Medicine
In the early 1800's, most medicines were herbal. There were some inorganic compounds like mercury, but mostly herbs.
Later in the 19th century, medicines like painkillers were used, though there were still some other "remedies". In Tom Sawyer, Tom is administered a painkiller because he has been sick. He feeds it to the cat. Aunt Polly tries to "purify Tom's soul" by steam.
Medicine has come a long way. There are thousands of different medicines from painkillers to blood pressure medicines. The meds we use today are much more useful than medicines were back then.
Later in the 19th century, medicines like painkillers were used, though there were still some other "remedies". In Tom Sawyer, Tom is administered a painkiller because he has been sick. He feeds it to the cat. Aunt Polly tries to "purify Tom's soul" by steam.
Medicine has come a long way. There are thousands of different medicines from painkillers to blood pressure medicines. The meds we use today are much more useful than medicines were back then.