Six scientists who experimented on themselves

Science hasn’t always adhered to strict safety protocols. Throughout history, some of the most curious minds have conducted bizarre experiments—often on themselves—risking their health and even their lives in the relentless pursuit of knowledge. (unsplash)

Alexander Bogdanov Experimented With Blood Transfusions: Believing blood transfusions could restore youth, Bogdanov performed the procedure on himself multiple times. While he claimed temporary benefits, one transfusion ultimately led to his death. (wikimedia commons)

Barry Marshall Drank Bacteria: To prove that ulcers were caused by bacteria, Marshall drank a culture of Helicobacter pylori. He developed gastritis, successfully demonstrating his theory, and eventually earning a Nobel Prize. (wikimedia commons)

Horace Wells Tested Anaesthesia on Himself: Wells experimented with nitrous oxide and had his own tooth extracted while under its influence, proving that anaesthesia could make dental procedures painless. (wikimedia commons)

Isaac Newton and the Needle in the Eye: Newton once inserted a needle (a bodkin) behind his eye to study how pressure affected vision. He also stared directly at the sun to understand light and colour, temporarily damaging his eyesight in the process. (wikimedia commons)

Stubbins Ffirth Exposed Himself to Disease: Trying to prove yellow fever wasn’t contagious, Ffirth exposed himself to infected fluids, even ingesting them. He didn’t fall ill, but only because the disease is transmitted by mosquitoes, not direct contact. (wikimedia commons)

Werner Forssmann Inserted a Tube Into His Heart: Ignoring warnings, Forssmann inserted a catheter into his own arm and guided it to his heart, pioneering a technique that would later become essential in modern medicine. (wikimedia commons)