Here's a few basics....(some from memory, some research):
Chloroform, a colorless liquid with a somewhat pungent odor, was first produced in 1831 by chemists through the action of chlorine (bleach, or calcium hypochlorite) upon acetone. Yes, that means you could cook up your own version in the basement with bleach and nail polish remover, but I really don't recommend it!
In 1847 chloroform came into surgical use as an anesthetic during childbirths. It replaced ether for a time, until the 20th century when it was abandoned due to its propensity to cause sudden cardiac arrythmia.
Its primary use today is in the production of freon refrigerant (R-22) found in air conditioning systems.
Intial exposure to chloroform can cause headaches, dizziness, and fatigue (as an anesthetic, chloroform depresses the central nervous system). Prolonged exposure can cause liver and kidney damage (in the liver, chloroform is metabolized into phosgene, a toxic gas; in this, I assume it would appear in the system much as digested rat poison does-metabolized phosporous).
The Hollywood version of chloroform usage, in which the villain dispenses a few drops into a rag and quickly subdues the victim, is greatly exaggerated. The amount necessary to "knock someone out" would, most likely, be deadly. However, the common misunderstandings and incorrect concepts about chloroform have seen it play prominent roles in several high-profile rape and murder cases (hey, I'm not doing all the work for you!)
For more information, I would recommend the book Chloroform-the quest for oblivion by Linda Strattman (I believe). The book should be available through Amazon.com.