A number of early studies were directed towards harnessing its antibiotic activity. For example, it was tested as both a nose and throat spray for treating the common cold and as an ointment for treating fungal skin infections However, during the 1950s and 1960s, it became apparent that, in addition to its antibacterial, antiviral, and antiprotozoal activity, patulin was toxic to both plants and animals, precluding its clinical use as an antibiotic.
A number of early investigations focused on harnessing its antimicrobial properties. To illustrate, it was tested as both a nasal and throat spray for treating the common cold and as an ointment for treating fungal skin infections However, during the 1950s and 1960s, it became clear that, in addition to its antibacterial, antiviral, and antiprotozoal activity, patulin was toxic to both plants and animals, which ultimately led to its exclusion from clinical use as an antibiotic.