Ferrous tartrate has been used as a steel medicine.[2][3] It was generally prescribed during the 19th and early 20th centuries. It is usually prepared by digesting for 30 days, 2 ounces (880 grains) tartarated iron[4] in a pint of sherry.[5] It can be difficult to prepare.[6]
Historically, it was used as a stomachic and tonic, at a dose of 2 tbsp.[5] It was also used to treat anemia, dose 1 to 2 fl. dr.[7]