Title
Betalin Compound (Pulvules No. 250)
Author
N/A
Image
Description
This small metal tin once held six professional sample capsules (Pulvules) of Betalin Compound No. 250, manufactured by Eli Lilly and Company in Indianapolis, Indiana. Marketed as a complex of Vitamins B1 and B2, it also included liver-stomach concentrate to supply additional B-complex factors. Meant for physicians to distribute to patients, it reflects mid-century efforts to treat vitamin deficiencies through targeted supplementation.
Condition
Mild surface wear consistent with age. Label text is legible on front and back. Interior is empty. Sliding lid intact but slightly worn at edges.
Gallery
Historical context
In the early to mid-20th century, vitamin supplementation was considered cutting-edge therapy for conditions like beriberi, pellagra, anemia, and fatigue. Eli Lilly was one of the major pharmaceutical firms promoting synthetic vitamins alongside natural organ extracts such as liver and stomach concentrate. The term “Pulvules” was Lilly’s proprietary name for gelatin capsules.
Curious Facts, Ephemera, and Trivia
The tin uses “Sherman Units” to quantify riboflavin, a short-lived unit of vitamin activity named after H.C. Sherman.
Liver-stomach concentrate was believed to be a rich source of B-vitamins and iron.
The professional sample note—common in the era—signals that this was never meant for sale.
Excerpt
“Each Pulvule contains: Vitamin B1 1.0 mg (333 IU), Vitamin B2 (G) 40 Sherman Units, and other B2 Complex factors derived from liver-stomach concentrate.”
Why it is in the Cabinet
This piece bridges the era between organ-based extract medicine and synthetic vitamin therapy. It’s a striking artifact from a time when nutritional science was being commercialized by major pharmaceutical companies. Also, the design and typography of the tin are excellent examples of period branding.
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