There are several seniors whose company I enjoy. They teach me some things. They remind me of other things and earlier times. Last week, I was in a conversation with some senior ladies and the topic turned to southern home remedies. Some mainstay items in the medicine cabinets of these early households were familiar to all of us.
Castor oil was for colds. It was taken by mouth, and it was hard to swallow. Every time you belched, you could taste it. You could taste it even if it had been mixed into orange juice before you drank it.
Rubbing Alcohol was for skin irritations, like bug bites. It was also for disinfecting wounds. It burned.
Petroleum Jelly was used as a moisturizer and ash eraser. It was also good for scalp dryness and to prevent chapped lips.
Vicks Rub was rubbed on the chest for colds and under the noses for stopped-up noses. Some people ate it for sore throats, but you were not supposed to do that.
Cod Liver Oil was used as a tonic to keep children strong. A tablespoon was given every morning. It smelled fishy and was hard to swallow.
Mercuricrome was used for minor cuts and scrapes. It did not burn and it made an iridescent glow on the skin. I don't think you can buy it these days because I think it has mercury in it.
You may not know about these remedies, but maybe your parents, older relatives, or older adults friends know about them. Maybe they can tell you about other home remedies. Why not ask?
It could make for a lively and informative conversation!
Take care,
Sylvia
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