Quack or Fact? Wednesday, September 2, 2020 7pm

Was there scientific basis behind “quacky” colonial cures?
The history of medicine is filled with stories of strange tonics, outlandish remedies, and curious “cures.” Toads, snails, mashed potatoes, mandrake, and bear grease were commonly prescribed. While some of these ingredients sound crazy, there’s logic behind many of them! For instance, snake oil hasn’t always been just a euphemism for quack medical treatments. For centuries, oil from the Chinese water snake was an actual treatment used in traditional Chinese medicine to relieve joint pain. Today, we know that snakes are a rich source of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 fatty acid containing anti-inflammatory properties.

On Wednesday, September 2, 2020 at 7pm the Historical Society of Cheshire County will host an online presentation by the Grounded Goodwives, Ehris Urban and Velya Jancz-Urban. Register for free to catch this funny and factual exploration of colonial “quackery” on Zoom. Click link below to register and receive Zoom link.
History should never be boring!