The prophylactic effects of silver and copper have been known for thousands of years and historians and archaeologists continue to uncover fresh examples from the ancient civilisations. This book surveys the historical, scientific and practical aspects of the subject, bringing together German studies little-known outside that country and work from the English-speaking communities. Viricidal and fungicidal aspects are also discussed. The CD-ROM database to accompany the book includes 600 abstracts, may of these relating to Patents based on application of the principle.