The Irish Times Archives: Remedies

LaurieLovesLearning

Well, I was looking up information on fig poultice (I will do another post), and while doing so, I found some really interesting articles addressing past historical practices on a few subjects. Many of these things fall into "do not try these at home."

These certainly fall into our entertainment category. Some are silly, & some are downright foolish or dangerous.

https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/health-family/sleeping-secrets-undress-in-the-dark-walk-around-the-room-and-lie-east-to-west-1.3592136?mode=amp

https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/health-family/cocaine-tooth-powder-useful-for-toothache-and-spongy-gums-1.3690912?mode=amp

https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/health-family/weight-loss-remedies-obesity-soap-laxative-water-and-fat-massage-1.3668062?mode=amp

Torey

My, oh, my. It is interesting to read what our recent ancestors used for a variety of ailments. About the only thing I think I agree on is using hops in a pillow to induce sleep.

I knew they used cocaine in a lot of products but didn't know about it in tooth powder. And cocaine for sleeplessness?!?! That's a new one! Can't imagine that working very well!

ltwickey

Fun reads! Thank you for posting!

judsoncarroll4

https://community.thegrownetwork.com/discussion/comment/887330#Comment_887330

Cocaine is the most affective topical analgesic and was used in most dental surgeries and toothaches in times past. Lidocaine has supplanted its use.