The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

PLASTER FOR A CHEST COLD

MAKE A HOT MIXTURE OF FLAXSEED AND LARD AND SPREAD IT ON THE CHEST.
THEN COVER THE BODY WITH A LINEN TOWEL OR WRAP.
ADDITIONAL BLANKETS SHOULD BE USED TO FURTHER INDUCE SWEATING.
THIS PLASTER WAS USED ESPECIALLY FOR CHILDREN
BECAUSE IT DID NOT BURN THEIR SKIN.

Submitter comment: INFORMANT'S MOTHER USED THIS WITH HER CHILDREN. (1900-1930).

Where learned: PENNSYLVANIA ; PITTSBURGH

Keyword(s): CHILDHOOD REMEDY