Blackberry Cordial

February 7th, 2019

Mash and strain the blackberries; put the juice on to boil in a brass or bell-metal kettle; skim it well, and to each gallon of juice put three pounds of sugar and a quart of spirits; bruise some cloves and put in. This is valuable as a medicine for children in summer.

Source: Domestic Cookery, Useful Receipts, and Hints to Young Housekeepers, Elizabeth E. Lea

A Useful Lotion for the Hands

February 5th, 2019

…which may be kept in the bathroom or upon the washstand, is made with equal parts of glycerine and rubra lotion (tincture of lavender and zinc). Mix the two together in a bottle and rub a few drops into the hands after washing, but before drying them upon the towel.

Another similar lotion is made by mixing equal quantities of glycerine, rosewater and hazeline.

Rub in a few drops after washing when the hands are partly dried.

Source: Household Management, E. Stoddard Eckford & M.S. Fitzgerald

For Insect Stings

February 3rd, 2019

Extract the sting, if left in, with a watch key or tweezers, and apply ammonia and water, or a paste of bicarbonate of soda with sal volatile.

Common soda or the blue bag will also relieve the pain.

Source: Household Management, E. Stoddard Eckford & M.S. Fitzgerald

To Prevent Gray Hair

February 1st, 2019

When the hair begins to change color, the use of the following pomade has a beneficial effect in preventing the disease extending, and has the character of even restoring the color of the hair in many instances: Lard, 4 ounces: spermaceti, 4 drachms: oxide of bismuth, 4 drachms. Melt the lard and spermaceti together, and when getting cold stir in the bismuth; to this can be added any kind of perfume, according to choice. It should be used whenever the hair requires dressing. It must not be imagined that any good effect speedily results; it is, in general, a long time taking place, the change being very gradual.

Source: Our Knowledge Box, ed. G. Blackie

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    NOTE: these remedies are listed only for information and/or amusement. They are not to be construed as medical advice of any type, nor are they recommended for use. Consult your doctor or other medical professional for any medical advice you require.