Trichloromethane, also known as chloroform, is an organic compound with the chemical formula CHCl3. It is a colorless, sweet-smelling liquid that has been used as an ANAESTHETIC since the 19th century. It was first synthesized in 1831 by the French chemist Eugene Soubeiran and was used as an ANAESTHETIC until the early 20th century when it was replaced by safer alternatives. Trichloromethane is still used in some medical applications today, such as for treating certain types of cancer.