For centuries, saltpeter may be combined with food given it?s a preservative. Before the invention of the refrigerator, kitchens routinely salted meat to hold it edible throughout the long winter time. Today, the traditional cans of corned beef still contain saltpeter ? it has been man?s friend when used in moderation. Saltpeter first emerged in China about 2,000 years ago. Early experiments saw Chinese chemists having the best along with the worst results, according to your point of view. The compost heaps containing decomposing organic matter were covered and spiked with dung and urine. When the resulting "mess" was filtered and wood ash added, this became wonderful fertilizer and also the foundation of fireworks for celebrations. Later, naturally, it made explosives for war. Arthritis is inflammation of the joints. It can affect one or more joints. There are over 100 different types of arthritis, different causes and treatments. The two most common types are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). So, if you want your husband or you to be always grinning from ear to ear try to get some great dose of coitus every night. Reactive arthritis - this can cause inflammation of the joints, eyes and urethra (tube through which urine passes). Not long after infection of the gut and genital tract, or less frequently after throat infection.