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9 Odd Cures of 1899
Have you ever thought of taking laxatives to cure the chickenpox? Or how about drinking Champagne to ward off morning sickness? Back in 1899, those were just some of the bizarre remedies prescribed by the medical community.
- Nowadays, doctors may recommend rest, a pain reliever like Tylenol to bring down the fever and an antihistamine to stop the itching associated with the chicken pox, but, in 1899, the most recommended treatment was laxatives, according to the Merck Manual. At least constipation wasn't an issue.read moreAPShare
- Characterized by a shortness of breath or in severe cases an inability to breathe all-together, asthma is hardly a disease that benefits from respiratory constricting activities such as smoking. But, in 1899, the most recommended treatment for the condition was tobacco, as "smoking is sometimes beneficial," the 19th Century Merck Manual says. Cannabis Indica, also known as marijuana, was recommended for severe cases.read moreAPShare
- Apparently doctors in 1899 thought vomiting during pregnancy was a reason to celebrate as the recommended treatment for this condition was Champagne. If Champagne didn't quite hit the spot, vomiting moms-to-be could also try cocaine. Now, for those who are simply nauseous, whether pregnant or not, treatment consisted of electricity, leeches or cocaine.read moreAPShare
- If you were suffering from an alcohol addiction back in the 19th Century, it was recommended you try some other vices. Specifically, doctors recommended cocaine to remove the craving for alcohol, and opium to "produce sleep" and "relieve the chronic pain of gastritis and the want of appetite."read moreAPShare
- Published9 Images
9 Odd Cures of 1899
Have you ever thought of taking laxatives to cure the chickenpox? Or how about drinking Champagne to ward off morning sickness? Back in 1899, those were just some of the bizarre remedies prescribed by the medical community.
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- 9 Odd Cures of 1899
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