atent
medicines were marketed in the 19th century as
cures for a host of diseases and ailments. Syrups,
stouts, bitters, and tonics claimed to cure
consumption, rheumatism, loss of appetite, and
rejuvenate weak constitutions. California Prune
Laxative, (#179, 1885), maintained that it was an
"effectual cure for constipation, the worst enemy
of mankind." Many of these patent medicines
contained alcohol or narcotics. Federal legislation
in the early 20th century required manufacturers to
list the ingredients and prohibited them from
making false promises about their products. This
nearly killed the entire industry.
atent
medicines were marketed in the 19th century as
cures for a host of diseases and ailments. Syrups,
stouts, bitters, and tonics claimed to cure
consumption, rheumatism, loss of appetite, and
rejuvenate weak constitutions. California Prune
Laxative, (#179, 1885), maintained that it was an
"effectual cure for constipation, the worst enemy
of mankind." Many of these patent medicines
contained alcohol or narcotics. Federal legislation
in the early 20th century required manufacturers to
list the ingredients and prohibited them from
making false promises about their products. This
nearly killed the entire industry.
