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Origin of the term "snake oil" medicine is linked to Chinese immigration.

1849

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As Chinese immigrants arrive in the United States to work on the railroads, some bring a traditional medicine made of snake oil used to soothe sore muscles with them. The traditional medicine has high anti-inflammatory properties. The specific kind of snake used in this medicine is not found in the United States. Non-Chinese Americans begin to create medicines that they call "snake oil medicine" as a way to promote and sell it. Over time, the term will begin to be used for any dubious medicine.