Methylene blue was first synthesized in 1876 by German chemist Heinrich Caro. He initially developed it as a dye for textiles.
Shortly after its discovery, scientists recognized its potential medical applications due to its ability to stain biological tissues.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, researchers began experimenting with methylene blue as a treatment for various medical conditions, including malaria.
In the late 19th century, scientists discovered that methylene blue could effectively kill the malaria parasite in the blood.
During World War I, methylene blue gained further attention for its potential to treat methemoglobinemia, a condition that can be caused by certain medications or chemicals and leads to a decrease in the blood’s ability to carry oxygen.
