUK Trademark of BAYER CONSUMER CARE AG - Registration Number 0069876 - Serial Number 71033504 :: Justia Trademarks".