Its first use internally is attributed to Robert A. Chesebrough, who patented it in 1872 for the manufacture of a "new and useful product from petroleum." After Sir W. Arbuthnot Lane, who was then Chief Surgeon of Guy's Hospital, recommended it as a treatment for intestinal stasis and chronic constipation in 1913, liquid paraffin gained more popularity.
Robert A. Chesebrough first applied it internally in 1872, patenting it for the production of a "practical petroleum-based remedy." Subsequently, Sir W. Arbuthnot Lane's recommendation as Chief Surgeon at Guy's Hospital in 1913 led to its increased use as a treatment for intestinal issues and chronic constipation.