M999.70.23 | Castor Oil, National Drug & Chemical Co.of Can.Ltd.
Castor Oil, National Drug & Chemical Co.of Can.Ltd.
1900-1925, 20th century
8 x 3.3 cm
Gift of BCE Inc
M999.70.23
© McCord Museum
Description
Keywords: Bottle (16)
Keys to History
Castor oil, a potent laxative that can cause diarrhea, was a common household remedy for constipation, along with rhubarb syrups and pills. It was administered orally.
In the 19th century, physicians recommended it as a way to eliminate black bile and rebalance the bodily humours.
Some doctors used a clyster (enema) to eliminate black bile, injecting a large syringeful of liquid laxatives into the rectum. In earlier days, this treatment was administered by an apothecary's assistant.
References
Traité élémentaire de matière médicale et guide pratique des soeurs de charité de l'Asile de la Providence (Montreal: Imprimerie de la Providence, 1890), pp. 26-27.
D. Goulet, Le Commerce des maladies, (Quebec City: Institut québécois de recherche sur la culture, "Edmond De Nevers" series, 1987), p. 31.
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What
This elegant bottle originally contained castor oil, a popular, inexpensive laxative.
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Where
Castor oil was used widely in Canadian families. In some countries, castor oil plant leaves are applied topically to stimulate lactation in nursing mothers.
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When
In the 19th century, castor oil was especially recommended for women during pregnancy and following childbirth.
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Who
The National Drug & Chemical Company of Canada Limited of Toronto manufactured this bottle of castor oil.
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