The story of a Mineral Chameleon: From Johann Rudolf Glauber (1604-1670) to Henry Bollmann Condy (1826-1907).

Following the emergence of germ theory and the importance of infection and its prevention, as advocated by various towering authorities such as Louis Pasteur, Robert Koch, and Lord Lister, the focus shifted from the old miasma theory to the role of microorganisms. Consequently, the emphasis was put on disinfectants and antisepsis. Among various chemical disinfecting agents, Condy's solution (potassium permanganate) has remained an important one in the field of dermatology, in particular and medicine in general. The history of Condy's fluid is full of fascinating facts, and the story covers a wide area from the clinic to the court of law. This article is a bird's-eye view of the subject.