Patent Medicines 4

PATENT MEDICINE : Cures & Quacks continued

Hope,
Alcohol
& Opium

During the 19th century, any claim could be made for any remedy. Any ingredient, even if lethal or addictive, could be put into a bottle and legally sold, without that ingredient being listed on the label. The significant level of alcohol (usually in the 20% range) found in most sarsaparilla remedies could well "cure" the "lassitude, debility, and all disorders peculiar to the Spring" as advertised by Ayer’s.

"While the Deacon is explaining to 'Liza the merits of Ayer's Sarsaparilla, bear in mind that it is not a mixture of cheap or dangerous drugs, but a highly concentrated extract of the genuine Honduras Sarsaparilla and other choice medicinal roots, alterative, diuretic, and tonic; the same being united with the Iodides of Potassium and Iron, forming by far the most economical, safe and reliable blood-purifying medicine ever offered to the public."

The alcohol content of patent medicines was never divulged.

Parker’s Tonic, while claiming to be a "Stimulus to the body without intoxicating," was actually 41.6% (83 proof!) alcohol.

"Parker's Tonic. The great health and strength restorer. Cures coughs, consumption, asthma by rejuvenating the blood. Wonderful cures of rheumatism, nervousness and kidney complaint have made Parker's tonic popular."
The sickly invalid on the left says "Oh! that I had your health and appetite."
The fine figure of a man on the right, pouring himself a champagne glass of Parker's Tonic replies : "I was miserable as you until Parker's Tonic cured me. An occasional dose before eating keeps me well."