Before Alcoholics Anonymous, Dr. Keeley's snake oil 'Gold Cure' swept the Upper Midwest. Why?
Over time, Dr. Leslie Keeley’s injection became known as the “Gold Cure,” named for its supposed content. Later analysis cast doubt on the idea that gold was used at all, but a foundational principal of Keeley's treatment centers continues today, in programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous.
Source: brainerddispatch.com