Beecham's Pills were a laxative were invented by Thomas Beecham (December 3, 1820 - April 6, 1907). The pills were a combination of aloe, ginger, and soap. They were initially advertised like other patent medicine as a cure-all, but they actually did have a positive effect on the digestive process. The pills, and their marketing, were the basis for Beecham's Patent Pills, which became Beecham Estates and Pills in 1924. The pills continued to be made by a succession of companies, but were discontinued in 1998. 19th century advertisement (cropped and cleaned).