Quinine
A bitter medicine from the bark of the cinchona tree, used to treat malaria.
What is it?
Quinine is a substance that comes from the bark of the cinchona tree, which grows in South America. It is very bitter. People use it to treat malaria, a disease spread by mosquitoes. Tonic water contains a small amount of quinine, which gives it a bitter taste. The Gin and Tonic was invented to make quinine easier to drink.
Why it matters
Quinine was a lifesaver for people living in tropical areas where malaria was common. It helped British soldiers and colonists stay healthy in India. Today, quinine is still used in some medicines.
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